Thousands take part in Celebrate Aberdeen parade this Saturday

This Saturday, August 26th, around 5000 people, representing 130 organisations will take over Union Street for this year’s Celebrate Aberdeen parade.

First held in 2011, the parade recognises and celebrates the enormous contribution which third sector organisations, including charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises, make to the lives of thousands of people in Aberdeen and the North-east. Also taking part will be representatives of sports clubs, musicians and dance groups who all contribute to and enrich the region’s culture.

Starting at 11am from Holburn Junction the parade, which is supported by Aberdeen City Council, will begin and end on a musical note with the Newtonhill Pipe Band leading the way and the Rock Choir bringing it to a close at Castlegate.

“To see Union Street filled from end to end by participants representing all the fantastic organisations which take part is quite an incredible sight,” said Celebrate Aberdeen volunteer Emily Findlay. “The work they do and the contribution they make to their chosen organisation makes a massive, positive impact on countless thousands of people right across the city and shire. This event is all about saying thank you, and publicly acknowledging what they bring to our society.

“We’ve always had amazing support from members of the public who come along to watch the parade and we’re confident that we will get that again. If you’ve not come to watch this before, we invite and encourage you to come along this year. It’s both heartwarming and humbling and a sight not to be missed.”

Preceding the 2023 parade will be Mel's Union Street Mile, sponsored by MDT International, which gives runners from Primary 3 up to seniors and veterans, a rare chance to run a full mile through a city centre. The race begins at 10.30 from its starting point at the Music Hall, continues up to Holburn Junction and then right down Union Street.

MT International Director Drew Leitch said: “As a local loon, born and brought up in the city, it’s fantastic to have this opportunity to sponsor Mel’s Union Street Mile. I first met Mel in 1982. He was such an inspiring individual and there’s no doubt that his son Myles is cut from the same cloth. MDT International is delighted to have been involved in supporting the Gathimba Edwards Foundation since 2015 – and we feel privileged to be able to continue to play our part in supporting the tremendous work of this life changing charity.”

The second of the Celebrate Aberdeen activities, will be an awards ceremony at the Chester Hotel on Saturday, October 28, which will recognise some of the exceptional work carried out by individuals and third sector organisations.

Both events are planned and organised entirely by volunteers. The awards are funded thanks to generosity of Aberdeen’s business community, including sponsors CNOOC International, CNR International, Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen, Cala Homes, Aberdeen Inspired and Hampton as well as partners Aberdeen City Council and Northsound 1.