NAFCo 2026 – Visitor FAQ

Q1: What is the North Atlantic Fiddle Convention?

A: NAFCo is an international gathering celebrating fiddle music and dance traditions from around the North Atlantic. It features concerts, workshops, talks, sessions, and performances by world-class artists and academics.

Q2: When and where is NAFCo 2026 taking place?

A: NAFCo 2026 will be held from the 24th – 28th June 2026 in Aberdeen, Scotland. Venues include Aberdeen Music Hall, The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen Art Gallery, North East of Scotland College (NESCol) and many more in the city. We will also have events in Braemar and Banchory in Aberdeenshire.

Q3: What is a NAFCo Teaser?

A: A NAFCo teaser is an event to give you a flavour of what to expect during the festival. NAFCo Teasers are taking place from January – May 2026. Keep an eye on our social media and join the mailing list to be the first to hear about the line up. More information is also available on the website. These events are open to everyone.

Q4: Who can attend NAFCo events?

A: Everyone is welcome – from fans of traditional music to musicians, dancers, academics and students. Events range from professional performances to informal sessions and lectures.

Festival club is the only event with an 18+ age requirement.

Young people under 18 are welcome to join the daytime workshops as long as they are accompanied by a responsible adult.

Q5: Is the event family-friendly?

A: Absolutely - there are events suitable for all ages, including family-friendly concerts and community dances. Festival club is the only event with an 18+ age requirement.

Q6: How do I register or buy tickets?

A: Ticketing and registration details will be available on the official NAFCo website in 2026. Some events are free, while others require tickets. Paid events are individually ticketed.

Q7: Are there opportunities to participate?

A: Yes! Attendees can join workshops, attend open sessions, and submit proposals for academic papers or performances (deadlines and more information about the conference is on the website). We will also have a fantastic flashmob to join in with as well!

You can also join our fantastic NAFCo volunteer team!! It’s a great way to be part of the festival and help out behind the scenes.

Q8: What should I bring?

A: Bring your instrument if you’d like to join sessions, comfortable clothes for dancing, and a notebook if attending academic events. Don't forget local currency and plug adapters if visiting internationally.

Q9: Where can I find accommodation and travel info?

A: Accommodation and travel suggestions are available on the NAFCo website. Early booking is recommended, as local accommodation fills quickly during the festival.

Q10: When will the programme and artist line up be announced?

A: From January 2026. Make sure you join our mailing list and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to find out!

Q11: When will tickets go on sale?

A: NAFCo Teaser Tickets will go on sale in late 2025.

NAFCo festival tickets will be on sale from March 2026. Make sure you join our mailing list and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to find out!

Q12: I would like to support NAFCo – how do I do this?

A: Check out our sponsorship packages – there are loads of options including sponsoring and artist or event! Every kind of support – big or small – is greatly appreciated.