Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival has delivered a major economic boost to the Highlands and Scotland, with the 2025 event generating £11.2 million for the national economy, according to a new independent impact assessment.
The report shows the festival generated £7.8 million in net economic impact for the Highlands, reinforcing its role as both a cultural landmark and a key economic driver for the region.
Visitor spending directly linked to the festival totalled £5.6 million, representing money brought into the Highlands specifically because Belladrum took place.
When this spending circulated through local businesses, suppliers and employees, the total benefit rose to £7.8 million for the Highlands and £11.2 million across Scotland.
Belladrum 2025 supported the equivalent of 102 tourism related jobs in the Highlands, rising to 147 jobs across Scotland.
For a region where tourism employment is often seasonal, the report highlights the festival’s importance in supporting sustained economic activity.
The festival also continued its partnership with UHI, inviting students to apply for volunteer and hands on roles on site, building skills and experience through direct involvement in the event.
Almost half of attendees travelled from outside the Highland Council area, with more than three quarters citing Belladrum as their sole or main reason for visiting the region.
Beyond its measured economic impact, Belladrum 2025 generated more than £150,000 for local good causes through charity partnerships and ticket donations.
The report also notes that Belladrum’s economic impact has increased by 70% since 2014.
Festival Producer Dougie Brown said the results underline the value of working locally.
“It is incredible seeing the economic impact Bella has annually in both the local community and across the wider Highlands and Scotland.
“We strive wherever possible to work alongside regional partners and suppliers and look forward to working alongside current and new companies, organisations and charities over the coming years.”
First staged in 2004, Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival has grown steadily into one of Scotland’s largest and most established outdoor music events.
The festival now operates at its final capacity of 25,000 attendees per day.
Belladrum returns for its 22nd edition from 30 July to 1 August 2026, with early ticket sales reported to be performing strongly.
Artists confirmed for 2026 include Callum Beattie, James, The Human League, Mika, Razorlight, Ella Henderson, Sigala, Scouting For Girls and Kula Shaker, alongside hundreds of performers across multiple stages.
