Aberdeen’s Community Festive Fund received over 120 applications to help spread cheer and create memorable experiences across the city during the festive period.
The Community Festive Fund, which was established to encourage organisations and groups to come together within their own communities during the Christmas and Hogmanay periods, is designed to celebrate community wellbeing and community.
Councillor Martin Greig, culture spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council said: “This fund has helped bring our communities together, helping to create magical memories and ensuring everyone can share in the joy of the festive season.
“It is fantastic to hear how the fund has helped groups organise local celebrations across the city.”
Applicants for 2025 represented a wide range of community-led initiatives, from Christmas meals for the elderly, to festive days out for children and families and neighbourhood celebrations.
Recipients of the fund shared their experiences:
The 1st City of Aberdeen Scout Group said: “We at the 1st City of Aberdeen Scout Group were delighted to receive Aberdeen City Council’s Community Festive Fund this year. The funding helped us purchase supplies for our Christmas Fayre, supporting our fundraising efforts for a new roof for our ageing Scout Hut. Thanks to increased community engagement, we welcomed more attendees than ever and raised over £1,200. We extend our sincere thanks to the Festive Fund for their support.”
Afristyle Dance Club said: “We are grateful for the Festive Fund support, which helps us recognise and appreciate our dedicated volunteers at the Afristyle Live Concert, live Passion Event.”
Skene Square Parent Council said: “The Parent Council at Skene Square has been the recipient of funding from the community festive fund for the last two years. We've used the money towards our annual Winter Fair which serves as a fundraiser as well as a community event. The funding has allowed us to purchase treats from a local business so that we can give every child who attends a small gift. Having a mixed demographic at the school, it means that everyone gets something at the fair.”
Cove Woodland Trust said: “We’re really grateful to be awarded funding through the council’s Community Festive Fund! Our award has helped cover some of the costs of bringing the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd to our community site in Cove. Our festive event offers the opportunity to meet Santa, as well as his magical reindeer, and be presented with a gift - completely free of charge for members of our community. This wouldn’t be possible without the support of funding like this and support from other generous donors.”
The Community Festive Fund is part of Aberdeen City Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities and ensuring the festive season is inclusive and joyful for all.