Arcadia Scotland

Art and Culture

Born and Baptised: Beginning 12 December, Aberdeen Maritime Museum
A variety of objects and paintings showing the changing nature and importance of birth and baptism in society.

Dick Whittington and His Cat: 5-19 December, The Tivoli Theatre, Various Times
After Dick Whittington and his cat make the decision to flee to London to make their fortune, things take a turn for the worse. They jump aboard a boat to begin their new life, but it ends up shipwrecked in a most bizarre place. Come along to find out if they can ever make it back home.

Peter Pan: Throughout December, His Majesty's Theatre
Aberdeen Academy of Performing Arts & Qdos Pantomimes bring JM Barrie's tale of childhood adventure and escapism to life.

Music, Comedy and Dance

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers: 5 December, Music Hall, 7:30pm
A unique brand of 'bag rock' (that's bagpipes plus rock, if you were wondering) with stirring tunes and energetic performances. Expect everything from 'Flower of Scotland' to Coldplay's 'Clocks', via AC/DC and Deep Purple.

Aberdeen Choral Society: Handel's Messiah: 15 December, Music Hall, 7:15pm
Over 120 voices give life to the composition that has come to be a Christmas staple.

BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra: Christmas Classics: 18 October, Music Hall, 7:30pm
Jamie MacDougall, BBC Radio Scotland presenter and renowned tenor, returns with seasonal orchestral pieces, popular carols, and the BBC SSO for what is always one of the most popular events of the season.

Phil Cunningham's Christmas Songbook: 21 December, Music Hall, 7:30pm
One of the masters of Scottish contemporary folk is joined by a selection of special guests (including Eddi Reader, Karen Mathieson, John McCusker, Kris Drever and Ian Carr) for a showcase of modern and traditional Christmas music.

Lectures, Sports and Local Festivals

Aberdeen Christmas Village: Throughout December, Union Gardens
A winter wonderland comprising of a German style Christmas market, an ice-rink in the pocket park of His Majesty's Theatre, funfair rides and an entertainment marquee showcasing North-East bands and comedians.

Aberdeen Parkrun: Saturdays, Beach Esplanade, 9:30am
An informal weekly 5k run along the Beach Esplanade. Everyone is welcome, no matter how fast or slow (you're welcome to walk the route, bring your dog or push a buggy), so you can use it as a one-off fitness test, a chance to get some fresh air or come every week to try to beat your personal best time.

Aberdeen Winter Festival: Throughout December, Various venues and times
Aberdeen City hosts a range of festive events and activities to get your bells a-jingling this winter, with markets, concerts, pantos, exhibitions and entertainment to see you through the winter months.

Aberdeen's Hogmanay: 31 December, Various Venues
Popular and exciting Hogmanay street party with live music.