Discover Exciting Events in Dornoch:

Your Guide to Local Happenings

Welcome to your ultimate guide to events in Dornoch, where you can discover everything happening in this wonderful North Highland town. Dornoch is known for its vibrant community spirit and rich cultural heritage, making it the perfect destination for both residents and visitors looking for unique experiences. One of the highlights of the events in Dornoch calendar is the array of annual festivals and celebrations that bring the community together. Whether you’re interested in music, arts, food, or seasonal festivities, there’s always something exciting on the horizon in Dornoch.

Highland friendship week, Dornoch, 1200x960
23rd October - 5th November 2025

Highland Friendship Fortnight

Join us for two weeks of celebration, with food, whisky, heritage, golf, music and more!
Annual Festivals and Celebrations

Annual Festivals and Celebrations

The Dornoch Highland Games, always held on the first Friday of August, is a must-see, featuring traditional Highland 'heavy' games, including tossing the caber. There's music, dance, family races and more.

Annual County Show

Annual County Show

The Sutherland Show is another key event, showcasing local agriculture, crafts, and food. It’s a great day out and includes livestock displays, horse riding competitions, and a variety of stalls selling local produce and crafts.

Music and Arts

Music and Arts

Events in Dornoch include a variety of exhibitions and performances. Dornoch Cathedral frequently hosts concerts and choral performances that take advantage of its stunning acoustics, whilst exhibitions showcase both local and national artists.

Food and Drink

Food and Drink

Foodies will find plenty to enjoy with various food and drink events in Dornoch. The town’s restaurants and cafes regularly host special dining menus, and seasonal celebrations. The Dornoch Whisky Festival is particularly popular, attracting whisky lovers from all over the world. for tastings and masterclasses.

Family-Friendly Activities

Family-Friendly Activities

Dornoch is a family-friendly destination with a variety of events that cater to all ages such as the Bonfire Night celebration and summer Festival Week, providing fun activities for families to enjoy.

Seasonal Fireworks Celebrations Dornoch

Seasonal Celebrations in the Highlands

Dornoch is also home to enchanting seasonal celebrations in the Highlands, making it a magical place to visit year-round. The Christmas Market transforms the town into a winter wonderland with festive lights, markets, and a visit from Santa Claus. In the spring, an Easter Egg Hunt and lambing events attracts families for a day of fun and adventure.

Autumn brings the Harvest Festival, celebrating local produce with farmers’ markets, cooking demonstrations, and community feasts. These seasonal celebrations in the Highlands showcase the town’s community spirit and provide a perfect excuse to visit Dornoch throughout the year.

The Sutherland Show
Closed

The Sutherland Show

Sutherland's annual agricultural show
Community Markets
Open

Community Markets

Selected Wednesdays from May - Sept
Dornoch Highland Gathering
Open

Dornoch Highland Gathering

First Friday of August (1st August 2025)
Dornoch Pipe Band
Open

Dornoch Pipe Band

8pm Saturday, end of May to September
East Sutherland Rotary Classic Car Tour
Open
Festival Week
Open

Festival Week

2nd - 9th August 2025
Fibre Fest
Open

Fibre Fest

15th & 16th March 2025
New Year Hogmanay Celebrations
Open

New Year Hogmanay Celebrations

31st December & 1st January
Dornoch Whisky Festival
Open

Dornoch Whisky Festival

24th - 26th October 2025
Bonfire Night
Open

Bonfire Night

Wednesday 5th November 2025
Christmas Outdoor Market
Open

Christmas Outdoor Market

Saturday 30th November 2024
St Andrew’s Fair & Christmas Markets
Open

St Andrew’s Fair & Christmas Markets

Saturday 30th November 2024