Culture Night Stirling at The National Wallace Monument
Stories, creativity, flavours, and Stirling’s skyline after hours.
***Please note all tickets are now sold out for this event. But do keep an eye on our social media channels for further updates.***
What is Culture Night Stirling?
Taking place across Stirling and the surrounding areas, Culture Night Stirling is an annual event for everyone that celebrates the city’s thriving cultural scene.
Building on the success of the Culture Night at Stirling Castle in May 2025, which was a centrepiece of Stirling’s 900th anniversary finale celebrations, this first event will take place on Friday 1 May 2026. It aims to connect a range of communities and showcase the best of Stirling’s music, dance, comedy, art, crafts, literature, food and drink, and much more.
Visitor attractions, including The National Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle, along with Tolbooth, The Albert Halls, and other venues and businesses across the city and beyond are all taking part in this night-time cultural takeover. The event takes inspiration from similar events held in Ireland, Iceland and the Netherlands.
People are encouraged to attend as many free events as they can throughout the night as there will be lots to not to be missed!
Why is the theme Carnival of the Wolf?
The wolf is one of Stirling’s most famous tales, dating back to the 9th century, when the town stood at the border of rival kingdoms. As Vikings crept up the crag under cover of darkness, a pack of wolves began to howl, alerting the townsfolk and saving Stirling from attack!
This is the story that inspires Stirling’s first Culture Night, Carnival of the Wolf.
In 2026, the Wolf returns, not as a single story, but as Carnival of the Wolf: a celebration of creativity, transformation, and community spirit across Stirling and its surrounding areas. The wolf serves as inspiration for a range of different events which will be brought to life on Friday 1st of May.
Our Event at The National Wallace Monument
Step inside Stirling’s most iconic landmark after hours and experience the National Wallace Monument as you’ve never seen it before. For one special evening, the Monument comes alive with storytelling, creativity, and local flavour. Watch as dusk settles over the city and you’ll enjoy 360° views night time falls.
Join our storytellers as they bring to life the tale of William Wallace and the legendary Wolf of Stirling, a story woven deep into the city’s folklore.
There will be a creative pop‑ups from local artist and maker, Zoe from Cured Luxury Goods, who will guide visitors in how she crafted her unique wolf ‘Worrywart‘ model. Plus, indulge your sweet tooth with Ochil Fudge, who’ll be offering delicious samples from their handcrafted range of local treats.
From 6pm to 8pm, wander the Monument at your own pace, soak up the stories, meet the makers, and watch the City shift colours from the top of the Crown.
It’s a night of culture, creativity, and magic, all within the walls of Stirling’s national icon.
#CarnivalOfTheWolf
Friday 1st May, 6pm to 8pm
Tickets: FREE*
*Tickets are limited to a maximum of 4 tickets per person.
**All tickets must be pre-booked in advance, there will be no availability on the night. This event is suitable for 12+.
