Events Blog

An Explorer's Guide to Welcome Week

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:57:03 +0100

New city, new country, new adventure... let's explore. If you’re an international student or just new to Edinburgh, Welcome Week is the perfect chance to get out, look around, and start feeling at home. Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association (ENSA) has curated events designed to help you experience the city’s charm, culture, and hidden gems, all while making new friends along the way.

Think guided city walks, visits to tourist attractions, picnics, scavenger hunts, and a trip to the famous Highland Games. Whether you're here for a semester or the next few years, this guide is your starting point to discovering what makes Edinburgh such a special place to live and study.

Pack your camera, wear comfy shoes, and get ready to explore.

Saturday 5th September

Arthur’s Seat Walk, 12pm @ Scottish Parliament Building

Hike up Edinburgh's iconic Arthur's Seat! A perfect way to take a break and enjoy some fresh air and must-see views. This walk is open to all students who want to connect with nature, boost their mental wellbeing, and meet new friends.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, this walk is suitable for most fitness levels. We’ll take it at a comfortable pace and take breaks during steeper inclines. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle and a snack!

Click here for tickets.

Coffee & Book Crawl, 2pm @ Uplands Roast

Grab your comfiest shoes and get ready to discover Edinburgh's cosiest bookshops and cafes - it's time for a book crawl! We’ll be kicking things off at Uplands Roast with a hot drink in hand, then heading on a guided wander through the city’s iconic sights, stopping in at the coolest bookshops Edinburgh has to offer.

Click here for tickets!

Sunday 6th September

International Students’ Picnic, 12pm @ Calton Hill

Bring a snack, make a friend, and share a little piece of home! Join us for an International Students' Picnic, an afternoon of food, fun, and new faces from around the world!

Feel free to bring along your favourite snack, dish, or dessert to share, and definitely come ready to swap stories and recipes.

Click here for tickets!

Monday 7th September

Sighthill Garden Party, 1pm @ Sighthill Campus

Do you study at Sighthill? Get ready to celebrate the start of uni with your students' union ENSA! Expect an exciting afternoon with lawn games, alpacas, ice cream, painting and a chill space to hang out and make new friends at your campus.

Please note this event is not the same scale as Napier Fest, and we encourage all students to join us for that as well!

Click here for tickets!

Tuesday 8th September

Welcome Fair, 10am-3pm @ The Corn Exchange

Don’t miss Scotland’s biggest Welcome Fair, the ultimate place to kickstart your active student life at Napier! With around 150 stalls to explore, you’ll find exclusive deals, freebies, and the inside scoop on all the sports clubs and societies waiting for you. Whether you’re into sports, arts, culture - or just want to find something new - this is your chance to meet the people behind Napier’s societies, ask questions, and discover how to get involved.

Get ready to dive into the vibrant, active side of Napier and make the most of everything student life has to offer!

Click here for tickets.

Napier Ceilidh, 8pm @ Ghillie Dhu

Don yer kilts and fancy dresses, it's time for a ceilidh! Come along for an elegant night of Scottish music and dance - don't worry, we'll teach you all the steps!

Taking place at the famous Ghillie Dhu ceilidh venue, expect fantastic live music, gorgeous decor and an in-house bar, including a welcome drink (soft drink for those under 18). This is a great event for international students (and from other parts of the UK) to embrace Scottish culture!

Click here for tickets.

Wednesday 9th September

International Students’ Meetup, 12pm @ Craiglockhart Campus

New to Napier, just moved to Scotland or just want to meet new people? This meet up is open to all International Students at any campus! We're going to do a session of speed friending, which is an "icebreaker" social event where you get the opportunity to introduce yourself to different people while a timer keeps things moving. Similar to "speed dating", only with the goal to find pals rather than someone to date. Then you can chat to anyone, get a coffee, and hang around as long as you'd like. We recommend using this event to make friends to enjoy Napier Fest with which starts just after this.

Click here for tickets!

Napier Fest, 1-4pm @ Craiglockhart Lawn

Starting a new chapter in your academic journey? Join your Students' Association as we welcome postgraduates and undergraduates alike to a fun-filled afternoon designed to help you connect, unwind, and celebrate the start of the year.

Expect carnival games, inflatables, a petting zoo, candy floss, and more. Whether you're new to campus or returning for another year, it’s a great chance to meet fellow students from all courses and campuses in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Click here for tickets!

Thursday 10th September

Merchifest, 12pm-2pm @ Merchiston Campus

Studying at Merchiston? Come along for a fun afternoon with games, therapy ponies (Theraponies, if you will), food and music, all on your home campus! Make new friends and get to know your campus with your Students’ Association, ENSA.

Click here for tickets!

Sightseeing Jogging Tour, 3pm @ Merchiston Campus

Lace up your running shoes and join us for an afternoon run through the city to see the sights! This event is open to all abilities, and we can take breaks as needed. Learn new routes to run on, see the beautiful City of Edinburgh and meet like-minded, active friends.

Click here for tickets!

Friday 11th September

Culture Crawl, 1pm @ National Gallery, The Mound

Join us for a day of exploring some of the city’s most vibrant museums and galleries, all while soaking in the unique atmosphere of Edinburgh. We will be starting at the National Gallery, then exploring the Fruitmarket Gallery and the National Museum, with a stop at Black Medicine for coffee along the way!

This free, open-to-all event is perfect for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Edinburgh’s cultural gems. Come alone or bring your pals and comfortable shoes!

Click here for tickets!

Edinburgh Castle Visit, 3pm @Edinburgh Castle

Explore Edinburgh Castle with a small group of other Napier students and learn about exciting tales of its time as a military fortress, royal residence and prison of war. When you climb Castle Hill, you will walk in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens – and even the odd pirate or two.

Click here for tickets.

Saturday 12th September

Pitlochry Highland Games, 8am @ Merchiston Campus

Experience the traditions of Scotland at the Pitlochry Highland Games!

Join us for a day trip to Pitlochry, 70 miles north of Edinburgh, for a day filled with traditional Scottish festivities, a huge bagpipe and drums parade, sports competitions like 'tossing the caber', Highland dancing, and traditional food!

Click here for tickets.

Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt, 11pm or 12pm @ Cockburn Street

Embark on an exciting 3-hour adventure through the historic streets of Old Town Edinburgh with our Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt‍. Follow the clues and immerse yourselves in a thrilling quest to unravel the mystery and claim the title of ultimate detectives! The route finishes outside the Tolbooth Tavern, 167 Canongate - a great spot for a celebratory refreshment!

*Note: This is the same route as last year - if you have been before, we don't recommend joining the hunt again!

Click here for tickets.

Sunday 13th September

Charity Shop Crawl, 2pm @ Potterrow

Get ready for an afternoon of awesome finds and hidden gems, filling in the bits of your wardrobe you forgot to bring with you. The route involves a short walk in a student-dense area, so you're guaranteed to find some exciting, trending pieces!

Click here for tickets.

Enjoy Welcome Week and don't forget to check out the other events coming up! You can do that here.

A Chill Guide to Welcome Week

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:35:11 +0100

Starting university can feel like a whirlwind, but it doesn’t have to. If you’re more into laid-back vibes than loud parties, don’t worry we’ve got you. Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association (ENSA) has planned a week full of easy-going, feel-good events to help you settle in, meet new people, and ease into student life at your own pace.

From cozy coffee hangouts and creative workshops to yoga sessions and boardgame nights, this guide highlights the most relaxed and welcoming ways to spend your first week on campus. Whether you're new to Edinburgh or just looking for low-key ways to connect, here’s your chilled-out roadmap to a great start.

Sunday 6th September

Residences Pizza Night, 6pm @ Bainfield Common Room

For those at our Napier residences, this event is the perfect cosy night in. Expect chill icebreakers and boardgames, and we’ll bring the pizza – just bring your flatmates (or come alone!) and enjoy a relaxed, chill night with your new mates.

Click here for tickets!

Saturday, 5th September

Napier Pub Quiz, 6pm @ The Three Sisters

Think you’ve got the smarts to take home the prize? Our Napier Quiz Night at The Three Sisters is your chance to prove it. Expect a mix of fun questions, friendly competition, and awesome prizes as you and your team test your knowledge on all things Napier—and a few wild cards beyond.

Come with your flatmates, bring your club or society crew, or just turn up and join a team on the night. It’s a relaxed, social evening that’s perfect for meeting new people and having a laugh over a drink.

Click here for tickets!

Monday, 7th September

Sighthill Garden Party, 1pm @ Sighthill Campus

Sighthill, get ready to celebrate the start of uni with your students' union ENSA! Expect an exciting afternoon with lawn games, alpacas, ice cream, painting and a chill space to hang out and make new friends at your campus. This event is open to students at any campus, but Sighthill students are especially welcome!

Please note this event is not the same scale as Napier Fest, and we encourage all students to join us for that as well.

Click here for tickets!

First Years’ Speed Friending, 5pm @ Three Sisters Union Bar

New to Napier or just want to meet new people in your first year at university? Our Speed Friending session is designed especially for you. It’s a fun, relaxed way to introduce yourself to lots of fellow students in quick, timed chats, kind of like speed dating, but with the goal of making friends, not dates. Whether you’re new to Edinburgh or looking to expand your social circle, it’s the perfect low-pressure environment to build connections and find your new study or coffee crew.

There are several speed friending sessions available.

Get your ticket here.

Boardgame & Pizza Night, 6pm @ Three Sisters Union Bar

Come along for an evening of boardgames and free pizza at Napier’s official Student Union Bar! Come by yourself, bring your friends and flatmates, or stick around with those you meet at the Speed Friending event right before this one, for an evening full of chill fun. Drinks will be available to purchase at the bar, so bring student ID to make the most of your discount!

Click here for tickets!

Tuesday, 8th September

Welcome Fair, 10am- Corn Exchange

Don’t miss Scotland’s biggest Welcome Fair, the ultimate place to kickstart your active student life at Napier! With around 150 stalls to explore, you’ll find exclusive deals, freebies, and the inside scoop on all the sports clubs and societies waiting for you. Whether you’re into creative arts, reading, or just want to find something new, this is your chance to meet the people behind Napier’s societies, ask questions, and discover how to get involved.

Get ready to dive into the vibrant side of Napier and make the most of everything student life has to offer!

Click here for tickets.

Wednesday, 9th September

Napier Fest, 1pm @ Craiglockhart Lawn

Expect carnival games, inflatables, a petting zoo, candy floss, and more—yes, really! Whether you're new to campus or returning for another year, it’s a great chance to meet fellow students from all courses and campuses in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Click here for tickets!

Thursday, 10th September

Commuter Coffee Morning, 10am @ Merchiston Apex

Commuters, we know it's a longer morning for you - come along for a wee social caffeine hit at the Merchiston Apex, and meet new friends who also live outside of the city. This is a laid back event for you to kick back and enjoy a hot drink on us. Free ticket required to claim your coffee!

Click here for tickets.

Thursday, 10th September

Merchifest, 12pm @ Merchiston Campus

Click here for tickets.

NSFF Film Screening, 3pm @ B55 Merchiston Campus

Looking for a cozy, creative activity? Settle in for an afternoon of student-made cinema at our Film Festival Night! We’ll be showcasing a selection of standout short films from the Napier Student Film Festival, featuring works by talented Napier students as well as winners from other institutions.

Whether you’re a cinephile or just want a relaxed evening to hang out with new friends, this is your chance to get inspired, enjoy some popcorn, and maybe even get inspired to create your own masterpiece!

This event will be run as a hybrid, meaning you can watch along at home if you can’t make it in person.

Click here for tickets!

Friday, 11th September

Queer Picnic in the Meadows, 2pm @ The Meadows

Every ENSA event is a welcoming and safe space for students of all identities, but this one is especially for our LGBTQ+ students and allies - come as you are, bring some snacks if you'd like, and connect with others in a friendly, laid-back setting. We'll bring along some board games and cards too.

Click here for tickets!

Sip & Paint, 6:30pm @ Teviot

Get creative over a drink! Whether you're an aspiring artist or just looking to unwind and meet other students, this event promises a chill evening of fun. Canvases, paint, and brushes will be provided as part of your ticket.

Click here for tickets!

Saturday, 12th September

Craft Club (Bring Your Own Craft with Girls Craft Club), 10am @ Levels Cafe

Hosted by the Girls Craft Club Edinburgh, come along for a relaxed session to hang out with other crafters and work on any creative project you've got. This space is for everything from drawing to scrapbooking, knitting to painting - if it's creative, bring it along! Coffee and food are available from the cafe at your own expense.

Click here for tickets!

Queer Cocktails, 8pm @ The Dog House

All ENSA events are open to everybody, but this evening is especially for our LGBTQ+ students and allies to come along for an exciting evening at one of Edinburgh's coolest bars. Enjoy the cocktail and mocktail menu and make friends with fellow students – expect banger tunes, awesome decor and good vibes for days. Vegan food (chippy-style) is also served at this location.

Click here for tickets!

Sunday, 13th September

Charity Shop Crawl, 2pm @ Potterrow

Click here for tickets.

Enjoy Welcome Week and don't forget to check out all events for the year here!

A Night Out Guide for Welcome Week

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:59:14 +0100

New city, new mates, new nights out. If you're ready to make memories after dark, ENSA’s got you covered. Whether you're into club nights, pub quizzes, bingo, or just vibing with new friends over a drink, this guide is your go-to for the best evening events during Welcome Week.

Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association (ENSA) has put together a line-up of nights designed to help you have fun, meet people, and get a taste of the city’s legendary nightlife. From laid-back socials to high-energy dance floors, there’s something for every kind of night owl.

So, grab your flatmates, plan your outfits, and get ready to experience the after-hours side of uni life.

Saturday, 5th September

Napier Pub Quiz, 6pm @ The Three Sisters

Click here for tickets!

Sunday, 6th September

Pre-Welcome Party Mixer, 8.30pm @ Three Sisters

Want to kick off the Welcome Party by meeting a bunch of new people, fast? Our Speed Friending session at the Union Bar is the perfect pre-party social. It’s like speed dating, but with zero romance pressure and way more potential for finding your new pub quiz partner, club night crew, or flatmate BFF.

You’ll chat with lots of different people in quick, timed rounds, swapping stories, laughs, and maybe even a few weekend plans. Open to students from all years and degrees, it’s a relaxed, welcoming way to break the ice.

Click here for tickets.

Napier Welcome Party, 10pm-late @ Liquid Rooms

Dig out your low-rise jeans and dust off your flip phones - it’s time to party like it’s 2008! Kick off Welcome Week with our biggest throwback club night, packed with bangers from the late 2000's up until today. We know you still know all the lyrics! Think Rihanna, Timbaland, Avril, and plenty of neon – this isn’t one to miss.

Click here for tickets!

Monday, 7th September

Boardgame & Pizza Night, 6pm @ Three Sisters Union Bar

Come along for an evening of boardgames and free pizza at Napier’s union bar! Come by yourself or bring your friends and flatmates for an evening of chill fun. Drinks will be available to purchase at the bar, so bring student ID to make the most of your discount!

Click here for tickets!

Tuesday, 8th September

Napier Ceilidh, 8pm @ Ghillie Dhu

Don yer kilts and fancy dresses, it's time for a ceilidh! Come along for an elegant night of Scottish music and dance - don't worry, we'll teach you all the steps!

Taking place at the famous Ghillie Dhu ceilidh venue, expect fantastic live music, gorgeous decor and an in-house bar, including a welcome drink (soft drink for those under 18). Whether this is your first ceilidh or you've been learning the steps since you were old enough to walk, everybody is welcome at this event!

Click here for tickets!

Wednesday, 9th September

Drag Bingo, 7pm @ Three Sisters Live Room

This isn't your grandma's bingo night, babe; join us for a night of fierce competition and slay the night away with a bingo sesh hosted by Lacy Rain - guaranteed to eat with no crumbs. Whether you’re a fresher still finding your crew or a third-year who needs a wild midweek, this is everyone’s moment to shine.

Click here for tickets.

Karaoke, 10pm @ Three Sisters Live Room

Don’t let the night end after Drag Bingo – go crazy with a classic karaoke event hosted by the Three Sisters straight after we pack up our bingo dabbers. Guaranteed to be a banger night out, will you bring Beyoncé or Gaga to the table? The stage is yours!

Click here for tickets!

Thursday, 10th September

Napier Pub Crawl, 6pm @ Teviot, Potterrow

Some call it a rite of passage, others just call it “the best night of the year.” The Legendary Annual Pub Crawl is back, and it’s ready to take you on a whistle-stop tour of Edinburgh’s most iconic pubs across the legendary Old Town and Cowgate.

You’ll kick things off with a drink in hand, then hop from venue to venue with your new crew, collecting stories and selfies as you go. You even get a stylish pub crawl cap to wear all night as a badge of honour. The night ends at Westside Rodeo with a country and pop themed after party!

Click here for tickets.

Friday, 11th September

Sip & Paint, 6:30pm @ Teviot, Potterrow

Get creative over a drink! Whether you're an aspiring artist or just looking to unwind and meet other students, this event promises a chill evening of fun. Canvases, paint, and brushes will be provided as part of your ticket.

Click here for tickets!

Saturday, 12th September

Queer Cocktails, 8pm @ The Dog House

Click here for tickets!

Welcome Week Special ft ALTÉGO, 10pm @Hangar 5, Potterrow

Get ready for a massive party headlined by ALTÉGO! The twin DJ and production duo known for their high-energy sets, viral mashups and dancefloor-ready edits.

Taking over the venue for one huge launch night, expect lasers, confetti, giveaways and big moments from start to finish. This is your chance to meet new people, make more Welcome Week memories and start the year exactly as it should be started, on the dancefloor.

This event is open to under 18s with a different wristband

Get your ticket here.

Sunday, 13th September

NQ64, 6pm @ NQ64

Prepare for a night of retro gaming and banger tunes at NQ64, Edinburgh's very own neon arcade bar. Shred it up on Guitar Hero, thrash your mates at Mario Kart or breeze between retro cabinets and 90s/2000s consoles at your own pace. It's like being a kid again, except now you're WAY better at Pac-Man. Tickets are half price - you get 25 tokens with your ticket!

Click here for tickets!

Red Rodeo Club, 10pm @Hangar 5, Potterrow

Saddle up for a high-energy night of queer line dancing, drag, DJs and party chaos as Red Rodeo Club rides into Potterrow.

Expect easy-to-follow routines, camp country-pop anthems, epic production, runway moments and crowd interaction from start to finish. The show kicks off at 11pm, followed by a late-night afterparty keeping the dancefloor stomping until 3am.

Free cowboy hat giveaways on the night, so grab yours, bring the yeehaw energy, and get ready for one seriously iconic rodeo.

This event is open to under 18s with a different wristband.

Get your ticket here.

Tuesday, 14th September

Chappell vs Charli - Pink Pony vs Brat, 10pm @Hangar 5, Potterrow

Two pop powerhouses. One dancefloor.

It’s Chappell Roan vs Charli XCX in a huge tribute showdown! Brat-green lasers colliding with Pink Pony Club fantasy.

Expect wall-to-wall bangers, hyperpop euphoria, glitter, attitude, and zero chill as top-tier tribute performers go head-to-head.

Pick your side. Lose your voice. Dance the night away. ????

This event is open to under 18s with a different wristband.

Get your ticket here.

There are also more night out events on our events page you can check out here.

An Active Guide to Welcome Week

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:24:07 +0100

Ready to hit the ground running? If you're the kind of student who likes to stay active, try new things, and meet people through movement, this one's for you. Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association (ENSA) has packed Welcome Week with events that’ll get your heart pumping, your energy flowing, and your calendar filling up with fun, active ways to settle into uni life.

Whether you're into outdoor adventures or just looking to try something new, this guide highlights the most energising ways to start your time at Napier.

Let’s move, meet, and make this year one to remember.

Saturday, 5th September

Arthur’s Seat Walk, 12pm @ Scottish Parliament Building

Hike up Edinburgh's iconic Arthur's Seat! A perfect way to take a break and enjoy some fresh air and stunning views. This walk is open to all students who want to connect with nature, boost their mental wellbeing, and meet new friends.

Click here for free tickets

Coffee & Book Crawl, 2pm @ Uplands Roast

Click here for free tickets!

Tuesday 8th

Welcome Fair, 10am-3pm @ The Corn Exchange

Don’t miss Scotland’s biggest Welcome Fair, the ultimate place to kickstart your active student life at Napier! With around 150 stalls to explore, you’ll find exclusive deals, freebies, and the inside scoop on all the sports clubs and societies waiting for you. Whether you’re into football, yoga, running, or something a bit more offbeat, this is your chance to meet the people behind the teams, ask questions, and discover how to get involved.

Get ready to dive into the vibrant, active side of Napier and make the most of everything student life has to offer!

Click here for free tickets.

First Years’ Bowling, 6pm @ TenPin Fountain Park

Are you in First year? What better way to make pals than by thrashing them at bowling? Join us at Fountain Park (opposite the Bainfield accommodation site) for a fun evening of strikes, spares and shameless gutterballs. Bring your flatmates or rock up solo, there's a space for everyone.

Click here for tickets!

Napier Ceilidh, 8pm @ Ghillie Dhu

Don yer kilts and fancy dresses, it's time for a ceilidh! Come along for an elegant night of Scottish music and dance - don't worry, we'll teach you all the steps!

Click here for tickets.

Wednesday, 9th September

Napier Fest, 1pm-4pm @ Craiglockhart Lawn

Click here for free tickets!

Thursday, 10th September

Sightseeing Jogging Tour, 3pm @ Merchiston Campus

Click here for tickets!

Friday, 11th September

Culture Crawl, 1pm @ National Gallery, The Mound

Join us for a day of exploring some of the city’s most vibrant museums and galleries, all while soaking in the unique atmosphere of Edinburgh. We will be starting at the National Gallery, then exploring the Fruitmarket Gallery and the National Museum, with a stop at Black Medicine for coffee along the way!

This free, open-to-all event is perfect for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Edinburgh’s cultural gems. Come alone or bring your pals and comfortable shoes!

Click here for free tickets.

Saturday, 12h September

Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt, 11pm or 12pm @ Cockburn Street

*Note: This is the same route as last year - if you have been before, we don't recommend joining the hunt again!

Click here for free tickets!

Sunday, 13th September

Run, Seamus, Run, 12pm @ Seamus’ Pub

Join us for a 4 mile charity run between Seamus' Pub at Tollcross to Dougal's in Portobello, with a free pint of stout waiting for you at the end. This event is run in partnership with Always Forward, a mental health charity focused on social connection.

Click here for tickets.

Enjoy Welcome Week and don't forget to check out the rest of the programme here.

A Postgrad Guide to Welcome Week

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:01:19 +0100

Welcome to the next chapter. Whether you're diving into research, upskilling for your career, or changing direction entirely, starting a postgrad journey is a big step, and you don’t have to do it alone. During Welcome Week, Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association (ENSA) has lined up events designed specifically with postgrad students in mind.

This guide is here to help you connect with like-minded peers, settle into life at Napier, and make the most of your time both academically and socially. Expect a mix of networking opportunities, calm social spaces, and chances to explore Edinburgh with fellow students who know what it’s like to juggle study, work, and life.

Some of these events are for postgrads and mature students only, while others are open to all students but are postgrad-friendly.

You're not just starting a course... you’re joining a community. Let’s get started.

Monday, 7th September

Postgrad Speed Friending, 12pm @Craiglockhart Campus

New to Napier or just keen to connect with other postgrad and mature students? Our Speed Friending session at is designed especially for you. It’s a fun, relaxed way to introduce yourself to lots of fellow students in quick, timed chats, kind of like speed dating, but with the goal of making friends, not dates. Whether you’re fresh to Edinburgh or looking to expand your social circle, it’s the perfect low-pressure environment to build connections and maybe find your new study or coffee crew.

Click here for free tickets!

Sighthill Garden Party, 1pm @ Sighthill Campus

Please note this event is not the same scale as Napier Fest, and we encourage all students to join us for that as well!

Click here for free tickets.

An Evening at The Edinburgh Bookshop, 6:30pm @ The Edinburgh Bookshop

Get ready for a cosy private shopping event for Napier students at The Edinburgh Bookshop, just round the corner from our Merchiston Campus. The bookshop is yours to explore. Please note that spaces are limited, so make sure you grab a ticket. Any books purchased are at your own expense.

Please note that this event is not exclusive to postgraduates, but is more than suitable!

Click here for free tickets.

Tuesday, 8th September

Welcome Fair, 10am-3pm @ The Corn Exchange

Don’t miss Scotland’s biggest Welcome Fair, even if you have been before. It's the ultimate place to kickstart your active student life at Napier! With around 150 stalls to explore, you’ll find exclusive deals, freebies, and the inside scoop on all the sports clubs and societies waiting for you. Whether you’re into sports, crafts, games, or something a little more niche, this is your chance to meet the people behind Napier’s societies, ask questions, and discover how to get involved.

Get ready to dive into the vibrant, active side of Napier and make the most of everything student life has to offer!

Click here for free tickets.

Postgraduate Cocktail Night, 6pm @ Boston Bar Old Town

Postgraduate students - come along for a chill evening of cocktails and mocktails, with an opportunity to slow down and have a catchup with your fellow postgrads over a drink. All postgraduate and mature students 21+ welcome!

Click here for free tickets.

Wednesday, 9th September

Welcome Fest, 1pm-3pm @ Craiglockhart Lawn

Starting a new chapter in your academic journey? Join the Students' Association as we welcome postgraduates and undergraduates alike to a fun-filled afternoon designed to help you connect, unwind, and celebrate the start of the year.

Expect carnival games, inflatables, a petting zoo, candy floss, and more - yes, really! Whether you're new to campus or returning for another year, it’s a great chance to meet fellow students from all programmes and campuses in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Click here for free tickets!

Thursday, 10th September

Commuter Coffee Morning, 10am @ Merchiston Apex

Are you a commuting postgrad? We know it's a longer morning for you - come along for a wee social caffeine hit at the Merchiston Apex, and meet others living outside of the city.

Click here for tickets!

Merchifest, 12-2pm @ Merchiston Campus

Studying at Merchiston? Come along for a fun afternoon with games, therapy ponies (Theraponies, if you will) and music, all on your home campus! Make new friends and get to know your campus with your Students’ Association, ENSA.

Click here for free tickets!

Napier Pub Crawl, 6pm @ Teviot, Potterrow

There is a special postgrad/mature students group but you can also join any other group in the pub crawl.

Click here for tickets!

Friday, 11th September

Culture Crawl, 1pm @ National Gallery, The Mound

This free, open-to-all event is perfect for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Edinburgh’s cultural gems. Come alone or bring your pals and comfortable shoes!

Click here for free tickets.

Postgrad Social, 12pm @ Merchiston Campus

Postgraduate and mature students, come along for a chill lunchtime social at Merchiston. Grab a coffee at the campus Espresso Lab if you'd like, and have a chat with other postgrads on your campus.

Click here for tickets!

Saturday, 12th September

Craft Club (Bring Your Own Craft with Girls Craft Club), 10am @ Levels Cafe

Click here for tickets!

Sunday, 13th September

Postgrad Brunch, 12pm @ The Chanter

If you are looking for a laid-back way to take a breather from your studies, our Postgrad Brunch at The Chanter is just the ticket. Picture this: great coffee, delicious food, and a relaxed vibe where you can slow down and actually enjoy a chat without the pressure of deadlines looming.

Whether you’re new to Edinburgh or just keen to meet other postgrads, it’s a fantastic chance to connect over some tasty treats and swap stories in a friendly, welcoming spot. Plus, with student discounts, you can treat yourself without breaking the bank.

So why not take a morning off, pull up a chair, and start building your postgrad community in style?

Click here for tickets!

NQ64, 6pm @ NQ64

Click here for tickets!

Have a great Welcome Week and let us know if we can support you in any way :). click here for the full programme of events.

An Arts & Culture Guide to Welcome Week

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 12:08:46 +0100

If your idea of a good time includes galleries, gigs, crafts, or getting inspired by local talent, you’re in the right place. Edinburgh isn’t just a student city, it’s a cultural capital, and Welcome Week is the perfect time to dive in. Whether you're a creator, a performer, or just someone who loves the buzz of a good exhibition or open mic night, this guide is for you.

Edinburgh Napier Students’ Association (ENSA) has curated a range of artsy, expressive, and culture-filled events to help you meet fellow creatives, get involved in campus life, and explore the city's rich cultural scene, from historic landmarks to hidden gems.

So, bring your curiosity, your sketchbook, or your camera and let’s get inspired.

Saturday, 5th September

Coffee & Book Crawl, 2pm @ Uplands Roast

Click here for free tickets!

Monday, 7th September

Sighthill Garden Party, 1pm @ Sighthill Campus

Sighthill, get ready to celebrate the start of uni with your students' union, ENSA! Expect an exciting afternoon with lawn games, alpacas, ice cream, painting and a chill space to hang out and make new friends at your campus. This event is open to students at any campus, but Sighthill students are especially welcome!

Please note this event is not the same scale as Napier Fest, and we encourage all students to join us for that as well.

Click here for free tickets!

An Evening at The Edinburgh Bookshop, 6:30pm @ The Edinburgh Bookshop

Click here for free tickets!

Tuesday, 8th September

Welcome Fair, 10am-3pm @Corn Exchange

Don’t miss Scotland’s biggest Welcome Fair, the ultimate place to kickstart your active student life at Napier! With around 150 stalls to explore, you’ll find exclusive deals, freebies, and the inside scoop on all the sports clubs and societies waiting for you. Whether you’re into creative arts, reading, or just want to find something new, this is your chance to meet the people behind Napier’s societies, ask questions, and discover how to get involved.

Get ready to dive into the vibrant, active side of Napier and make the most of everything student life has to offer!

Click here for free tickets.

Napier Ceilidh, 8pm @ Ghillie Dhu

Don yer kilts and fancy dresses, it's time for a ceilidh! Come along for an elegant night of Scottish music and dance - don't worry, we'll teach you all the steps!

Click here for tickets.

Wednesday, 9th September

Napier Fest, 1pm @Craiglockhart Lawn

Start the academic year with a burst of colour, creativity, and connection! Join your Students' Association for an afternoon of carnival-inspired fun—featuring inflatables, nostalgic games, a petting zoo, candy floss, and more.

This playful event captures the spirit of student life and offers a great way to explore campus culture, meet new people, and enjoy a lively, atmosphere that celebrates expression and community.

Click here for free tickets!

Drag Bingo, 7pm @ Three Sisters Live Room

Click here for tickets!

Thursday, 10th September

NSFF Film Screening, 3pm @B55 Merchiston Campus

This is your chance to get comfortable, enjoy some popcorn, and maybe even get inspired to create your own masterpiece!

Click here for free tickets (hybrid event)

Friday, 11th September

Culture Crawl, 1pm @ National Gallery, The Mound

This free, open-to-all event is perfect for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Edinburgh’s cultural gems. Come alone or bring your pals and comfortable shoes!

Click here for free tickets.

Edinburgh Castle Visit, 3pm @Edinburgh Castle

Click here for tickets.

Sip & Paint, 6:30pm @ Teviot

Click here for tickets!

Saturday, 12th September

Pitlochry Highland Games, 8am @ Merchiston Campus

Experience the traditions of Scotland at the Pitlochry Highland Games!

Click here for tickets.

Craft Club (Bring Your Own Craft with Girls Craft Club), 10am @ Levels Cafe

Click here for tickets!

Sunday, 13th September

Charity Shop Crawl, 2pm @ Potterrow

Click here for free tickets.

photo of a petting zoo at Napier Fest.

Enjoy Welcome Week and let us know in the comments if there is an event you think is missing and you would like us to host!

Click here for the full programme.

Behind the Scenes of the Awards Ball

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:25:07 Z

The Societies and Sports Awards Ball has now sold out of dinner tickets! As one of the biggest nights of the year for Napier students, we know there is always chat about ticket prices and event details, so we wanted to take the opportunity to give an overview of some behind the scenes of planning this event!

The cost

While ENSA doesn't make a profit from this event, the costs do need to be covered by ticket income as we’re a charity. We understand that the ticket price is a big consideration, and we want to be open about where the cost comes from.

Event costs include:

A large-scale city-centre venue with professional staffing and security
In-house catering (we are required to use the caterers within the venue)
Venue facilities such as cloakroom access
Event management, safety measures, and insurance
Event production (staging, sound, lighting)
Live entertainment (bagpipes, band, ceilidh)
Professional photographer
Decorations (centrepieces, balloons, and photo opportunities)
Awards Ceremony (personalised trophies and certificates)
£2 booking fee included which we are required to pay to our event platform host and media partner Native

We work hard to keep ticket prices as low as possible while still delivering a safe, high-quality event that celebrates the achievements of societies, sports clubs, and volunteers.

To help with affordability, we also offer Late Entry tickets at a lower price for students who don’t wish to attend the meal or want a more accessible option.

Compared to other universities who are holding their awards night at the same venue, we think our value for price is great! As an example, Heriot Watt’s Sports Ball sold tickets for £80 (full ticket including 3 course dinner) and £35 (late entry ticket).

What has changed since last year?

We took your feedback from last year’s feedback ball survey on board and made some changes:

Food: We upgraded from a 2-course buffet meal to a seated meal at the lowest available rate
Welcome Drink: We will hand out tokens for the welcome drinks to ensure everyone only gets one drink
Ticket Price: Austen, your Co-President for Sport and Wellbeing, has actively secured multiple partnerships for the event, meaning we could reduce ticket prices by approximately £5 per person! We are grateful to our partners Macron, Frankenstein, Dropkick Murphys, Enterprise Mobility, Copper Blossom, and Civerinos, whose contributions have helped offset event costs.
Entertainment: Austen was also able to find a band that does both ceilidh and pop songs, saving some money in this budget too
Decorations: While no change is made in this area, continuing to use the same DIY centerpieces that we made 3 years ago, and only replacing broken ones, is helping with costs while reducing our environmental impact. A few years ago, balloons were used on each table as centrepieces.
Event Duration: We are slightly adjusting the event timings to make the drinks reception longer and finish the event a bit earlier, as last year most people left after the first band.

Step 1 centrepieces: painting bottles!

Step 2: organise existing paper flowers, fluff them, and order new ones. Repeat.

Step 3: organise all decorations, ready to take for the event

all set up!

What we can’t change...

The food menu. We can’t make the chefs cook custom meals or change caterers as the venue comes with catering. We make food decisions based on what we predict most people will like and choose a dietary option for any vegan or vegetarian attendees.
The drink prices. Unfortunately we can’t influence the venue’s drinks prices as they set these at standard levels themselves. We hope that the welcome drink you get at the start of the event helps with your overall drink costs during the event.

Planning & Logistics

So… what actually goes into planning a ball of this scale? A lot more than picking a venue and putting on a playlist!

Planning for the Societies and Sports Awards Ball starts almost a year in advance. After the previous ball finishes and feedback is collected, we have an in-depth team meeting to discuss changes to the event and whether we want to stick with the same venue. We then hold some dates until the new elected Sabbatical Officers start, to give them the final say! Sometimes this isn’t possible if other people are interested in the same date as us, in which case we book the venue but let the Sabbatical Officers input in other event decisions.

Behind the scenes, the Events team works closely with the venue, suppliers, and partners to make sure the event runs safely and smoothly.

This includes:

Confirming contracts with the venue, entertainment, and photographer
Writing event descriptions, accessibility notes, and event info packs
Managing budgets and invoices to ensure the event breaks even
Coordinating with the venue on food choices, event timings, room layouts and table plans
Creating said table plan (honestly my least favourite activity in the entire job :D) and event timeline
Writing risk assessments and coordinating accessibility needs
Organising decorations, including the set-up and derig on the day (this part is more fun)

But the events team is not the only one involved! The Sports & Societies team, Communications Team, and the President for Societies & Community and Co-President for Sport and Wellbeing all have important roles in the planning of this event. These include:

Reaching out to companies and managing partnerships for additional income
Coordinating VIP guests and staffing
Creating a promotional plan for advertising the event
Creating slideshows and photo montages
Discussing the shortlist and winners of the awards (this takes the volunteer committee multiple days!)
Ordering awards, trophies, certificates, and ensuring names and categories are correct

On the night itself, staff are on-site from early afternoon until the very end of the event. This includes overseeing room set-up, putting together centerpieces, liaising with the venue team, supporting presenters and performers, managing any issues that arise, and making sure everyone has the best possible experience.

Why we share this

We know it can sometimes feel like ticket prices or event decisions come out of nowhere. That’s why we wanted to be open about how this event comes together and where your money goes. The Awards Ball is about celebrating the incredible work done by societies, sports clubs, and volunteers across Edinburgh Napier and we want it to feel special, inclusive, and worth it.

If you’ve bought a ticket, thank you for supporting the event. If you’re attending via late entry, we’re excited to have you join us too. And if you have feedback afterwards, please keep sharing it – it helps shape how future events are delivered.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you on the night!