Dornoch is celebrating the very best of Highland life as its Autumn Highland Festival brings two weeks of food, whisky, history, music and community festivities to the historic Sutherland town.
Running from Friday 23 October until Thursday 5 November, the festival offers residents and visitors an opportunity to discover local traditions, enjoy Highland produce and experience the town at one of the most atmospheric times of year.
Now established as a popular fixture in Dornoch’s calendar, the celebration brings together local businesses, cultural organisations and community groups for a varied programme of events.
The festivities began with the 11th Dornoch Whisky Festival, held from 23 to 25 October, featuring tastings, masterclasses and specially prepared dinners pairing whisky with food.
The wider programme continues with cookery demonstrations, special menus and Folktober Fest, showcasing the produce and hospitality for which the Highlands are renowned.
History also has an important place in the celebrations, with the University of the Highlands and Islands and Historylinks Museum hosting talks and workshops exploring the region’s rich past.
Literature enthusiasts will have an opportunity to meet bestselling author Philip Paris, whose latest novel, A Fire in Their Hearts, has been longlisted for the 2026 Saltire Fiction Book of the Year award.
For those who enjoy the natural world, a Dark Skies Workshop promises a different perspective on the Highlands, inviting participants to discover the night sky above the Dornoch Firth.
Away from the indoor events, the town itself provides a beautiful setting for exploring its independent shops, welcoming cafés and restaurants.
Golf, music and other Highland cultural experiences also feature throughout the fortnight, giving visitors plenty of reasons to spend more time in the area.
The festival concludes on Thursday 5 November with one of Dornoch’s most cherished traditions, its torchlit Bonfire Night parade through the town.
Sharon Mackay, Dornoch Business Improvement District manager, welcomed the continued growth of the celebration.
She said:
“This year’s Festival programme is bigger and better than ever which is testament to just how popular it has become.
“We’re delighted so many local businesses are getting involved and hosting their own events, helping to create a varied programme that really does offer something for everyone.”
The involvement of local businesses is central to the festival, with accommodation providers, restaurants, shops and attractions helping create a programme that encourages visitors to explore the wider area.
For Dornoch, the event is also an opportunity to celebrate the character of a Highland community whose history, landscape and hospitality continue to attract people from across Scotland and beyond.
With more than a week of celebrations still to enjoy, there is plenty of time to experience a little of what makes Dornoch such a special place.
Explore the full festival programme and find booking details at thisisdornoch.com/events-in-dornoch/autumn-highland-festival-2026/
