What's On in Fort William? Events, Festivals & Live Music Guide
Fort William is one of Scotland’s busiest outdoor destinations, with a packed calendar of events throughout the year. Whether you’re visiting to climb Ben Nevis, walk the West Highland Way, ride the Jacobite Steam Train or simply explore the Highlands, there is often something happening during your stay.
From mountain biking competitions and Highland Games to live music, community festivals and seasonal celebrations, Fort William offers events that appeal to visitors of all ages.
At Guisachan Guesthouse, we’re ideally located within walking distance of Fort William town centre, making it easy for guests to enjoy local events and return to comfortable accommodation after a busy day exploring.
Annual Events in Fort William
Mountain Biking & Outdoor Events
Fort William is internationally recognised as one of the UK’s leading outdoor adventure destinations.
Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy:
- Mountain biking competitions at Nevis Range
- Trail running events
- Cycling challenges
- Walking festivals
- Outdoor adventure gatherings
When major events take place, accommodation throughout Lochaber often becomes busy well in advance, so early booking is recommended.
Highland Games
The traditional Highland Games are among the highlights of the summer season.
Typically featuring:
- Pipe bands
- Highland dancing
- Heavy athletics events
- Local food and craft stalls
- Family entertainment
These events offer visitors a wonderful opportunity to experience Scottish culture and local traditions.
Ben Nevis Races & Charity Challenges
As Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis attracts numerous organised events each year, including:
- Hill-running competitions
- Charity fundraising climbs
- Walking challenges
- Guided outdoor events
Many participants choose Fort William as their base before and after these events.
Live Music in Fort William
Fort William has a surprisingly vibrant live music scene.
Visitors will regularly find:
- Traditional Scottish folk music
- Acoustic performances
- Local bands
- Touring acts
- Community concerts
Popular venues often host entertainment throughout the year, particularly during the summer visitor season.
If you’re staying with us, we’re always happy to suggest local venues and performances taking place during your visit.
Seasonal Events
Spring
Spring marks the beginning of the walking and climbing season.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Longer daylight hours
- Walking events
- Outdoor activity weekends
- Early-season festivals
Summer
Summer is the busiest period in Fort William.
Popular activities include:
- Highland Games
- Outdoor competitions
- Music events
- Community festivals
- Family events
- Highland sporting competitions
Autumn
Autumn brings spectacular colours to the Highlands.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Walking events
- Photography opportunities
- Food and drink festivals
- Cultural events
It is also one of the best times of year to explore the surrounding hills and glens.
Winter
Winter offers a completely different Highland experience.
Events can include:
- Christmas festivities
- Hogmanay celebrations
- Winter markets
- Seasonal entertainment
- Snow sports at Nevis Range when conditions allow
Events Near Fort William
Many visitors use Fort William as a base for exploring the wider Highlands. During your stay, you may also wish to visit events in:
- Glenfinnan
- Glencoe
- Spean Bridge
- Arisaig
- Mallaig
- Lochaber villages
- The Road to the Isles
Most are easily reached by car, train or local bus services.
Planning Your Visit
Fort William events can significantly increase demand for accommodation, particularly during the summer months and major sporting weekends.
If you’re visiting for a specific event, we recommend booking accommodation as early as possible.
At Guisachan Guesthouse, we offer:
✅ Comfortable en-suite rooms
✅ Freshly prepared breakfasts
✅ Free guest parking
✅ Residents’ whisky bar
✅ Guest lounge
✅ Official West Highland Way Passport Stamp Point
✅ Easy access to Fort William town centre
Whether you’re visiting for a local festival, live music, a sporting event or a Highland adventure, our family-run guesthouse provides an ideal base for exploring Fort William and the surrounding Highlands.
Stay Up to Date
We’ll regularly update this page with information about upcoming events, festivals and entertainment taking place in and around Fort William.
Be sure to check back before your visit to see what’s happening during your stay.
Events
Calendar of Events
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Our weekly regulars are made up of a group of enthusiastic locals who love to get together and play great music. |
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Live music at the Ben Nevis Bar in the High Street every Friday during summer: 9pm Saturday 13th June – Gary Robertson 9pm Friday 19th June – Andrew MacDonald 9pm Saturday 20th June – Tom Cruickshank 9pm Friday 26th June – Kevin Evans 9pm Saturday 27th June – Flipside |
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The Nevis Market offers a fantastic opportunity for small traders, crafters, and individuals to sell a diverse range of products and wares. From handmade crafts and unique items to car-boot treasures, our market boasts a wide variety of stalls and surprises. Whether you’re looking for beautiful knitwear, delicious homemade treats, handmade jewellery, or something special […] |
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Our weekly regulars are made up of a group of enthusiastic locals who love to get together and play great music. |
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The heroes of Team Megaslam battle it out with the dastardly Team Nasty in action-packed matches that are designed to get the whole family out of their seats and cheering on their favourites! |
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Live music at the Ben Nevis Bar in the High Street every Friday during summer: 9pm Saturday 13th June – Gary Robertson 9pm Friday 19th June – Andrew MacDonald 9pm Saturday 20th June – Tom Cruickshank 9pm Friday 26th June – Kevin Evans 9pm Saturday 27th June – Flipside |
3 events,The 2026 SDA season is coming, and it’s time for epic downhill action! Round 4 lands at Nevis Range on 12th & 13th September 2026, and you won’t want to miss it! 🔥 Come along and watch as top riders take on the legendary Fort William downhill track! Feel the buzz, soak in the atmosphere, and witness the adrenaline-fueled racing unfold […] A brand-new, 4-round youth race series created specifically for young riders. Designed as an accessible introduction to downhill racing, the series focuses on building confidence, developing skills, and, most importantly, having fun.
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Our weekly regulars are made up of a group of enthusiastic locals who love to get together and play great music. |
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2 events,Salomon Skyline Scotland® was established in 2015 and featured just one race, the iconic Glen Coe Skyline®. The event then moved to Kinlochleven in 2016 and grew to nine races. It featured in the Skyrunning World Series, Golden Trails World Series, and Spartan Trail and Ultra World Championships and hosted the Skyrunning World Championships. Salomon […]
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Live music at the Ben Nevis Bar in the High Street every Friday during summer: 9pm Saturday 13th June – Gary Robertson 9pm Friday 19th June – Andrew MacDonald 9pm Saturday 20th June – Tom Cruickshank 9pm Friday 26th June – Kevin Evans 9pm Saturday 27th June – Flipside |
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Our weekly regulars are made up of a group of enthusiastic locals who love to get together and play great music. |
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Peat & Diesel are hitting the road on tour this year and Fort William is one of the stops on the way. Secure your spot now for the choons & craic!
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Live music at the Ben Nevis Bar in the High Street every Friday during summer: 9pm Saturday 13th June – Gary Robertson 9pm Friday 19th June – Andrew MacDonald 9pm Saturday 20th June – Tom Cruickshank 9pm Friday 26th June – Kevin Evans 9pm Saturday 27th June – Flipside |
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Our weekly regulars are made up of a group of enthusiastic locals who love to get together and play great music. |
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Live music at the Ben Nevis Bar in the High Street every Friday during summer: 9pm Saturday 13th June – Gary Robertson 9pm Friday 19th June – Andrew MacDonald 9pm Saturday 20th June – Tom Cruickshank 9pm Friday 26th June – Kevin Evans 9pm Saturday 27th June – Flipside |
3 events,An epic multisport race featuring a swim in Loch Leven, a mountain bike ride along the West Highland Way to Fort William, and a run up Ben Nevis, finishing in nearby Kinlochleven.
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The Nevis Market offers a fantastic opportunity for small traders, crafters, and individuals to sell a diverse range of products and wares. From handmade crafts and unique items to car-boot treasures, our market boasts a wide variety of stalls and surprises. Whether you’re looking for beautiful knitwear, delicious homemade treats, handmade jewellery, or something special […] |
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