NESCol’s Luminate festival puts student creativity centre stage

May 1, 2026

North East Scotland College (NESCol) has unveiled the programme for this year’s Luminate festival, with students set to showcase their creativity throughout May and June.

Now in its third year, Luminate is NESCol’s annual festival of creative learning, bringing together end-of-year exhibitions and performances into one inspiring programme.

Many of the events are open to all, giving the public the opportunity to experience the breadth of talent emerging from the region’s creative courses.

Students from a wide range of disciplines are involved in this year’s festival, including art and design, music, drama, hair and beauty, visual communication, textiles, and photography, highlighting the diversity of creative learning at the College.

Events are set to take place at Aberdeen City and Fraserburgh Campus, as well as external venues including the Lemon Tree and Aberdeen Health Village.

NESCol Principal Neil Cowie said: “Although we are coming to the end of the academic year, our campuses are buzzing with energy.

“Luminate is a perfect example of how we are bringing learning to life at NESCol. The festival allows students to take what they’ve learned beyond the classroom and present their work to real audiences.

“I encourage the public to explore the programme and experience first-hand the talent that is being developed at NESCol. With art exhibitions, theatre productions, musical performances and – new for this year – hair and beauty events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

“We are incredibly proud of the creativity, professionalism and ambition demonstrated by our students.”