Oban Lesbian Weekend 2026: Scotland’s Inclusive LGBTQ+ Gathering Returns

Oban Lesbian Weekend, now approaching its sixth year in 2026, has established itself as Scotland’s premier LGBTQ+ women’s festival, intentionally welcoming lesbian, bisexual, queer, transgender, and non-binary people, as well as allies, to the scenic town of Oban on Scotland’s west coast . The event is explicitly trans-inclusive and emphasizes a policy of kindness and respect, eschewing rigid definitions of identity in favor of a welcoming environment for all LGBTQ+ women and non-binary attendees .

Located about 90 miles from Glasgow, Oban serves as a gateway to the Hebrides and has become an unexpected hub for LGBTQ+ community events. The town’s picturesque seafront, historic castles, and fresh seafood have long been draws for travelers, but Oban Lesbian Weekend has added another dimension, with previous attendees describing the festival as a transformative experience and hailing Oban as “the new LGBTQ capital of Scotland” .

The 2026 weekend will feature a full schedule, blending social events, live entertainment, and opportunities for personal growth. Highlights include:

- Live performances from LGBTQ+ bands and DJs, including previous favorites such as DJ Sandra D, Alabaster Queen, and local icons like DJ Trendy Wendy .

- The signature women’s ceilidh with the ArdMhor Ceilidh Band, a dance event renowned for its joyful spirit and inclusive nature, where both newcomers and seasoned dancers are encouraged to join .

- Workshops on topics such as neurodiversity, relationship diversity , photography, and outdoor skills, reflecting the community’s diverse interests .

- Outdoor activities like wildlife boat trips, queer cruises to nearby islands, paddleboarding, sea swimming, and scenic hikes, all with the necessary gear and guidance provided, ensuring accessibility for all activity levels .

A core strength of Oban Lesbian Weekend is its commitment to ensuring that solo attendees feel supported and included. According to organizers, around 70% of participants attend alone, but dedicated icebreaker games, small group dinners, and a warm, attentive crew quickly dissolve any initial nerves . Testimonials from previous years highlight the festival’s accessible and friendly atmosphere, with special efforts made for attendees with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals .

Oban Lesbian Weekend’s reputation for inclusivity and excellence has been recognized by several awards, including an Outstanding Recognition Award at the Proud Scotland Travel Awards . The festival’s organizers continue to reframe the term “lesbian” as a broad, inclusive umbrella, in line with the evolving language and identities within the LGBTQ+ community .

With early bird tickets for 2026 already on sale and a growing international profile, Oban Lesbian Weekend is poised to continue its mission of fostering queer joy, connection, and visibility in Scotland and beyond . Attendees can anticipate another year of memorable events, new friendships, and a celebration of LGBTQ+ identities in one of the country’s most beautiful settings.