10 Great Festivals in Scotland this Year!

2012: A Few Wee Festivals In Scotland This Year

There are a host of festivals taking place in Scotland throughout July and August.  If you have chosen to holiday in this beautiful part of the world this year we are sure there will be a festival you’ll enjoy.

1. Lomond Folk Festival

The Lomond Folk Festival runs from the 27th to the 29th July.   This is a weekend for the whole family to enjoy.   The festival features traditional Scottish folk music, a craft fair, children’s entertainment and lots more.

2. Craignish Arts Festival

From the 21st July to the 5th of August the Craignish in the West Highlands hosts a festival which is primarily one of visual arts, but incorporates lots more besides.  During the day you can enjoy markets, sports and family events and art workshops.  The evenings will be filled with the sound of live music.  Be sure not to miss the Pirate Parade

3. Inside Out Street Theatre & Outdoor Performing Arts Festival

Beautiful St Andrews will host the amazing Inside Out Street Theatre & Outdoor Performing Arts Festival from 27th to 29th July.   Come and enjoy demonstrations of circus skills, drama, dance, aerial acrobatics, and stunt bicycles.  You won’t believe your eyes!

4. Thistly Cross Cider Festival

Bring your tent because camping is the best idea.  You can spend the weekend sampling the best craft beer and real ales from Scotland and around the world, as well as the full range of Scottish fruit and traditional ciders.   There will be fun and games for the family and live music.  A festival bus will run from Dunbar station.  (Remember to pack the hangover pills, just in case)

5. Fringe by the Sea

If you are in, around or near North Berwick between the 6th and 12th August make sure to spend time at the Fringe By The Sea.  The beautiful coastline provides a perfect setting for this festival of theatre, music, book readings and children’s events.

6. Speed of Light

In August the magnificent peak known as Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh will stage for this amazing public art and sporting event known as the Speed of Light.  The mountain will host choreographed walking and running events.  A fantastic light show that can be seen for miles as hundreds of walkers and runners wearing light suits ascend to the summit.  You can take part by holding a torch in the foothills whilst watching the display above.

7. Sail and Oar Festival on Cumbrae

This event takes place over two days, the 18th and 19th August.  It is a celebration of water sports, traditional and modern.  Cumbrae is a beautiful island in the Firth of Clyde, with a long maritime history.  You will be able to take part in water sports and browse around the craft fare.  There will also be live music and family activities.

8. Inverness Book Festival

This literary festival is takes place overlooking the scenic River Ness and the islands.  It is a small festival which covers authors over a large range of genres.  There will also be writing workshops and whisky tasting.  Enjoy sampling wonderful foods at the local restaurant or take part in a bookfest pub quiz.

9. Mull of Kintyre Music Festival

Celebrate Scottish Music at the Mull of Kintyre Music Festival.  There is a jam packed program of musical workshops and cultural heritage tours between the 16th and 19th August.   Live music performances will range from traditional folk to rock and pop.

10. Edinburgh International Festival

The most famous Scottish festival of all has to be the Edinburgh Tattoo.  This year it runs from the 3rd to the 27th August.   There is something for the whole family to enjoy.    The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo forms part of the festival and takes place in front of Edinburgh Castle.  The pipers, singers and dancers are a must see, so don’t miss out on this one.

Let us know if there are any festivals going on in your part of Scotland.