Skotoberfest at Castle Fraser in Aberdeenshire to take place this weekend - all you need to know
Just days remain until the north-east’s newest festival takes over the historic grounds of Castle Fraser in Aberdeenshire.
All-day event Skotoberfest - taking place on Saturday, October 11 - will offer visitors a packed day of entertainment, music and a stacked street food line-up.
The family-friendly festival, organised by Your Vibe Events, promises to be one of the highlights of the autumn calendar, offering something to keep everyone entertained.
Two stages of live performances will provide a bustling festival atmosphere, there are children’s amusements and, of course, that mouth-watering choice of food and drink.
From Edelwurst Catering’s authentic German sausages to the bold spices of Qismat Indian Streetfood, and from Seafood Bothie’s fresh coastal flavours to the gamey delights of Screaming Peacock, the food line-up is designed to offer something for everyone.
Other highlights include The Chilli Man Ltd with fiery creations, the ever-popular Moray Hog Roast Company, Shipyard Street Food, and woodfired slices from Fired Up Pizza.
Treats won’t be forgotten either, with Popseys Doughnuts, Emma’s Fancy Wee Piece, Daily Grind Coffee, and Miele’s Gelateria ensuring there’s plenty to tempt those with a sweet tooth.
To wash it all down, The Tinkle Tap Bar will be on hand throughout the day, serving a wide selection of drinks at capped prices.
The music begins at 11am and runs right the way through until 10.30pm.
Playing on the day are: Turriff Silver Oompah Band; Annie Lennox by Shona McVey; Aberdeenshire Saxophone Orchestra; Monza Express; The Proclaimers by Broclaimers; Rock Choir; Dignity - the Deacon Blue experience and Broma. A surprise act is still due to be confirmed!
Mrs Bubbles and Mr Bubbles; The Heartwood Circus Project and Moray Flying Circus are just a few examples of the child-friendly entertainment on offer. There is also a bouncy castle, teacups, a climbing wall and bumper cars.
Adults can take on a sausage-eating contest (pre-book via Eventbrite), a hang bar challenge, darts and much more.
Given it’s October, the weather will also be considered! Organiser Kay Thomson added: “We want everyone to feel right at home at Skotoberfest.
“The Indian summer might still be with us, but as the nights draw in we’re turning up the cozy vibes.
“Think heated marquees to keep you toasty, glowing festival lights and beautiful tree up-lights around the field to make the whole place sparkle into the night.
“We will have it all going on.”
Organisers have emphasised that affordability is central to Skotoberfest’s ethos, making it possible for families to enjoy the event without breaking the bank.
A family ticket for Skotoberfest - for two adults and three children aged between five and 12 - is £60.
Individual tickets are £26 for adults, £24 for teenagers (13-17) and start at £12 for children aged between five and 12. Children under the age of five go for free. All kids tickets include a 50 per cent discount on a castle tour.
Organisers are offering a 10 per cent discount for blue light cardholders, students and over 60s, NFU and Young Farmers members and National Trust members.
For discounted tickets email yourvibe2010@gmail.com, while all other tickets can be bought at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/skotoberfest-tickets-1235416868109?aff=oddtdtcreator
Organisers are encouraging people to book in advance, as entry on the day cannot be guaranteed.
Travelling to and from the festival will be hassle-free thanks to Skotoberfest’s partnership with Premier Coaches.
A dedicated shuttle bus service will collect festivalgoers from Inverurie Town Hall, travelling to Castle Fraser via Kemnay (chip shop carpark) at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Return services from will run hourly from 6pm until the last bus at 10.30pm.
Return tickets are payable directly to the driver, priced at £10 for adults, £5 for under-16s, with under-5s travelling free.
Each passenger will be issued a wristband, ensuring easy access for the return journey and allowing festival-goers the peace of mind to enjoy their days.
Parking will also be available at Castle Fraser, manned by Alford Rotary Club. This will cost £2 and is available to pre-book through Eventbrite.
Full festival details are available at www.skotoberfest.com