| 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Days | Hours | Mins | Secs |
Get ready to rock in 2026 at Bonfest, an annual music festival held in Kirriemuir, Angus (often called the “Wee Red Toon” by locals). This fun, high-energy event celebrates the life and music of Bon Scott, the legendary AC/DC frontman who was born in the town. Every early May weekend, Kirriemuir’s scenic setting at the foot of the Angus glens comes alive with roaring guitar riffs, anthemic vocals, and an electric crowd. Fans of all ages – from diehard AC/DC devotees to families looking for a mellow country getaway – gather to share the experience of live rock music and good times under the open sky.
Bonfest is more than just a concert series; it is a community celebration. The festival grounds are filled with multiple stages and performance areas, packed with talented tribute bands and original rock acts. You will hear everything from powerhouse AC/DC covers to fresh hard rock and blues bands, ensuring both nostalgia and new discoveries. Between sets, festival-goers swap stories and sing along to classic tunes, fueled by the welcoming Scotch hospitality. With thousands of fellow rock fans around, the party vibe is always alive – picnics, beers (responsibly enjoyed), and plenty of foot-tapping fun abound.
Behind the scenes, Bonfest has an inspiring local story. Founded in 2006 by music enthusiasts, what began as a small tribute gathering has grown into an international rock festival run largely by volunteer passion. In 2026 the event hits its 20th anniversary, proving that Kirriemuir loves to keep Bon’s spirit alive. Profits go to the DD8 charity to support young musicians, so every guitar crunch and drumbeat also contributes to the local music community. Attendees often camp on-site amidst the Angus countryside or stay in nearby inns and B&Bs, waking up each morning to the sound of laughter (and maybe a hangover burger or two!).
Kirriemuir itself is part of the charm. This historic stone town, a birthplace of Bon Scott (and author J.M. Barrie, creator of Peter Pan), welcomes visitors with its red-sandstone buildings and warm friendliness. Between afternoon sets you might spot fans strolling through the main street to see the Bon Scott statue, enjoying local grub, or lining up for festival merch. Evening jam sessions occasionally spill out under the stars. Despite the lively rock atmosphere, families feel at ease – children dance along to the music from a safe distance and the community vibe encourages making new friends.
Each day of Bonfest brings something special. Catch legendary headliners on the main stage under floodlights, or discover a hidden gem on a side stage. Food trucks and market stalls offer bites and trinkets; feel free to break away for a short rest in the fresh air before diving back into the music. When the final chords ring out late Sunday night, there is a shared sense of joy and fulfillment – not just from having heard great music, but from being part of a tight-knit crowd united by the love of rock. If you have never experienced a Scottish rock festival, Bonfest promises to be memorable, welcoming and downright fun. Rock on, Bonfest style!
Kirriemuir is easily reached by car via the main A90. From Dundee, it is just over 17 miles (about a 30-minute drive) north, while Edinburgh is roughly 75 miles away (around 1 hour 45 minutes on the motorway). Glasgow is about 100 miles southwest, roughly a two-hour drive. The festival site provides ample free parking; simply set your sat-nav to postcode DD8 5PF. Driving here lets you enjoy the scenic Angus countryside and arrive on your own schedule before the music starts.
If you prefer public transport, the nearest train station is Dundee. ScotRail runs frequent services to Dundee from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen (journeys typically take 1 to 2 hours). From Dundee station you can catch a Stagecoach bus north to Kirriemuir – routes 20 or 21A take roughly an hour through the countryside – or grab a taxi for the 20 to 30-minute drive up the A90. Checking the latest bus and train timetables in advance will help your visit go smoothly.
The nearest airports are Dundee (a small regional airport with limited flights) and the larger hubs of Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow. From Edinburgh or Glasgow airports, many visitors hire a car or take a train to Dundee, then continue north by bus. From Aberdeen Airport, Kirriemuir is about a 1.5-hour drive via the A90. All of these airports offer international and domestic flights. You might even enjoy the scenic train journey from Edinburgh or Glasgow to Dundee, then head north into Angus by road.
For accommodation, many visitors camp on-site in Bonfest's official camping area (with toilets, showers and 24-hour security). If camping is not your thing, Kirriemuir and the surrounding area have plenty of options. Kirriemuir itself has a handful of B&Bs and small hotels, and nearby Forfar (just 15 minutes away by car) offers larger hotels and guesthouses. The city of Dundee, about 30 minutes south, has the most lodging choices and amenities. It is wise to reserve lodging early, as places can fill up quickly around the festival date.
| Name | Star | Distance | Prices From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chapelbank Hotel | 1.4 ml | £60.00 | Book | |
| Church House Bed and Breakfast | 3.5 ml | £45.00 | Book |
Nr Dundee, nr Dundee, DD85PF
Similar festivals
