WHEN you hear the words “summer”, “Scotland” and “festival” in the same sentence, chances are you’ll think of the Edinburgh Fringe.
While the month of August in Edinburgh is like no other, with streets and bars coming alive with music, art, drama and comedy performances, the whole of Scotland has many other festivities to offer in the summer months.
Here are five festivals taking place across Scotland this August and September, far away from the crazy commotion of the Royal Mile:
1. The Pitenweem Arts Festival, 4-12 August
Established in 1982 by its resident artists, The Pitenweem Arts festival has since grown to exhibit the work of around 100 artists from all over Britain. The festival is a celebration of the visual arts, with artists exhibiting work in public spaces, studios, galleries and even houses through out the village. Positioned right on the coast line, this quaint and quirky festival could be a refreshing alternative to the famous hustle and bustle of the Edinburgh Fringe.
2. The European Championships: Festival 2018, 1-12 August
Glasgow is making history this year by hosting the first ever European Championships and is celebrating by hosting an 11 day festival which will include flamboyant carnival parades, street art, dance, design and comedy. It’s not every day events such as these make their way to Glasgow, so if you’re close by, make sure to don your most ostentatious outfit and join in the magical carnival chaos.
3. The Skye Festival, 3 July-21 August
Established in 1991 as a way to use marquees put up for day classes run by the University of the Highlands and Islands, the Skye Festival has evolved over the past 26 years into a celebration of island culture and community. Taking place mainly at the southern end of the island, there is a strong focus throughout the festival on Scottish traditional music and performing arts, enlivened with Jazz, theatre and lots more. The journey up north would also provide some fantastic views and would be an excuse to see more of the beauty Scotland has to offer.
4. Dundee Flower and Food Festival, 31 August-2 September
Certainly one for the whole family, the Dundee Flower and Food Festival is now in its 30th year and offers the best in not only flowers and horticulture, but also cooking demonstrations, children’s activities and craft fairs. Marquees filled with candle makers and potters are there not only for artists to showcase their work, but also to teach others new skills and provide enjoyable experiences for all ages.
5. The Cowal Highland Gathering, 23-25 August
Any visitor to Scotland should make it a priority to witness the world’s finest Highland dancers and pipers perform and compete at the Cowal Highland Gathering – the biggest and most spectacular Highland games in the world. Native scots are also sure to enjoy themselves, as those not competing can dance the hours away in the multiple ceilidh tents, or sample food and drink at the plethora of food stalls. First held in 1894, the event is steeped in history and surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland. This could be in quite refreshing contrast to some of the city-based festivities taking place this summer.
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