What is The Hairst?

Definition of a Hairst

Chiefly Scottish variant of HARVEST

The Hairst is a unique annual harvest festival taking place in Huntly. This family event, established in 2002, celebrates the food and traditions of Aberdeenshire. It has something for everyone, from an extended Farmers Market with over 50 stalls showcasing the best of local produce to cookery demonstrations and competitions, including The World Stovies Championship. Huntly’s Room to Run event is also taking place on the same day.

Huntly Hairst is an annual celebration of the food and artisan produce of the North East. The event on Saturday is a major part of the local events calendar.

The Festival is organised by a group of volunteers who give their time to promote the produce and producers of Aberdeenshire and provide an enjoyable event for local residents and visitors.

We are now taking stall bookings for this years Huntly Hairst. Booking forms can be found on the Farmers Market & Street Food page and the Craft Stalls page.

Featured on BBC

In 2019 one of our Farmers Market Stall Holders Little Rowater were filmed by the BBC for This Farming Life, showing the preparation before and the day of the Hairst, a great representation of our Hairst.

Click here to watch the full episode on BBC iPlayer

About Huntly

Huntly is a lovely wee town in the North East of Scotland on the A96 between Aberdeen and Inverness. It can be reached by train, bus or car. The nearest airport is in Aberdeen.

There is plenty to see and do in Huntly. Amongst other things we have a Castle, Golf Course, Skiing and Biking, a Falconry Centre and even a Distillery nearby. Ramblers and walkers find beautiful trails through the surrounding forests.

Huntly Hairst day
what is the hairst
what is the Huntly Hairst