Inverness is buzzing with exciting events in 2025!
Join us in Inverness, the beautiful capital of the Scottish Highlands! Inverness is buzzing with exciting events in 2025. Whether you’re a local or visiting Scotland on holiday from afar. Not to mention the abundance of free things to do in the Scottish Highlands, such as magnificent walking, hiking and cycling. And nature spotting or meeting some of our friendly Highland Cows. Our area is rich with castles, whiskey distilleries and so so much more for you to enjoy…
So, read on for your ultimate guide to must-attend happenings throughout 2025 in the Highlands.
Etape Loch Ness (April 27, 2025)
Cycling enthusiasts, gear up for the Etape Loch Ness! Whether you want to join in or spectate this fantastic event, a 66-mile race around the iconic circumference of Loch Ness. The Etape race starts at Bught Park, and passes many iconic locations, with stunning scenery. An annual opportunity for cyclists to challenge themselves whilst enjoying traffic-free roads around one of Scotland’s epic lochs. And if you are not taking part, after cheering on the cyclists, you can experience the wonders of this Scottish road trip by car yourself. Or if you want an adventure by foot, why not walk the LN360 trail?
The John Martyn Project (March 4, 2025)
Celebrate the music of folk legend John Martyn at the Eden Court Theatre. This tribute concert features a talented collective of musicians bringing the legend’s legacy to life. If you love folk music and acoustic sets, this is a must-see Scottish experience for you. The show will take you through some stunning interpretations of John Martyn’s iconic tracks, as well as some of his lesser-known tracks to deliver a fully immersive musical experience. Showing March 4, 2025, at 7:30 PM in the OneTouch Theatre at Eden Court, Inverness. Tickets are priced at £26.47
Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival (August 1–3, 2025)
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Belladrum is one of Scotland’s most beloved music festivals. Expect a mix of big-name acts, emerging talent, and family-friendly activities, all set amidst the picturesque Highland countryside. Each year comes with a unique theme and is famous for its good old friendly Scottish atmosphere. So come along and immerse yourself in the spirit of Scotland and this braw music festival.
Belladrumn also known as the Tartan Hearts Festival, enjoys a diverse lineup of music acts spanning many genres, along with family-friendly entertainment, art installations, and cultural activities. Book a camping pitch and immerse yourself for the entirety. Or pop out and stay in one of our many local hotels or magical self-caterers for a real Scottish experience.
Baxters Loch Ness Marathon (September 28, 2025)
Running enthusiasts won’t want to miss this internationally acclaimed marathon. The course takes runners through breathtaking Highland scenery, finishing at Bught Park with a festival atmosphere complete with live music and local food. Alongside the marathon, there are shorter runs like the River Ness 5K and Wee Nessie for all ages.
Inverness Highland Games (July 2025)
Celebrate Scottish culture at the annual Highland Games, featuring traditional athletic events, bagpipe music, and Highland dancing. This family-friendly event captures the spirit of the Highlands and offers plenty of fun for all ages.
Inverness Christmas Market (December 2025)
Get into the festive spirit with our Highland Captital’s charming Christmas Market! Here you can shop for local Scottish crafts, enjoy Scottish seasonal food and drinks, and experience the magical atmosphere of Christmas as Inverness lights up in festivities! A true festive highlight in the Scottish Highlands, the market draws locals and visitors from far afield with its charming mix of seasonal delights. Held annually in the heart of Inveness near the Castle. Shop from the array of traditional wooden stalls and handcrafted gifts, unique decorations, and trEAT yourself to some delicious festive treats. Not forgetting mulled wine, artisanal foods, and local wears, all within a friendly Scottish, festive atmosphere.
And for families, the Inveness Christmas market also often includes family-friendly activities, such as storytelling sessions in Santa’s Grotto and live music performances, making it a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Book your holidays to Inverness today!
Inverness offers a packed calendar of events in 2025 that cater to every interest—from sports and music to culture and family fun. For more details and updates, visit event-specific websites or check local listings to plan your Highland adventure.
As well as all of these events, Inverness is a wonderful city to just wander round, soaking up the history and enjoying the architecture. Or, you could go shopping at the Victorian Market or Eastgate shopping centre. How about a whisky distillery tour or maybe you fancy your chances as a Nessie hunter? Inverness has so much to offer you, make sure you visit soon! And in the meantime, here are some more things for you to enjoy:
