Aberdeen winter events impacted by Covid-19

Aberdeen City Council has announced a revised programme of winter events due to coronavirus.

This year's Bonfire Night celebrations will no longer go ahead due to the pandemic.

The local authority says the Union Street Christmas lights and Christmas tree at Castlegate will still be installed but the switch on activities that normally surround the Christmas lights won't take place.

The 12 Days Christmas Sculpture Trail will go ahead as planned. 

The council says the changes have been made as the events usually attract thousands of spectators to the city, and current restrictions mean they could not go ahead as planned.

Councillor Marie Boulton, culture spokesperson, said: "Due to Covid-19 restrictions we are reimagining Christmas and whilst it’s sad we won’t be able to have the enthusiastic crowds gather for the switching on of the Christmas tree and lights, they will still be installed to bring Christmas spirit to the city and create a festive welcome for shoppers and visitors alike.

"The safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors to the city remains our top priority and so we must follow all the latest Scottish Government guidance in relation to live events and public gatherings.

"With significant lead-in times and planning required to safely deliver these popular events, it is sensible for us to make the decision not to proceed with fireworks night and to adapt the Christmas switch-on events now given the uncertainty of the current situation."