When to visit
We’re gearing up for a busy weekend, and if last year is anything to go by, we expect tomorrow, Sunday, to be one of our busiest days.
So, if you’re planning a visit this weekend, then tonight could be the perfect opportunity to enjoy everything the festival has to offer, and could mean shorter queues and a little more space to explore.
The forecast isn’t expected to change, and some rain is likely, but with the right waterproof clothing and footwear, you can still have an amazing time 
Saturday & Sunday:
Opening times: 5:30–10pm
Busiest periods: 5:30–8:30pm
Quieter visit: Arrive from 8:30pm for a more relaxed experience, with around 90 minutes to explore.
Festival maps will be available at:
- Aberdeen Art Gallery
- Aberdeen Townhouse
- Aberdeen Marischal College
- Spectra merch stand at Upperkirkgate (where you can also pick up cosy woolly Spectra-branded hats!)
See the Spectra map.
Travelling to Spectra
Public transport is available throughout the festival from First Bus and Stagecoach. Train services will be disrupted this weekend, with replacement buses in operation. Please check with your train operator before setting off.
Parking for £1
If you’re travelling by car, parking is available in various car parks across the city centre, with £1 parking available after 5pm at Virginia Street, Gallowgate, Frederick Street, Summer Street, Chapel Street, West North Street and Denburn carparks.
The offer is from 5pm to 8am until Saturday 28 February 2026. The offer applies for parking only started after 5pm.
Find out more about car parks.
Stage of Light live music performances
We have a range of fantastic performances for this year’s Stage of Light which is located in Cowdray Hall this year. Fire show performances will take place at the St Nicholas Bandstand.
Timings below 
Saturday:
6-7pm – Farran
7-7:30pm Fire Show – St Nicholas Bandstand
7:30-8:30pm- Noreie MacIver
8:30-9pm- Fire Show – St Nicholas Bandstand
9-10pm – Parliamo
Sunday:
6-7pm – Farran
7-7:30pm Fire Show – St Nicholas Bandstand
7:30-8:30pm- The Lorelei
8:30-9pm- Fire Show – St Nicholas Bandstand
Places to eat & take a pit-stop
Being located in Aberdeen city centre means that when you visit Spectra you are surrounded by great places to eat and drink. Spectra doesn’t just provide a festival filled to the brim with fantastic art for residents and visitors, it also supports the city’s diverse range of businesses across the centre and ensures they get a much-needed boost at a time which may normally be a bit quieter for them.
We also have a marshmallow pit available in Union Terrace Gardens
Find out more about offers and late-night openings for Spectra 2026.
You can also read more recommendations made by Aberdeen Inspired
Spectra merch!
This year, we have a Spectra merch stand at Upperkirkgate. From woolly Spectra-branded hats to light-up wands, be sure to check it out during your festival walkaround!
