5 days ago
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- Daily Record
Scotland's top 10 unique summer 2025 events including music and food festivals
From the Borders Book Festival to Kelburn Garden Party, there's plenty to keep Scots busy in summer
Now that June has begun, festival season in Scotland has officially started. From food fairs to music festivals, summertime is jam-packed in Scotland.
Over the coming months, there will be one-of-a-kind festivals taking place in every corner of the country. Whether you are in the Scottish Borders or the Outer Hebrides, you won't be far from at least one—and they are all worth travelling for too.
In honour of the beginning of summer, VisitScotland has rounded up 10 of the best unique events taking place across the country between June and September. Book festivals, live music by the sea, and dog shows with a twist are just a few of the highlights.
Read on for 10 one-of-a-kind events in Scotland this summer. More information about each one can be found on the VisitScotland website.
Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival, 1-28 June
All throughout June, the Outer Hebrides will be celebrating its one-of-a-kind wildlife and natural beauty through the community-led Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival. It will feature everything from guided walks and boat tours to nature writing workshops and Gaelic sessions.
According to VisitScotland, the Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's jaw-dropping landscapes. During the festival, you will have the opportunity to spot animals such as sea eagles, puffins, dolphins, and whales.
Borders Book Festival, 12-15 June 2025
Based at Harmony Garden in Melrose in the heart of the Scottish Borders, the Borders Book Festival is a four-day event dedicated to all things literary. The festival will be hosting more than 100 events, from author talks and comedy shows to a dedicated family book festival.
Whether you are a book fanatic or not, it is an absolute must-visit. Alongside the literary lineup, there will be health and wellbeing sessions, as well as live performances from talented local artists and musicians.
Leith Festival, 14-22 June 2025
Edinburgh's buzzy Leith district will be playing host to a week-long festival that dates all the way back to 1907. All about local pride and community, the Leith Festival is put on by and for the people of Leith.
Beginning with a Gala Day, the festival will feature a number of stalls from local makers and artists—as well as live music and even a dog show. During the week, there will be no shortage of opportunities to get involved.
East Neuk Festival, 25-29 June 2025
The East Neuk of Fife is widely regarded as one of Scotland's most picturesque regions. It features scenic villages and towns such as Crail, Anstruther, Kilrenny, St Monans, and Elie.
The East Neuk Festival will bring an eclectic lineup of music to Fife's chapels, halls and harbours. Throughout the week, classical, jazz, folk and experimental artists will all take to the stage.
Kelburn Garden Party, 3-7 July
Based in the magical grounds of a painted 13th-century castle along Scotland's west coast, Kelburn Garden Party is an arts festival unlike any other. The festival is an amazing blend of music, visual art, performance, and nature.
Easily accessed from Glasgow, the festival features hidden forest stages and fascinating installations. Each year, it brings together a loyal and diverse crowd from near and far.
Dornoch Beer and Music Festival, 26 July
Based in the scenic Sutherland town of Dornoch, the Dornoch Beer and Music Festival brings together music, family fun, and of course craft beer. There will be more than 100 beers and ciders on tap, as well as lineup of live performances including the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
There will also be plenty for younger festival-goers to get up to. From bouncy castles to face painting, there will be fun for everyone.
Fringe by the Sea, 1-10 August 2025
Across 10 days at the start of August, Fringe by the Sea will bring approximately 250 events to the idyllic seaside town of North Berwick. Expect music, comedy, literature, film, family fun, and much more
Meanwhile, visitors to Fringe by the Sea will be able to enjoy some world-class cuisine at its Street Food Village. There will also be a Makers' Market, filled with crafts, local produce, and one-of-a-kind finds.
Galloway Country Fair, 9-10 August 2025
Based at the instantly recognisable pink Drumlanrig Castle, the Galloway Country Fair is ideal for those after something a bit different. The fair is also a great place to take part in some good old-fashioned outdoor fun.
Visitors to Galloway Country Fair can expect a blend of country sports, bird of prey displays, family-friendly activities, and much more. Among the highlights will be an entertaining show starring skilled dogs and a team of determined Indian Runner ducks.
Rising North Festival, 15-17 August
Rising North Festival will return to Shetland this August with an even bigger programme all about homegrown talent and live music. The festivities will kick off in Lerwick on Thursday, before building up to two nights of action at Clickimin Leisure Centre.
The 2025 lineup for Rising North Festival will include rising Scottish star Callum Beattie, as well as whole host of talented local artists. The festival will wrap up with a laid-back finale at the Mareel multi-purpose entertainment venue on the Sunday.
Stranraer Oyster Festival, 12-14 September 2025
Finally, the Stranraer Oyster Festival will wrap up the summer with a jam-packed weekend. There will be tasty food, local culture, and lots for families to enjoy.
Dedicated to seafood and coastal culture, the main highlight will be the Scottish Oyster Shucking Championships. However, there will also be live cooking demos from top chefs, music, markets, and more.
