If you’re studying at the University of Dundee, chances are the city has already become part of your everyday life — from walks along the Tay to late library sessions and coffee stops on Perth Road. Dundee Day, celebrated every year on 26 January, is the perfect moment to pause and appreciate the place you now call home.
Why 26 January matters
On 26 January 1889, Dundee made history when Queen Victoria officially granted it city status — making Dundee the first city in Scotland. Even today, Dundee remains the only Scottish city with a precise date marking when it became a city. More than 130 years on, that’s still worth celebrating.
A city shaped by ideas, industry and innovation
Dundee’s story is one of reinvention, creativity and ambition — themes that probably feel very familiar to students.
- Juteopolis (1860s–1870s)
At its peak, Dundee dominated the global jute industry, employing around 50,000 people across more than 60 mills. The industry shaped the city’s economy, architecture and social history — something you can still explore today at Verdant Works. - Built for exploration (1901)
The RRS Discovery, built right here in Dundee, launched in 1901 and carried Captain Scott and his team to Antarctica. Today, it sits proudly at Discovery Point, a reminder of Dundee’s role in global scientific exploration. - A city of computing and games
In the 1980s, Dundee played a key role in home computing, manufacturing the Sinclair ZX Spectrum. In 1994, the city cemented its reputation by launching the world’s first degree in computer games technology — helping Dundee become a global hub for games design, including the birthplace of Grand Theft Auto. - Design at its heart
Dundee was the UK’s first UNESCO City of Design, and the V&A Dundee — Scotland’s only dedicated design museum — reflects the city’s creative confidence and international outlook.
Dundonians who changed the world
Dundee Day is also about the people who shaped the city and beyond:
- James Chalmers – inventor of the adhesive postage stamp
- William Playfair – pioneer of the line graph, bar chart and pie chart
- Williamina Fleming – astronomer who discovered white dwarf stars and the Horsehead Nebula, and transformed how stars were catalogued
- Generations of scientists, medics, designers and game developers educated right here in Dundee
How students can celebrate Dundee Day
You don’t need bagpipes and a kilt (though you won’t be stopped).
- Take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy one of the city’s best views
- Visit a museum or gallery — many are free and perfect for a study break
- Learn a bit of local history (your library is a great place to start 👀)
- Try a classic Dundee “peh” (pie) from a local bakery
- Combine Dundee Day with Burns Night, which falls the day before
A city still looking forward
Dundee has been named a City of the Future, recognised for innovation in life sciences, digital technology and creative industries. For students, that means studying in a city that continues to evolve — just like you are.
So whether you’re here for a few years or planning to stay longer, Dundee Day is a celebration of the place supporting your studies, friendships and ambitions.
Happy Dundee Day 💙
And if you’re studying in the library today — you’re already right in the heart of it.
