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.

Landscape of Dornoch beach on a sunny day with light wispy clouds and orange flowers in foreground
4th - 25th April 2026

Spring Highland Festival

Two weeks of fine food, whisky, heritage, golf, music, celebration and more!

Annual Highland Games

Always held on the first Friday of August, the Games are a must-see, featuring traditional Highland 'heavies', including tossing the caber. There's pipes, dancers, family races and more.

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.

Culture, 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

Foodies will find plenty to enjoy with the wealth of food and drink events in Dornoch. The Dornoch Whisky Festival is particularly popular, attracting whisky lovers from all over the world for tastings and masterclasses.

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.

Charity & Community

The community of Dornoch has a strong sense of purpose and giving. From monthly Town Tidies to fun fundraisers, there's always something to get involved with.

Interior of Dornoch Cathedral with stained glass windows and golden uplights
Music, Literature & Speakers

Dornoch Gatherings

An exciting calendar of dynamic cultural events held in Dornoch's iconic Cathedral. Enjoy an eclectic mix of music, literature and speakers from the Highlands.

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. In the spring, there's an Easter Egg Hunt, family fun day and farm visits to see the lambs. Summer is brimming with iconic events including the Highland Games and Agricultural Show. Autumn brings the lights of Guy Fawkes Night, the Cathedral illuminations and Dornoch's famous Whisky Festival. Winter sees Christmas lights transforms the town into a festive wonderland seasonal events and the renowned Hogmanay Street Party. These seasonal celebrations in the Highlands showcase Dornoch's community spirit and provide a perfect excuse to visit throughout the year.