What's on: Check out these events happening in the North-east this month

Each month, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce is publishing a round-up of some of the highlights of what's on in the region.

For February, there's no shortage of events and attractions available, from must-see culture and art displays to exciting business and training opportunities.

Have a look at our list below to make sure you don't miss anything, and check out VisitAberdeenshire's events diary here.

Illuminating new business opportunities for the UK energy supply chain

March 19

The UK’s leading energy supply chain event returns on 19 March 2026, attracting companies across oil and gas, offshore wind, geothermal, and carbon capture and storage (CCUS) sectors. Share Fair 2026, delivered in partnership with the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA), will once again provide an essential platform for business development through collaboration, innovation, and through sharing insight of business opportunities across the UK offshore energy sector.

This year’s Share Fair is proudly supported by its Principal Sponsor, Aurora Energy Services, and Supporting Sponsor, Well-Safe Solutions.

Share Fair is designed to strengthen engagement between buyers and suppliers, aiding business development and enabling both sides to explore routes to working together on future UK energy projects. Attendees will gain exclusive access to market intelligence on upcoming activities and emerging projects alongside the hugely popular one‑to‑one meetings, which ensure supply chain companies can secure meetings with key decision‑makers and potential new clients.

With over 25 operator, developers and major contractors sharing their forward plans at this event,  supply chain attendees will have the opportunity to broaden awareness of how their capabilities, technologies, and specialised services can help address current industry challenges. With a full programme of presentations and networking sessions throughout the day, companies have many opportunities to raise their profile, showcase innovation, and forge new commercial partnerships.

Reflecting the sector’s drive to deliver the UK’s net-zero ambitions, Share Fair 2026 will feature contributions from organisations across offshore wind, oil and gas, hydrogen, geothermal, and CCUS, offering a comprehensive view of where future opportunities lie.

Why Attend Share Fair 2026?

• Gain insight into detailed forward workplans from across the offshore energy industry.
• Hear about key business opportunities and contract prospects directly from project leads.
• Build valuable connections with procurement teams and senior managers.
• Meet new clients and strengthen relationships with existing customers.
• Pre‑book up to three one‑to‑one sessions with prospective buyers (subject to availability).
• Explore solutions to current project challenges.
• Participate in discussions that help address supply-chain barriers and stimulate commercial activity.

To find out more, get involved or book your place click here https://oeuksharefair.co.uk/

Converged invites North-east businesses to cyber resilience event at Pittodrie

Thursday, March 19

Businesses across the North-east are invited to Cyber Security Wins, a cyber security event at Aberdeen Football Club later this month, aimed at addressing the real-world challenges organisations face when protecting their operations.

Hosted by Converged Communication Solutions, part of the Converged Solutions Group, the event will bring together business and cyber experts to provide practical guidance and informed insight.

Event Date: Thu, 19th March, 2026, 

Time: 9:30am networking | 10:00-12:00 main session

Event Venue: AFC Football Club, Pittodrie

Registration: www.converged.co.uk/join-us-at-cyber-security-wins/

Recent high-profile cyber incidents have raised important questions for business leaders: if large organisations can be breached, what does that mean for SMEs with smaller teams and budgets? At the same time, evolving regulations like the UK Cyber Security and Resilience Bill and standards such as Cyber Essentials are raising expectations around preparedness, reporting, and accountability.

To answer these, the Cyber Security Wins event will provide insights from experienced cyber and business practitioners, share clear guidance on risk, compliance, roles, and organisational resilience and host a panel discussion on the “5 W’s of Cyber Security”: 

• Why security matters for every business
• What attackers most commonly target
• Where vulnerabilities tend to lie
• When compliance requirements apply
• Who holds responsibility for protection within an organisation.

Speakers include:

• Robbie Ross, Cyber Security Lead, Converged
• Gavin Simpson, Technical Manager, Converged
• Conor Agnew, Head of Compliance, Closed Door Security
• Dave Bowman, IT Director, Aberdeen Football Club - recently recognised as a finalist in the Scottish Cyber Awards for its approach to cyber resilience.

This session is ideal for business owners, directors, managers, or anyone responsible for cyber security within their organisation, as it focuses on clear, actionable insight rather than technical theory.

An optional stadium tour and networking lunch afterwards are included. 

Poetry afternoon at St Machar's Cathedral

Saturday, March 21

St Machar’s Cathedral warmly welcomes everyone for an afternoon of poetry and music, tea, coffee and cakes, in the Cathedral on Saturday the 21st of March 2-4pm. 

In addition to good company and good food, accompanied by music, there will be a chance to hear poetry read or to read your own choice. There will be pieces based on the theme of spring but feel free to bring along a favourite. 

No charge but donations are invited in favour of nominated charities Sight Savers International and local charities Tilly flat and STAR flat.

FT Recruitment Group – PA,EA & Business Support Networking Event 

Thursday, March 12

FT Recruitment Group are delighted to be hosting their second PA, EA & Business Support Networking Event taking place this Thursday 12th March at Six By Nico on Union Street — with just a few tickets remaining, now is the time to secure your place!

Following the fantastic demand after their October event, Bethany Smith, Senior Recruitment Consultant at FT Recruitment, is excited to once again bring together local professionals to connect, share experiences, and expand their networks.

The evening will feature guest speaker Shellie Stewart, Executive Assistant at ROVOP, who will be sharing insights into her career journey, the challenges she has faced, and her perspective on what it takes to thrive as a modern-day PA/EA.

This event promises the perfect balance of professional insight and relaxed networking — great conversations, great company, and great wine.

Six By Nico, Union Street, Aberdeen

Thursday 12th March | 6pm–9pm

Wine tasting & canapés

£5 per ticket (all proceeds donated to local Aberdeen charity VSA)

Only a few tickets remain — don’t miss out! Secure yours today by clicking the link below.

Book your ticket here: https://lnkd.in/e4zsPrAK

For further details, please contact Bethany directly on 07568 072056 or bethany.smith@ft-recruitment.com

Aberdeen universities to make waves at annual Boat Race

Saturday, March 21

The University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University will go head-to-head later this month as the iconic Aberdeen Boat Race returns to the city.

The race, hailed the north-east's answer to the prestigious Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, will take place on Saturday 21 March.

Crews from Aberdeen’s universities will battle it out on the 3.5km route along the River Dee, leaving from the Bridge of Dee and racing to the finish line at Aberdeen Boat House.

This year’s theme is Boars v Bulls reflecting the two universities’ mascots: Bobby the Boar (RGU) and Angus the Bull (Aberdeen). Both animals represent determination, power and strength – attributes needed to succeed on the water.

The toss for stations will take place at 12.50pm on the day, with the second crew and alumni races taking place at 1.35pm and 1.55pm respectively.

A Sports Presidents Race will take place at 2.40pm. Hannah Cowie, Vice President for Activities, and Fraser Bell, Chief Operating Officer, will be competing for the University of Aberdeen. Davidson Obi Onyeanuna, President (Sport and Physical Activity) and Bryan Uyiosa Igbinigie, President of Communication and Democracy, will compete for RGU.

The Aberdeen Boat Race will then commence at 3pm, with the presentation of trophies taking place at 3.30pm.

The University of Aberdeen crew emerged victorious at the 2025 race, giving them a 22-8 lead ahead of the 31st annual race next month.

This year, the cox for the University of Aberdeen will be Lara Tinneny, and Polly Payne will lead the Robert Gordon University crew. 

Heather Monaghan, President of the Aberdeen University Boat Club and third year medical student, said:  "The Aberdeen University Boat Club crew has been training intensely over the winter months and I'm ready to lead the team into an exhilarating 31st Aberdeen Boat Race. Trust that we will fight hard to extend our winning streak on the River Dee. Bring it on!"

Professor Peter Edwards, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, said: “There is always a fantastic sense of community spirit at the Aberdeen Boat Race and it’s wonderful to see the city come together to celebrate sporting excellence. Each year the Boat Race demonstrates the commitment and passion both crews have for their sport. They work hard throughout the year to deliver this exciting event and their determination and effort is clear to all who attend.

“Whether you’ve been showing your support at the Boat Race for 30 years or this is your first time, I'd encourage you to come along and cheer on your team next month.”

Ellis Flett, President of the RGU Boat Club, said: "I’m so excited to be leading the RGU crew into the 31st annual Boat Race.

"Our squad is training hard to make sure we can take back the title from the University of Aberdeen and I would urge as many people as possible to come down to the riverside and cheer us on. Let’s paint the town purple."

Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of RGU, said: "The annual Aberdeen Boat Race is a fantastic occasion, and I wish all of those taking part the best of luck. For more than 30 years, this event has been a celebration of sport in the heart of the city.

"I would urge supporters of both crews to line the banks and bridges along the River Dee to encourage them as they aim for the finish line."

Educating the Educated: An Evening of Insight & Empowerment 

Tuesday, March 17

Laurie & Co are delighted to invite you to a confidence-boosting evening designed to make property, finance and legal matters clear, accessible and empowering. If you’ve ever felt that certain topics were “over your head,” this event is here to change that with real conversations, practical advice and guidance you can genuinely understand and use.

Featuring Stephanie Mann, Natalie Edwards (Laurie & Co), Laura Pike (The Pike Partnership) and Sarah-Louise Hay (Hay-House Financial Services Limited), the evening will provide honest insight, expert knowledge and the opportunity to ask the questions that truly matter.

Hosted at the elegant The Chester Hotel, this welcoming event offers a relaxed atmosphere with tea, coffee and food served.

The Chester Hotel
Tuesday 17 March
5:45pm arrival | 6:30pm start
Tea, coffee & food served

Come along, bring a friend, and leave feeling informed, confident and empowered about the decisions ahead.

Book your place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/get-your-mojo-back-educating-the-educated-tickets-1983455592069?aff=oddtdtcreator

Homeowners and aspiring self-builders invited to event at Thainstone Exchange this weekend

Saturday, March 7

Homeowners and aspiring self-builders across the North East are invited to attend the Scottish Self Build & Renovation (North East) Event this Saturday, 7 March 2026, at Thainstone Exchange, Inverurie.

The event is completely free to attend, with doors open from 10am to 4pm. While entry is free, advance registration is recommended to avoid queuing, and all registered attendees who attend on the day will be automatically entered into a prize draw to win an air fryer.

Designed for anyone planning a self-build, renovation or home improvement project, the event will feature a hall packed with exhibitors covering architecture, planning, building materials, renewable energy systems, windows and doors, ventilation, private water supplies, interiors and more.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet industry professionals face-to-face, compare products and services and gain practical advice tailored to their project stage.

A full seminar programme will run throughout the day, offering expert-led sessions on key topics:

• 10.30am – Self-Build: Snakes & Ladders… or Strategy?
  With Julie Nairn from Strawberry Grange and Jonathan Cheyne from Mac Architects
• 11.30am – Understanding Heat Pumps, Solar PV & Battery Storage
  With Colin Boyle from Barres Renewable Energy Systems
• 12.30pm – What Every Self-Builder Should Know About Choosing Windows & Doors
  With Steff Bell from Glass Worx Ltd
• 1.30pm – Private Water Supply: Understanding the Different Types and How Best to Develop Them
  With Ben Trotter from Filpumps
• 2.30pm – Heat Recovery Ventilation (MVHR): What You Need to Know
  With Nick Forbes from Forbes Solutions

The seminars are designed to provide clear, practical advice to help homeowners make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Aimee Aitken, Event Manager says: “Building or renovating a home is one of the biggest investments people will ever make, and it can feel overwhelming at times. This event is all about giving homeowners access to trusted experts, practical advice and real conversations in one place. Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or already on site, there’s something here that can genuinely help you move forward with confidence.”

With free onsite parking and a wide range of local and national exhibitors in attendance, the event offers a convenient and comprehensive resource for anyone serious about building or improving their home.

Event Details:
Scottish Self Build & Renovation (North East) Event
Saturday 7 March 2026
10am – 4pm
Thainstone Exchange, Inverurie

For further information and free entry (registration recommended), please visit:
https://www.scottishselfbuild.com/events/scottish-self-build-and-renovation-north-east-2026

Business Breakfast @ the Cross, new date announced

Thursday, March 12

The next Business Breakfast @ the Cross will take place on Thursday 12 March at Fountainhall Church at the Cross from 7.30 am. 

On this occasion, Graeme MacDonald from Mearns & Gill will speak about - Branding in the time of recession. Graeme will share with us interesting tips on how to make the best use of your brand when budgets are tight in a competitive market place. When resources are constrained, it's not about doing everything, it's about doing the right things and focusing on the touchpoints where your brand can punch above its weight.

This event is part of the Business Breakfasts at the Cross, a series of networking events giving you the opportunity to connect with your business peers and to enjoy informative talks for the local business community.

The Business Breakfasts at the Cross takes place in Fountainhall Church at the Cross, Albyn Place, with catering provided by Cafe at the Cross.
Secure your spot here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/business-breakfasts-at-the-cross/t-qmmvpxp

Upcoming networking and learning event ‘Wake Up & Learn: AI Made Simple’

Tuesday, March 10

Join Peer Works for a practical introduction to generative artificial intelligence (AI), designed for organisations that want to understand the basics and explore how to use AI responsibly.

The event will take place on Tuesday, 10 March, 09:00–11:00, at the Copthorne Hotel, Aberdeen. A complimentary networking breakfast will be included.

Surya L. Ramesh, freelance data consultant, educator and speaker, will explain key AI terms, clear up common misconceptions, and share how organisations can benefit from using AI in a safe and effective way.

Dr Mercy Ogunnusi, founder of GreenTender Limited, will discuss her journey from a non‑technical background to gaining hands‑on experience with new AI tools. She will outline how these tools enhanced the development of accessible and practical systems for SMEs, from innovation to real‑world sustainability.

Booking Link: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/peerworks/2069451.

The Cathedral Body Artwork by Carla Angus

Running until March 20

Entry by donation 

Open Monday to Saturday 10.00-16.00 Sunday 14.00-17.00

“We are delighted to be able to display this sculptural work at the Cathedral, supporting a local artist and providing a rich thought-provoking experience for visitors over the next few weeks,” Katherine Williams Education Officer

Launch event 23.02.26 18.00-19.00   Meet the artist over a drink and nibbles in the north aisle St Machar’s Cathedral 

The Artwork THE CATHEDRAL BODY - Originally commissioned by A+E, the art and ecology programme at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral Edinburgh, this sculptural piece is on temporary display in the north aisle of St Machar’s Cathedral for three weeks.

It is a response to the myriad networks that thread through, and radiate outwards from, an eminent historical public building. Conceived as an intimate, conversation space that invites you sit and pause inside, the work manifests as a complex interweaving of line through space.

 It evolved through an intermittent research project over two years, mapping the visible and invisible qualities of St Mary’s Cathedral via historical documents, drawing, sound recordings, photography and conversation. What emerged was an overarching theme of communication; connections built on memory but consistently in flux. 

From endless archived paper documents to flighty digital messaging, sprawling electrical hardware to underground plant root networks, to words spoken and sung, the venue is a site of continuous knitting and re-knotting of communication. The Cathedral Body is a map of these networks, a version of an historic public building stripped of its stone exoskeleton. A flexible, organic fascia that speaks to the strength of multiple connections between ourselves and our environment, whatever and wherever that may be. 

The artist Carla Angus has a research-based art practice driven by stories of heritage, place and artefact, creating work that responds directly to objects and buildings. She pursues her own version of deep mapping (taking a multi-layered approach to exploring a subject), and object-biography (the stories embodied within artefacts) as ways to understand and recontextualize history within contemporary society. Her work is thoughtful and conversational, highlighting connections between things that may be otherwise hidden. These links decide what materials are ultimately used so that the senses, imagination and intellect all come into play when viewing her work. She enjoys creating pieces that audiences can interact with or view in the round. Carla also has a rich and varied background in cultural development. 

Since 2004, she has been instrumental in fostering creative practice and building connections between freelance practitioners and communities across North-east Scotland. Within this work she strives to promote creative thinking and activity as a means to support wellbeing. Originally from London, Carla has lived in rural Aberdeenshire for over 20 years. She holds a Masters in Fine Art from Grays School of Art Aberdeen

Night Walks in the Cairngorms - Muir of Dinnet NNR

Running until March 13

Dark Sky Adventures in the Heart of Scotland.

A guided night walk in the Cairngorms National Park, led by a qualified Mountain Leader and certified Star Ranger. Begin with an engaging Dark Skies / stargazing presentation before heading out to explore the landscape in darkness. Discover the area’s rich history and nocturnal wildlife as you walk beneath some of the darkest skies in Scotland. When conditions allow, you’ll see constellations, planets, and the Milky Way in breathtaking clarity.

About the trip:

Travel in comfort aboard our private minibus — affectionately known as the Starship — with collection available from the Ballater area. You’ll be whisked away to a tranquil location for an engaging Dark Skies presentation, complete with hot drinks to keep you warm. Location of the event will be in the Ballater / Braemar area depending on winter road conditions and localised weather forecasts. You can choose to travel in your own vehicle if preferred and meet us / follow us to the chosen walk location.

Please note this event will go ahead even if it is overcast or raining - there will still be a dark skies presentation. Night vision scopes will be available for wildlife spotting. If the weather forecast is unsafe, the event will be postponed and you will be offered a refund (minus 5% booking fees), or another date.

Click here for more information.

Tales of the Tall Ships - Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Running until March 29

The spectacular Tall Ships Races will visit Aberdeen for four days in July as part of this major international sailing event. The ships dock in Aberdeen from 19 to 22 July following a 430-mile nautical mile trip from Dunkirk.

To celebrate the arrival of the fleet, this exhibition of paintings, ship models and photography highlights some of Aberdeen’s historic and cultural ties to these iconic, fast-sailing vessels, from shipyard construction to racing and competition.

More information is available here.