After a truly special Festival in June, we are now starting to prepare for Refugee Festival Scotland 2027, which will run from 11 – 20 June. 

Here are key opportunities and what to expect in the coming months: 

Early September: Artists Professional Development Programme

Applications open: 8 September 

We are delighted to announce a new programme that will support a cohort of five New Scot artists or collectives from across Scotland, through mentoring, peer learning and opportunities to connect with Scotland’s cultural sector. Artists will also be supported to develop and present work as part of Refugee Festival Scotland 2027. 

This opportunity replaces the Arts Open programme and is presented as part of RELATE, a new programme supporting New Scot artists to develop their creative journeys as part of wider communities of practice. RELATE is supported by the Scottish Government’s Expanded Festivals Fund through Creative Scotland. 

Early autumn: Opening Shot

Applications open: 12 October 

In early autumn, applications will open for Opening Shot, a programme for first-time filmmakers. Four applicants will be selected to take part in structured workshops and receive production funding and support to make a new short film. The films will be premiered at a public screening in June as part of Refugee Festival Scotland. 

Opening Shot is presented in collaboration with Astar Media. Funded by Screen Scotland through their Talent Builder Initiative, with support from National Lottery funds and the Scottish Government. 

November-December: 2027 Festival announcement, event registration and Small Grants programme 

In early November, we will present a series of prompts to inspire events for the 2027 Festival.  

Event registration for Refugee Festival Scotland 2027 will open in early December and close in late March.  

Groups and organisations will also be able to apply for Small Grants funding from early December until mid-February, to help cover event costs.  

We look forward to all your contributions to next year’s Festival!

Image credit: Kamila Aitzhanova @kamilaportraits