The days may soon be getting shorter, but Scotland is the perfect stage for things to do this autumn. EventScotland, part of VisitScotland, supports a diverse and vibrant range of events taking place across the country; and with cultural celebrations, magical musical moments and sporting spectacles set for September and beyond, there’s something for everyone.

Sports fans have much to look forward to. Hot off the back of the Olympics Games, the Lloyds Bank Tour Of Britain Men – Stage One (3 September) is the opening stage of the UK’s biggest road race for cycling. Starting and finishing in Kelso, the 113-mile route takes in Coldstream, Gordon, Melrose, Denholm, Jedburgh and St Boswells. Up in the Inner Hebrides, Beatson’s Building Supplies Mull Rally (11–13 October) has grown from its origins as a road rally in 1969 to become an island-wide event across 140 miles of the beautiful Isle Of Mull. While those looking for a more agricultural pursuit have the 2024 International Sheep Dog Supreme Championships at Syde Farm, Biggar (12–14 September). Across three days, handlers will run 150 dogs across the course, hoping to progress to the International Supreme Championship Trial.

Nairn Book And Arts Festival (31 August–8 September) is an annual celebration of literature, art, music and drama hosted in the beautiful Highland town. Further north, the Aberdeen Mela (1 September) is a free, family-friendly multicultural celebration featuring world music, dance, activities for kids, food stalls and more. Later that month, Dundee Design Festival (23–29 September) is Scotland’s national celebration of contemporary design. Featuring 100 designers, the festival includes demonstrations, workshops and talks, all giving a unique insight into the work of Scottish and international designers and more, while exploring sustainable approaches, fresh ideas and fun activities in the ‘City Of Discovery’. Meanwhile, Gaelic language and culture is championed in Oban at the Royal National Mòd (11–19 October), featuring competitive disciplines across music and song, Highland dancing, drama, sport and literature. And then 2024's cultural season draws to a spectacular close with Edinburgh’s Hogmanay (29 December–1 January). While the lineup is still to be announced, this spectacular event, featuring a street party, outdoor concert and more, is always an absolute banger.

Connoisseurs of cuisine will enjoy the Stranraer Oyster Festival (13–15 September). This family-friendly and environmentally conscious event features food workshops, watersports, the Scottish Oyster Shucking Championships, and music from Porkpie, Astoria and the Dangleberries.

There are numerous family-oriented events taking place across the autumn. In Gorebridge, Vogrie Pogrie (13–15 September) kicks things off with its festival of creativity and curious happenings. Across theatre, live music, circus, comedy, cabaret, crafts and more, expect to enjoy the work of 150 artists; and it’s free if you arrive by foot or bike. Findhorn Bay Festival (20–29 September) is a similarly multi-threaded event based on the themes of nature, connection and belonging. Meanwhile, Paisley Halloween Festival (25–26 October) celebrates that time of year with a spine-tingling programme of frights for the whole family, including special attractions and performances. Oban Winter Festival (15–24 November) is a great way to explore the town’s bars, restaurants, shops and distillery, and it incorporates the illumination of the Oban Christmas lights along with a market, reindeer parade and more. And finally, Monteviot Lights (5–21 December) is back for its second year. Embark on a magical after-dark journey through Monteviot Gardens on the Scottish Borders’ first winter light trail.

So whatever you fancy doing or seeing, Scotland is the perfect place to be.

Find out more about events taking place across the country on the VisitScotland site.

Main picture: Monteviot Lights.