The 'welcoming' Scottish Refugee Festival that shows how food can unite us
Running from 13 – 22 June, the festival will showcase the enriching diversity of cuisine and cultures in Scotland and bring communities together to connect – fuelled by the power of food.
From enjoying the comforting aroma of freshly brewed East African coffee, to trying traditional Ukrainian dishes, and combining Arabic food with learning the language, attendees can expect to have their hearts and minds nourished, just as much as their bodies.
Among the many multicultural food-focused events set to take place is A Taste of Home. For those looking for a hands-on approach to exploring culture through food, this event in Glasgow on Sunday 15 June is a must.
Led by Africa Délice, this cooking class will teach attendees how to prepare authentic African dishes, while sharing stories and cultural insights.
Sharing Food, Sharing Languages will host interactive culinary workshops, where participants can learn about and taste traditional dishes from Afghanistan, Syria, Ukraine, and other countries around the world.
Taking place in Inverness' Eden Court on Sunday 22 June, attendees will also be able to take part in unique language tasters led by native speakers of Pashto, Dari, Arabic, Ukrainian, Turkish, and more. The event will also feature folk music, poetry, and traditional costumes to top off a rich, immersive cultural experience.
In Saltcoats, Taste of Ukraine will be taking people on a mouth-watering journey of Ukraine's culinary heritage.
From savoury varenyky (dumplings) to aromatic borscht and sweet treats, there will be something for everyone to enjoy, all lovingly prepared by New Scots who have settled in the community.
The Eritrean Coffee Ceremony on Friday 13 June in Glasgow is perfect for anyone looking for a caffeine hit with a blend of culture.
This event is more than just a coffee tasting; it's an immersive experience in a place of peace and support. Guests will enjoy the rich flavours and aromas of traditional Eritrean coffee, while connecting with others through storytelling in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Global eats will meet global beats for Glasgow's Refugee Festival Barbecue on Saturday 21 June, where delicious Afro-Caribbean food, music, dance and games combine in a welcoming and inclusive, LGBTQ friendly environment.
Saturday 21 June also sees Seeds of New Beginnings offer a unique mix of garden-inspired recipes, herbal medicine, and multicultural cuisines. Attendees can celebrate the launch of The Healing Garden Group's new seasonal recipe calendar while soaking in the creative arts and activities in Pollokshields.
Words of Welcome in Falkirk will give people the chance to learn basic Arabic phrases, explore Arabic script, and enjoy some flavourful Syrian community food on Monday 16 June.
On the same day, in Kinning Park, Milestones & Meals will blend food with art and storytelling. Attendees will have the chance to celebrate the journeys and achievements of
New Scots through shared meals and experience an exhibition featuring photography, illustrations and written work, and can take home a beautifully designed cook book to try the dishes at home.
These events are among more than 150 activities spanning food, dance, film and more, taking place across the country for Refugee Festival Scotland's 25th year, celebrating decades of cultural enrichment, renewal and welcome, made possible by providing sanctuary in Scotland.
The 2025 theme – Milestones – encourages people to remember past decades, reflect on the present, and look towards the future as they mark individual and collective milestones.
Refugee Festival Scotland manager, Mónica Laiseca said: 'The Refugee Festival Scotland programme provides a chance to explore and celebrate culture and new Scots communities in many different ways, including through our tastebuds.
'These events are not just about food – they are about connection and provide an opportunity to meet new people and experience the warmth that comes from sitting down for a meal or sharing a cup of coffee together.
'I would encourage people to bring their appetite and embrace this chance to savour new foodie experiences across Scotland.'
Kirsty D'Ambrosio from Highland Council, who is involved in the Sharing Food, Sharing Languages event, added: 'I believe that migrants and refugees bring skills, expertise and cultural heritage that enriches our communities.
'This event offers an opportunity to bring together New Scots and host communities, to break down barriers, promote cross cultural understanding and connect through shared interests and passions.'
Refugee Festival Scotland is produced by Scottish Refugee Council and runs from 13 – 22 June 2025.
Full programme details are now online here.
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