October 2026 Newsletter
North-east Scotland Tourism Conference
The North-east Scotland Tourism Conference in association with Aberdeen International Airport will bring the sector together to consider what regional tourism could look like in 2036.
As VisitAberdeenshire marks 10 years, we'll reflect on change and look ahead to opportunities and challenges across visitor trends, transport, workforce development, accessibility, events and regional growth.
The future of tourism isn't something that happens to us. It's something we help shape. So don't miss out on being part of the conversation at P&J Live, Aberdeen, on Wednesday 4 November.
Thistle Award win for the Welcome to Aberdeenshire volunteer programmeÂ
Tourism businesses from across the North-east were celebrated at the annual Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards, with the Welcome to Aberdeenshire volunteer programme winning Best Community Tourism & Events Initiative. This growing initiative, driven by VA's Fiona Douglas, and made possible with the kind support of Peterson Energies and Port of Aberdeen has enhanced thousands of visitor experiences since its inception, strengthening positive perceptions of our region.
We're excited to represent the region at the Scottish Thistle Awards in November.
Taste of Buchan, an annual pupil-led food and drink festival created through a partnership with VisitAberdeenshire and Peterhead Academy, was also recognised as a finalist in the same category. A truly community focussed event which has grown year on year, returns in 2027 for its fourth year.
Our congratulations go to every finalist, and to the winners.
Media Getaway - A major travel media event is coming to Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire in June 2027. Get involved!
Media Getaway is an annual travel media networking event. It brings together travel journalists from across the UK and Ireland with destination representatives from a range of UK, European and US destinations to network, pitch, and commission travel stories. The 2026 edition took place in Newcastle and attracted approx. 100 media representatives.
As host, VisitAberdeenshire will curate and deliver a site visit programme on 16 June for the media delegates, which is an opportunity for tourism businesses across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire to get involved.
We anticipate that approx. five different full day itineraries will be developed, allowing visiting journalists to experience many aspects of our region. These itineraries may be thematic, or geographic, taking into account logistics and known interests among delegates.
At this early stage of planning, we are inviting expressions of interest from local tourism businesses who wish to benefit from exposure to UK travel writers by taking part in the site visit programme.
To find out more please go to Media Getaway 2027.
Festive Advertising Opportunities
Put your business in front of an engaged audience looking for inspiration for Christmas getaways, holiday celebrations, and New Year experiences.
Our tailored advertising packages place your brand where it matters most across high performing digital channels with an engaged local and visitor audience.
Whether you're promoting festive gifts, seasonal menus, party nights, or winter experiences & offers, we can help your business shine this festive season.
Creating winter experiences for 2026-27
Winter presents a valuable opportunity to attract visitors during quieter months, from dark sky experiences and scenic walks to cosy retreats, festive events and vibrant city nightlife. By developing seasonal experiences and packages, businesses can encourage longer stays and boost year-round visitation.
Our Business Community website offers practical guidance, ideas and resources to help you create and market compelling winter experiences, connect your existing offer to seasonal themes, and make the most of winter tourism opportunities across the region.
Explore the resources on our Business Community website or email industry@visitabdn.com to arrange a one-to-one with the Tourism Development Team.
News from other organistations
Aberdeenshire restaurant weeks 2026
Aberdeenshire restaurant weeks are back from 2-15 November and registration is open for restaurants, cafes, or bars to participate. Restaurant Weeks will once again feature special menus, deals, and discounts designed to attract locals and visitors alike - giving diners a great reason to explore the region's culinary hotspots.
Businesses are invited to submit their offers by 16 October.
Regional Events Industry Engagement Workshop - Aberdeen City & Shire
VisitScotland is working with Local Authorities and other key industry partners to deliver a series of in-person Regional Event Industry Engagement Workshops across the country from October 2026 to March 2027. These workshops provide an important opportunity for local industry representatives to hear updates from key sector partners, plus share good practice and feedback on their experience of event development and delivery in the area.
There is no charge to attend this workshop, but registration in advance is required. Further information and final details will then be emailed directly to registered attendees.
Date and venue:
Maritime Museum, Aberdeen, Tuesday 27 October 2026, 10am-12:30pm
VisitScotland Connect 2027 Registration Open
Registration for VisitScotland Connect 2027 is now open.
VisitScotland's flagship travel trade event will take place on 14 -15 April at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) in Glasgow. The event provides Scottish tourism businesses with an opportunity to showcase their products and services, make connections with domestic and international travel trade and grow their business potential.
Please apply to attend the event via the registration link below. All applications are subject to approval by VisitScotland.
STA Business & Industry Survey 2026
The Scottish Tourism Alliance (STA) have launched their Industry and Business Survey. This is your chance to tell the STA what you think about its role and priorities, and to help shape what it focuses on next. We encourage business owners, CEOs, MDs, senior managers and employees across all parts of Scotland's tourism and hospitality industry, along with those in the wider supply chain to have their say.
Survey closes on 1 November.
Digital transformation support
Scottish Enterprise provides free and impartial advice on all aspects of digital technologies, including AI Scotland, improving your business processes, leveraging data for growth, and implementing business systems.
Adopting digital technology offers significant benefits for your business, such as Improving efficiency and making your business more profitable and resilient.
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Your go-to resource for the latest news, insights and updates for tourism and hospitality businesses across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Stay informed about events, workshops and opportunities to help your business thrive in the region’s vibrant visitor economy.
