Right then. The clocks have gone back, the nights are long, and the city’s lighting up for winter. Whether you’re after live tunes, a dram and a dance, or just fancy a wander round a festive market, there’s plenty happening tae keep the spirits high and the toes toasty.
Dundee Jazz Festival (13–16 Nov)
It’s back, and it’s a belter. Four days of smooth, swingin’, and sometimes downright funky sounds across the city. Expect top-tier jazz talent like kitti, Kimberley Tessa, and the Tayside Big Band, plus international guests.
- Highlights: Lorne Lofsky & Nigel Price Quartet (14 Nov), Rebecca Vasmant DJ set (14 Nov, 71 Brewing), kitti with the Tayside Big Band (16 Nov).
- Tickets: £8–18
Dundee Diwali – Bharatiya Ashram (8 Nov)
Colour, lights, music, and the Ramayan story retold in dazzling dance. One of the city’s most joyful nights.
- When: Sat 8 Nov, 6 pm
- Where: Bharatiya Ashram, Commercial Street
- Tickets: £5 (wee bairns under 3 go free)
Christmas Lights Switch-On (Sun 16 Nov)
The big Dundee sparkle-up! Expect Santa, snow machines, street food, tunes, and general festive chaos in the best way.
- Where: City Centre
- When: From 10 am, lights go on at 6 pm
- Cost: Free (but good luck escaping without a churro or two)
Winter Design Market @ V&A Dundee (28–30 Nov)
If you’re the sort that loves a good candle and a locally made ceramic mug, this one’s for you. A beautifully curated market packed with Scottish designers, DJCAD grads, and independent makers.
- When: 10 am–5 pm, all weekend
- Cost: Free entry, wallets beware.
The SAY Award Ceremony (6 Nov, Caird Hall)
Scotland’s album of the year gets crowned right here in Dundee. Expect live sets, proper chat from Vic Galloway and Nicola Meighan, and a cracking night celebrating Scottish music at its finest.
- Tickets: Around £30
LexFest (7 Nov, Clarks on Lindsay Street)
A cosy wee indoor festival for folk who like their gigs up close and personal. Loads of local acts, laid-back vibe, and plenty of pints.
Diana Reigns Supreme (15 Nov, Caird Hall)
A night of full-band soul and sparkle celebrating the one and only Miss Ross. Sequins optional but encouraged.
Elvana – Elvis Fronted Nirvana (8 Nov, Fat Sam’s)
A fever dream made real. Elvis meets Kurt Cobain, and somehow it works. Expect loud guitars, slick hair, and total chaos.
The Santa Express (23 Nov, Whitehall Theatre)
A proper family show with songs, dancing, and festive mischief as Santa gets rescued from Jack Frost. Pyjamas encouraged — for the kids, mind.
Markets & Makers
- The Yard Market @ 71 Brewing (7–8 & 28 Nov): Street food, DJs, and local makers. £2 on the door, or free if you’re charming.
- Verdant Works Christmas Market (22–23 Nov): Crafts, choirs, and heritage galore in Dundee’s iconic jute mill. Free entry, and well worth a visit.
At the McManus
If you’re dodging the drizzle, duck inside the McManus for world-class art and hands-on sessions:
- Mella Shaw: Sounding Line (until Jan 2026) — eerie, beautiful ceramics made from whale bone ash.
- Leather Purse Making Workshop (10 & 17 Nov) — make your own gear with local maker Jude Gove (£55).
- Family Clay Session (15 Nov) — free and gloriously messy.
St Andrew’s Day Weekender (28–30 Nov)
- Boomerang Ceilidh (Fri 28 Nov): Dinner, dancing, and a proper knees-up with Strathmore Ceilidh Band.
- Dundee Hooley (Sun 30 Nov): Free city-centre party with music, torches, ceilidh dancing and plenty of tartan.
Fancy a wee night out?
If fireworks and fairylights aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty happening:
- Light Up the Loch (8 Nov, Forbes of Kingennie): Family feast and fireworks.
- Disco Days Xmas Party (29 Nov, Fat Sam’s): Daytime disco. Christmas jumpers and dancing encouraged.
So, what’s the craic?
November in Dundee’s pure magic — the city hums with music, makers, markets and merriment. Wrap up warm, grab a pal, and get stuck in.
See you oot there,
VisitDundee ✨
Your Dundee-lovin’ guide tae good times and no nonsense.
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