One of the Highlands’ leading destinations has reflected on a successful year of live events following a pivot to transform its music and entertainment offering.
Set in the heart of the Cairngorms, Macdonald Aviemore Resort stepped up to fill the void left by the closure of the Ironworks in Inverness last year and provide a space for established bands, musicians and comedians to perform to crowds in the Highlands.
Highlights have included appearances from award-winning Scots group, Manran, the Highland Comedy Show starring Connor Burns and Ray Bradshaw, and Hogmanay celebrations headlined by the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Having built its reputation as a world-class business and leisure setting over the past 50-plus years, Macdonald Aviemore Resort has benefited from new revenue streams brought by its revamped entertainment calendar alongside traditional family breaks and staycations.
The resort continues to experiment with its lineup and recently announced a series of popular tribute events: Desperados, featuring the music of the Eagles, on Saturday, February 22, Abbamania on Saturday, March 15, and the Scottish Elvis Festival between April 4-6.
One of the upcoming live events coming to Macdonald Aviemore Resort.
Spaces are filling up quickly with limited tickets available to purchase via the website, while all ticket holders can benefit from a 25% discount on bed and breakfast rates.
Gaelle Delagrave, marketing director at Macdonald Aviemore Resort, commented: “We’ve been extremely pleased with the response to our music and comedy shows and look forward to building upon this throughout 2025 with more announcements planned for performances later in the year.
“It’s always a risk when you try something new, but we had belief this was something we had to do to create a unique place for local people, as well as those from across the Highlands and further afield, where they can relax and enjoy live entertainment in a fantastic setting.
“We’re excited to host our upcoming tribute nights, who are all talented performers in their own right. Our team continues to work hard to attract top artists who may not have travelled north in the past, helping create special memories for people and families of all ages who choose to visit Aviemore.”
Located at the centre of the resort, the Osprey Arena is a versatile space for hosting concerts, exhibitions and product launches, which can accommodate up to 1,150 people. This function room – equipped with private bars, PA/sound system, and advanced audiovisual technology – can also be transformed into a dining and conference facility, capable of holding up to 700 delegates.
Building upon its reputation as a renowned destination for family holidays, business conferences and leisure breaks, the addition of an entertainment calendar has added fresh impetus while providing guests with professional hotel-level service from the moment they arrive at the resort.
Macdonald Aviemore Resort is keen to evolve to attract a range of new visitors alongside its traditional clientele and showcase the full range of amenities available, including accommodation, food and drink, and leisure activities.
Longer term, it is hoped that the resort – located a few minutes’ walk from the train station – could rival large venues in the Central Belt for major attractions and live events, helping spearhead the transformation of the wider region.