Five Festive things to do this Winter in Aberdeenshire
From Fireworks to Fireballs, there’s plenty to warm you up this winter, and we’ve rounded up our five favourite festive things for you to do around Aberdeenshire. Grab your Glühwein and put on your mittens, it might be cold outside but there’s plenty of fun to be had.
Aberdeen Christmas VillageUnion TerraceFriday 25 November 2016 - Sunday 8 January 2017
We might be cheating a little with this one because there’s so much on at this winter wonderland. From an open-air ice rink, to a festive fairground there’s something for all, big kids or small.
There’s also choral performances under the ‘Moose Marquee’ and traditional themed chalets with a host of hand-crafted chocolates, decorations and toys, and all the winter food you could want, from hot chocolate to hot donuts and of course mulled wine.
The Christmas Village is open right up until the 8th January, giving you plenty time to get into the spirit.
Carol ConcertDuthie Park Winter GardensSaturday 17 December 2016
Set in the stunning winter gardens, the Bon Accord Silver Band and singers will accompany you to sing your favourite carols, with performances at 11am and 2pm. The Friends of Duthie Park will be running a raffle on behalf of CFine Food Appeal and Food Poverty Action Aberdeen. To enter the raffle just pop along with any tinned, packaged or jars of food, as well as toiletries and everyday staples like teabags, coffee, sugar. All donations big or small are welcome, and will be distributed to those who need a bit of extra help at Christmas.
‘Nipper Dipper’ Boxing Day DipBeach Leisure CentreMonday 26December 2016 - 10:30am
If you’re in need of a wake-up call after the festivities of the day before, a chilly Boxing Day dip can help, and raise a bit of money for charity in the process.
Take the splash solo or in teams and raise funds for The Lord Provost’s Charitable Trust, as well as your own nominated charity. You can even be one of the many in fancy dress, with previous participants showing up in rubber duck costumes!
The Stonehaven Fireballs Ceremony High StreetSaturday 31December, 2016 - 10:30pm
Swap Fireworks for Fireballs at The Stonehaven Fireballs Ceremony this Hogmanay. The parade of Fireball Swingers starts as the bells of the old Town House strike midnight, where the performers lead the parade to the harbour, giving the New Year a little hand and a very warm welcome.
Look to the south after the ceremony ends to catch some spectacular fireworks above the harbour. The whole ceremony is completely free of charge, allow extra time if you’re bringing your car.
Gig at the BrigMarket Street, EllonSaturday 31December, 2016 - 8pm
If music is more your thing to bring in the bells, Ellon’s Market Street brings you a Hogmanay party to remember. Music comes from Abbamania, Emerald Sunday and Gleadriach to help you dance your way into 2017. Enjoy some local produce with Deesidedly Tasty’s hog roast as well as a selection of hot and cold drinks on-site.
Local Buchan Hotel also offers a special Hogmanay meal deal upon producing your ticket for the event too, so you can enter the new year with a full belly and plenty of cheer.
However you celebrate the festive season this year, there’s fun to be had for all the family in Aberdeenshire.