The University of Aberdeen held its fifth annual May Festival over the weekend, and thousands of visitors enjoyed the wide variety of events on offer.
Over the course of the weekend, the University welcomed members of the public to its campuses and buildings at Old Aberdeen and Foresterhill, where they heard from the likes of TV personality Sir Tony Robinson, Call the Midwife star and Aberdeen alumna Laura Main, and Man Booker Prize nominee Wyl Menmuir.
The festival, which is part of Aberdeen’s Festivals Collective initiative, boasted more than 150 events encompassing themes including Music, Science, Current Affairs Food and Drink, and Word.
Throughout the weekend there were talks, workshops and free drop-in events taking place at the Old Aberdeen campus as well as at Foresterhill, where scientists from the Rowett Institute were on hand to demonstrate how they can adapt everyday foods such as bread and yoghurt in a bid to improve health.
Once again, research being conducted by University staff and students featured in the ever popular Discover theme which gave visitors the chance to explore and discuss current research through workshops, exhibitions, debates and talks.
On Saturday, Elphinstone Hall was home to the festival’s Produce Market with a number of local companies including Cambus O’May, Aurora Juice, Ola Oils and Zuppa providing samples of their tasty treats. On Sunday the same venue was transformed into the ‘Hall of Mayhem’ with children (and adults!) enjoying some interactive, hands-on fun.
Iain Brotchie, communications manager Total E&P UK, said: “Total was very proud to support the 2017 May Festival and congratulates everyone for successfully delivering a weekend of events that attracted such high numbers of visitors to Old Aberdeen. The Festival captured visitors imaginations, sparked curiosity and satisfied everyone’s thirst for knowledge thanks to the expertly presented programme of talks, workshops and musical concerts.”
Lottie Rodger, festival manager, added: “Once again we have had an absolutely fantastic weekend on campus, with thousands of people attending the festival.
“There was a brilliant atmosphere on campus all weekend and the enthusiasm of all our staff, students and volunteers helped to make it a memorable experience for all those who attended.
“We would like to thank our sponsors for their generous support and for helping us to put on such a great festival.”
ENDS