Eight festive experiences not to miss this season in Aberdeenshire
1 December 2023
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and to celebrate, we’ve curated a list of eight festive experiences to make 2023 a special one. From classic festive activities such as pantomimes and Christmas markets to the delicious dining inspiration, it’s all here in Aberdeenshire this year.
Explore Aberdeen Christmas Village
With an array of festive fun, Aberdeen Christmas Village delivered by Codona’s, Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeen Inspired is not one to be missed. Featuring thrilling fairground rides, an outdoor ice-skating rink and delicious festive food and drink, it’s an experience fit for all the family.
So, grab your loved ones, it’s time for a merry mulled wine, running until 31 December.
For more information click here.
Enjoy some festive crafting
Fancy creating some handmade Christmas decorations this year? There’s a whole host of events perfect for bringing out your inner artist. From Lino printed cards and Christmas star garland making, to wild winter wreath making, The Barn in Banchory has you covered. For more craft events check out the What’s On page.
Head to Curated in the Quad
No festive season is complete without a visit to the Christmas Markets and Curated in the Quad offers a delightful mix of local gifts and goodies. From the stunning tastes of Lost Loch Spirits to the beautiful, handcrafted accessories of Jade Elizabeth Designs, the perfect one-of-a-kind gift is waiting to be discovered. Open every weekend from now until 23 December, it’s the perfect festive outing.
For more information click here.
Attend a Christmas concert
Do you love Christmas music? With sing-along carols, and festive melodies aplenty Aberdeenshire’s range of festive music performances are perfect to create a little Christmas cheer with your family. Why not check out The Music Hall’s Christmas Concert: The Snowman, or head along to Banff Castle for A Candlelit Christmas evening.?
Take a visit to the theatre
What better Christmas activity than a trip to the theatre for a pantomime. With laugh out loud comedy and stunning musical performances it’s an activity suited for families of all ages. This year’s line-up of productions does not disappoint, including Fairytale of New York at the Music Hall, Sleeping Beauty at His Majesty’s Theatre, Beauty and the Beast at The Tivoli Theatre and Peter Pan at P&J Live.
Experience some tantalising cuisine
The ultimate festive feast is waiting in Aberdeenshire. From locally reared turkey and all the trimmings to cheese boards and Christmas pudding, the region’s festive menus are sure to tickle the tastebuds. With a whole host of venues putting on Christmas treats, including The Albyn, Moonfish Café, Porterhouse Steakhouse and Douneside House, you will be spoilt for choice.
Indulge in a festive tipple or two
Whether you are after a cosy country pub with family or looking to party into the small hours, with venues aplenty, the North-east has you covered. Why not opt for the intimate and ambient atmosphere of The Tippling House, sipping on the cocktails curated to perfection or take a visit to Common Sense Coffee House and Bar, where on 5 December, they will be hosting Festive Canapes and Christmas Wines with Aberdeen Local Wine School (check out its website, where they will be hosting an array of Christmas events across the region!). For more inspiration on places to visit for a festive tipple check out our website.
Treat yourself to a festive stay
Turn your festive day or evening into a trip to remember with a stay at one of our many welcoming accommodation options across the region. Whether it’s the traditional stylings of the delightful riverside, Boat Inn, located in the heart of Royal Deeside, where guests can relax in comfort by a log fire, or you fancy a quirky and unique experience like Glen Dye Cabins or Sweet Donside Cabins, the region does not disappoint. Want something in the city? With hotels aplenty, including The Sandman Signature Hotel and The Chester Hotel, you will wake up feeling refreshed and ready for day two.
We hope your festivities are filled with joy, this is a small selection of the experiences across the region, for more information about events happening in the lead up to Christmas, visit the What’s On page.
All information is correct at the time of publishing, we recommend that you check opening times and information for individual places before visiting.