4 February
New report highlights major economic and social benefits brought by NBAF to local community.
New report highlights major economic and social benefits brought by Nairn Book and Arts Festival to local community.
The Nairn Book and Arts Festival has revealed the scale of its positive impact on Nairn and the wider Moray Firth area, with the publication of a new Economic and Social Impact (ESI) Report.
The independently commissioned report shows that during the 2024–25 Festival year alone, the Festival generated an estimated £221,438 of direct economic input into the local economy, alongside wide-ranging social, cultural and wellbeing benefits for people of all ages.
Founded in 2003, the Nairn Book and Arts Festival has grown into a cornerstone of cultural life in Nairnshire. During the 2025 Festival, which ran for nine days and delivered 91 events, 6,024 people attended, with audiences drawn from across the Highlands, Moray, the rest of Scotland, the wider UK and overseas.
Survey responses from 777 participants revealed that 98% rated events as excellent or very good, while over 90% said the Festival strengthened community spirit.
Professor Ronald Skeldon, Chair of the Nairn Book and Arts Festival, said:
“This report paints a powerful picture of the many benefits – both tangible and intangible – that the Festival brings to Nairn. Alongside clear economic gains for local businesses, it demonstrates real social impact through improved wellbeing, community connection and opportunities for learning and volunteering. As we enter our 23rd year, we are proud of what the Festival contributes and excited to build on this success for the future.”
To read the full report, please go to the following link.
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