When visiting Aberdeen in August, check out the Royal Highland Gathering in Braemar, near Balmoral Castle. Rub shoulders with British royalty at the most famous Highland Games -- a celebration of Scottish culture including tourist favorites like men in kilts and bagpipes. The two-hour bus journey from Aberdeen to Braemar runs six times a day.
If based in Glasgow, try a side-trip to the Cowal Highland Gathering. Events include the World Highland Dancing Championships and the Cowal Pipe Band Championships in addition to other traditional Highland Games. Citylink and National Express run buses from Glasgow to Dunoon, or take the train from Glasgow to Gourock Pier, then catch a ferry across the Firth of Clyde.
During August, Edinburgh plays host to some of the biggest festivals in the world. Accommodation should be booked well in advance, but last-minute travelers can try the following options: Edinburgh & Lothians Tourist Board , The Festival Partnership , or Factotum.
Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival
July - August (every year)
Edinburgh, Scotland
Oldest jazz festival in the UK brings together top performers in venues all over the city.
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Edinburgh, Scotland
August (every year)
Magnificent outdoor display at Edinburgh Castle featuring marching bands, pipes, drums, and military re-enactments.
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Edinburgh, Scotland
August (every year)
The largest arts festival in the world.
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Edinburgh, Scotland
August (every year)
The world’s biggest literary festivals in the English-speaking world.
Edinburgh International Festival
Edinburgh, Scotland
August - September (every year)
The finest in classical music, opera, theater and dance.
Edinburgh International Film Festival
Edinburgh, Scotland
August (every year)
The world's oldest continually-running film festival.
Edinburgh Mela
Edinburgh, Scotland
September (every year)
Scotland's biggest multicultural festival features music, dance, art, fashion, food, and children's activities.
