Visitors and locals gathered in their thousands at Duthie Park on Saturday to attend the 2023 European Pipe Band Championships.
More than 100 pipe bands from across Europe and as far away as Australia basked in the Aberdeen sunshine while participating in one of the largest piping events in the world.
The Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Dr David Cameron, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people come out to support the European Pipe Band Championships at Duthie Park and enjoy a spectacular day of traditional music and the many additional activities that were on offer.
“I hope that everyone had a great day, and my congratulations go out to all the amazing musicians who took part in the competitions. I’m sure the Aberdonian welcome will have been extended to the visitors to our city this weekend and I hope many will have explored Aberdeen and the beautiful surrounding area.”
The weekend’s excitement included a whole day of family fun activities, including a Dinosaur QR Code Trail, canoeing, a bubble workshop and facepainting.
A range of food and drink from local producers was also available as well as local stallholders offering a selection of luxury goods to buy.
Balmoral chairman and MD, Sir James Milne CBE, said: "It was an absolute privilege for Balmoral Group to serve as the headline sponsor for this year's European Pipe Band Championships. It was a wonderful day and a momentous occasion for the city.
“I’m sure that the event created a better understanding and love for piping, while also allowing everyone to truly embrace the core values that define Scottish culture.
“The tremendous turnout of visitors from near and far speaks volumes about the event's reputation and the global appeal of pipe band music. It was a proud moment for Aberdeen, showcasing our city's ability to host a world-class event and leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.”
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: We would like to express our gratitude to Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeen Inspired and The Balmoral Group for their support in presenting the 2023 European Pipe Band Championships in Duthie Park, Aberdeen.
“The people of Aberdeen turned out in the tens of thousands and were provided with an amazing display from 100 bands across 9 grades, 17 Drum Majors and 51 Highland Dancers performing in spectacular weather. It was 42 years since we last held a Major Championship in
Aberdeen, we hope to return to this excellent venue in the very near future and rekindle the friendship made.”
Adrian Watson, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Inspired said: "Aberdeen once again proved itself to be a fantastic venue this weekend as thousands of people descended on Duthie Park for the European Pipe Band Championships. It was great to see so many people enjoying the sights and sounds of the competing pipe bands as well as taking part in the fun family activities that were on offer throughout the day.
"Duthie Park was a hive of activity on Saturday and many people also chose to spend time in the city centre. This is one of the added benefits of holding events such as the European Pipe Band Championships in Aberdeen, and I would like to thank our partners Aberdeen City Council and Balmoral who stepped up to bring this world class event to the city.”
Full details of the winners can be found via the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association website.