Top Scottish Events of 2024

Plan with our guide for things to do in Scotland in 2024

If you’re planning and looking for some fun things to do in Scotland next year, the country bursting with events. Rich in history, heritage, food, drink and culture. Our Scottish towns, cities and countryside have something for everyone. From exploring ancient castles and hiking in the Highlands, to dancing at Scottish festivals and sampling our cuisine, you’ll be spoilt for choice. So, here’s our guide to some of the best things to do in Scotland in 2024.

Warm up at Parliament House Hotel

What better way to kick-start your new year than a trip away to Edinburgh in Scotland? After the celebrations of Christmas and New Year, why not continue the festivities a little longer with a stay at Parliament House Hotel? Our Winter Warmer offer is perfect if you’re looking to escape the January blues and enjoy some time away. Start out with our delicious hearty Scottish breakfast, before exploring Edinburgh’s nearby sights and attractions. Then, take a short stroll back into town and watch a theatre show or concert.

Book a Winter Warmer break.

Edinburgh city at sunset on a winters day from Calton Hill
Watch the sunset from Calton Hill, on a winter’s evening in Edinburgh.

Burns Night Festivities 

There’s nothing more traditionally Scottish than celebrating Burns Night in Scotland. Across the country, many venues will be commemorating the birth of the Scottish poet Robert Burns on or around 25th January. Enjoy a Burns Night dinner, toast the poet’s life with a wee dram of local whisky, or dance the Highland Fling into the small hours. 

Find a Burns Night event.

Haggis, neeps, tatties and whisky
A traditional Burns Supper includes haggis, neeps, tatties and a nip of whisky.

Highland Games

The Highland Games is a highlight in the Scottish calendar and must be added to your list of things to do in Scotland. Dating to the 11th century, the Highland Games originated when King Malcolm III called a race to find the fastest man to be his courier. Now, the games have become a test of strength and endurance, but they are full of entertainment and fun activities. Here, you’ll find traditional Scottish pipe music and dancing, delicious feasts, heritage events and activities for all ages.

Find a Highland Games event.

Traditional scottish Highland dancing.
The Highland Games is an important part of Scottish culture and tradition.

Music Festivals

All across Scotland, festivals celebrate a wide range of musical genres. From traditional music festivals, such as Glasgow’s Celtic Connections and the Shetland Folk Festival, to contemporary music at the Edinburgh Summer Sessions and the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival. Fans of jazz and blues will not be disappointed, with the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival and the Callendar Jazz and Blues Festival. While rockers can rock out at Let’s Rock Scotland and BonFest. Whatever your jam, there’s something for you.

Find a music festival.

Musician playing guitar on stage.
Enjoy live music and concerts at a wide variety of music festivals across Scotland.

Golf events

Scotland is the home of golf, and we have over 550 golf courses! Our country also hosts some of the best golf tournaments in the world! So if you want to see some of the best golfers in action, Scotland is the place to be. Prestigious tournaments include The Scottish Open, the AIG Women’s Open and the Women’s Scottish Open.

Find a golf event.

woman putting golf ball on tee with club in golf course outdoors.
Scotland, the home of golf.

Celebrate Hogmanay

As the year ends, where better to celebrate than with a traditional Hogmanay hooley? Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is Scotland’s biggest New Year event, as thousands flock to the city to ring in the new year. Other top Hogmanay celebrations include Inverness’s Red Hot Highland Fling and the spectacular Stonehaven Fireballs.

Find a Hogmanay event.

The castle of Edinburgh with fireworks during Hogmanay.
Fireworks illuminate the sky over Edinburgh Castle during the annual Hogmanay celebrations.

So, if you’re planning things to do in 2024, make sure a visit to Scotland is at the top of your list. Here, you’ll find culture, history, breathtaking natural scenery, delicious cuisine, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Start planning your 2024 adventures in Scotland today.