Everything you need to know about open-top bus parade to celebrate Aberdeen's Scottish Cup glory

Press and Journal

24-05-2025

Aberdeen Football Club will celebrate their sensational Scottish Cup triumph with a historic open-top bus parade through the Granite City tomorrow (Sunday).
The Dons clinched the trophy with a thrilling penalty shoot-out victory over Celtic at Hampden, and the club are now inviting fans to join in the celebrations and mark one of the most memorable moments in recent club history.
The parade will begin at noon from Albyn Place, where thousands of supporters are expected to gather early to catch a glimpse of their heroes boarding the open-top bus.
From there, the route will take the team and coaching staff through key city landmarks, offering fans plenty of chances to see the cup and cheer on the squad.
It will travel down Union Street, turning left at Union Terrace, then right at Schoolhill, before turning on to Broad Street.
Aberdeen will then disembark for a civic reception at the city's Townhouse.
City centre roads are expected to be closed temporarily to accommodate the festivities – and the council has advised residents and visitors to plan ahead.
Club captain Graeme Shinnie, who lifted the trophy at Hampden Park, said the team were overwhelmed by the support in Glasgow and were excited to share the moment with the people of Aberdeen.
He said: 'This victory was for everyone associated with the club — the fans, the staff, the city,' he said. 'We can't wait to celebrate together.'
Aberdeen's Scottish Cup victory marks their first major silverware in nearly a decade – and their first Scottish Cup in 35 years – and has reignited excitement across the north-east.
The team's spirited performance in the final has been widely praised, with manager Jimmy Thelin hailing his squad's determination and resilience.
Local businesses are also joining in the celebrations, with shops and cafes along the parade route decorating their windows in red and white.
Many are expected to open early or extend their hours to accommodate the influx of fans.
The club has encouraged supporters to wear red and bring flags and banners to create a sea of colour throughout the city.
They have also urged everyone attending to respect public spaces and follow guidance from event stewards and police.
Tomorrow's parade promises to be a landmark moment for Aberdeen FC and supporters — a celebration of football, community and shared pride in a team that brought glory back to the city.
Aberdeen City Council said: 'Following Aberdeen Football Club's win over Celtic in the Scottish Cup Final on Saturday 24 May, a victory parade will take place on Sunday 25 May.
'Supporters will be able to watch the open-top bus parade as it makes its way to Aberdeen Town House, led by Texo Deeside Caledonia pipe band.
'The parade will begin at 12noon at Albyn Place, following Union Street, Union Terrace, Schoolhill and Broad Street, and will finish at Aberdeen Town House, where the first team players will make a balcony appearance with Aberdeen Lord Provost, Dr David Cameron.
'Please remember to remain on the pavements at all times to allow the parade to pass safely. Do not climb on structures or put yourself or others in danger.'