Posts for January, 2026

We’re delighted to announce a special performance by The Farmers Choir at the Macdonald Aviemore Resort on Saturday 28 February 2026, raising vital funds for RSABI and SAYFC, with 50% of net ticket sales supporting the Big Build initiative.

The Farmers Choir was formed in September 2013, following a call for past and present members of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) to take part in its 75th Anniversary Concert in Glasgow. On 30 November 2013, when members took to the stage at the Hydro Arena, in what was initially expected to be a one-off performance. Instead, it marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

Since then, the choir has continued to grow, performing at events across Scotland — including regular appearances at the Royal Highland Show — and bringing together voices from across rural communities including Ayrshire, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Campbeltown, Dumfries & Galloway, Fife, Lanarkshire, Loch Lomond and Perthshire. Through music, the choir celebrates rural life while fostering connection, friendship, and raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing in agriculture.

Hosted by farmer and comedian Jim Smith, this uplifting evening promises music, laughter, and a strong sense of community spirit. With over 80 choir members from across rural Scotland, audiences can expect well-loved cover songs that lift hearts, spark conversation, and highlight the importance of looking after one another within the farming community.

Renowned master of the fiddle including the “Strathspey” genre, Paul Anderson invites traditional musicians to join in a mentored session from 7.15pm to 8.15pm (£10 per player) followed by the popular open session in the bar from 8.30pm to 10pm (free to all).

Immerse yourself in creative fun for a morning of nature painting with Ellie Dimambro-Denson.

In 2024, Ellie challenged herself to walk 250 kilometres across the Cairngorms Connect partnership: the UK’s biggest habitat restoration project and 600 square kilometres of ancient forest, peaty bog, and magnificent mountains.

On her journey she captured her experiences in beautiful watercolour, using natural pigments she made herself from the plants that grow within the landscape.

Join us at the Loch Garten Nature Centre for a beginner’s workshop on the world of wild watercolours:

~ Get an introduction to making paint pigments from nature

~ Learn tips & tricks on how best to capture your favourite scenes through watercolour

~ Enjoy the mindfulness and peace of painting in an ancient forest location

This workshop is for beginners but all abilities are welcome!

This is an indoor event at the Loch Garten Nature Centre but please bring warm layers in case you feel inclined to take inspiration directly from the outdoors! The centre is a short, 3-4 minute walk from the car park over even ground, however if you require further assistance, an all-terrain wheelchair is available to use for free. Please contact us in advance if required.

Royal Deeside’s annual art exhibition, featuring the artwork of around 40 artists from across the North East and Cairngorms, working in a variety of mediums. Exhibition includes original paintings, drawings, jewellery and sculpture as well as prints and cards.

Open daily in Aboyne’s Victory Hall 10am-6pm between July 11th and August 1st 2026. Find out more on our website and Instagram/Facebook @artaboyne.

Designed for families, this uplifting session invites adults and children to step into the world of Oz and learn some fun dance routines set to the songs we know and love from the films.

From the sparkle of Glinda to the power of Elphaba, this workshop celebrates friendship, confidence and finding your own kind of magic!

Suitable for age 5+. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Treat Mum to a Special Afternoon

This Mother’s Day, show your appreciation with a delightful afternoon tea experience. Indulge in a carefully crafted selection of:

● Freshly brewed teas
● Warm scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam
● A variety of finger sandwiches
● Delicious cakes and pastries

Date: 15th March 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

For an extra touch of elegance, add a glass of prosecco to your treat.

Limited Availability – Book Now!

Make this Mother’s Day truly memorable. Reserve your table today and treat Mum to an unforgettable afternoon tea in our charming and relaxed setting.

Available 23th – 25th January 2026

Is there a better place to celebrate Burns night than in the Highlands of Scotland?

Experience a taste of the Scottish Highlands this Burns Weekend at the Cairngorm Hotel Aviemore.

Our special menu features locally sourced, seasonal dishes bursting with flavour, from Scottish salmon and black pudding scotch eff and, of course, the classic Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties to a twist on our classic Sundae.

Why not make a night of it and stay over.

Treat your loved one to a romantic meal for Valentine’s weekend at The Boat Country Inn near Aviemore.

Our special Valentine’s Menu is available from Friday 13th to Sunday 15th February 2026.

Spaces for Valentines are limited. Secure your table reservation today and treat yourself and your loved one to an exceptional Valentines meal!

Join us for Valentine’s weekend and get away from it all for a romantic break

Is there a better place to celebrate Burns night than in the Highlands of Scotland?


Experience a taste of the Scottish Highlands this Burns Night at The Boat Country Inn.

Our special menu features locally sourced, seasonal dishes bursting with flavour, from tasty mushrooms to Scottish salmon and, of course, the classic Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties.

Get ready to zig-a-zig-ah! This fun, family-friendly dance workshop invites adults and children to learn energetic routines inspired by the iconic Spice Girls. From “Wannabe” to “Spice Up Your Life,” you’ll dance, laugh, and celebrate friendship, confidence, and teamwork – just like the Spice Girls themselves!

Everyone is welcome! No dance experience is needed, this workshop is all about having fun, moving to the music and enjoying a shared family experience.

“Say you’ll be there” and grab your tickets now!