Sport brings people together in ways few other things can. Whether you love football, cricket, cycling or simply being outdoors with your community, this year’s Refugee Festival Scotland is packed with energetic, joyful events that celebrate teamwork, wellbeing and connection. Here are ten brilliant ways to get active and get involved. 

1. Football Tournament for Refugees and Asylum Seekers  

When: Saturday 14 June, 10am–4pm 

Where: Change Centre Dundee South Rd, Dundee DD2 4SR

Teams from refugee and asylum‑seeking communities come together for a friendly but competitive day of football. Expect great energy, teamwork and a brilliant atmosphere as players of all backgrounds take to the pitch. Spectators are warmly encouraged to cheer them on. 

2. United Through Cricket  

When: Sunday 14 June, 12–8pm 

 Where: Inverleith park, Inverleith Place, Edinburgh

A family‑friendly cricket celebration bringing together New Scots and local communities. Whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new to the sport, come along for friendly matches, coaching sessions and a welcoming space to connect through play. 

3. Community Football Match and Celebration  

When: Saturday 13 June, 2–7pm 

 Where: Glasgow Green, Glasgow 

Join local residents, New Scots and community groups for a joyful afternoon of football. The match is open to all abilities and is followed by a celebration honouring the power of sport to bring people together. 

4. EKIN Community Football Festival  

When: Saturday 20 June, 1–7pm 

Where: K Park Training Academy, Calderglen Park Strathaven Roast, East Kilbride

A lively football festival hosted by EKIN, featuring friendly matches, kids’ activities and opportunities to meet neighbours from across the city. A great day out for families and football fans alike. 

5. Cycling Session and Picnic with Women on Wheels  

When: Tuesday 16 June, 11am–1pm 

 Where: Women on Wheels, Govanhill Workspace, Unit 4, 69 Dixon Road, Glasgow

Women from refugee and migrant backgrounds are invited to enjoy a relaxed cycling session led by Women on Wheels. Bikes and helmets are provided, and the day ends with a friendly community picnic. 

6. Unity Through Play  

When: Saturday 14 June, 12–4pm 

 Where: World of Football, Edinburgh

A fun‑filled day of a six-a-side mini football tournament between six teams made up of people from the asylum system, refugees and people from the local community. This activity is in collaboration with Passion4Fusion. There will be room for spectators and basic refreshments provided.

7. The Snow Leopards IX v The Dollar Cricket Club  

When: Wednesday 17 June, 6–9pm 

 Where: Dollar Academy – Cricket Pitch Dollar, FK14 7DU

The event is staged on the beautiful Dollar Academy cricket pitch in Dollar. We are welcoming the Afghan side who reside in the Forth Valley area to this return annual fixture as part of the Refugee Festival Scotland. Last year the Snow Leopards won by 25 runs and so the hosts are eager to take the trophy back!

8. Amazing Summer Madness  

When: Saturday 20 June, 10am–6pm 

 Where: Kelvin West Parish Church, 77 Southpark Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8LE 

The International Welcome Club of Kelvin West Church will offer:

10am – 12noon FACTS: Refugee MAZE – follow the footsteps to find the truth.

2pm – 4pm FASHION: See a parade of people wearing their country’s traditional dress.

4pm – 6pm FUN: Play indoor CURLING – a great family game which is competitive and addictive.

Join us to learn, see, and enjoy! No need to register.

9. New Scots Summer Cricket (د نوو سکاټلنډیانو د اوړي د کرکټ فستیوال)  

When: Sunday 21 June, 11–4pm 

 Where: Bailliefields Community Hub, Sunnyside Road, Brightons, Falkirk, FK2 0RN

Come and celebrate a fun, inclusive, and social day at Bailliefields Community Hub, where cricket brings people of all ages and backgrounds together. This special event is part of the Scotland Refugee Festival, showcasing the power of sport, culture, and community connection.

Enjoy a range of cricket activities suitable for everyone, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced player. Meet local players, join in friendly games, and experience the welcoming spirit that defines our community.

10. Game On

When: Sunday 14 June, 2–5pm 

 Where: Inverness (contact organisaers for address details)

Join us for Game On – a community sports day and picnic in Inverness for young refugees, asylum seekers and the local community. The sports day will include a football tournament, frisbee, group games, traditional Highland games, traditional games from the home countries of the Youth Leaders — all designed to promote confidence, teamwork, and connection. The day will finish with a community picnic, offering space for conversation and socialising

Check out the full festival programme to see what else is happening near you. 

Refugee Festival Scotland 2026 is made possible with support from the National Lottery through Creative Scotland and Film Hub Scotland, part of the BFI’s Film Audience Network, awarding funding on behalf of Screen Scotland and the BFI National Lottery.