The Saltire Festival is back and there’s a great programme of events to choose from – all held here in East Lothian – the home of the Saltire flag. Tickets are on sale now.
Based around St Andrew’s Day on 30th November, the Saltire offers a range of events from Scottish music to film screenings to a battlefield tour – and more. There’s even a chance to get creative and show off your photography skills in a social media competition.
This year’s festival kicks off with a special screening of a classic film set in Scotland – Local Hero – at The Brunton, Musselburgh on Wednesday 24th November. The Brunton also hosts Scottish folk singer/songwriter Kris Drever on Friday 26th and Keith Jack and the McDonald Brothers performing songs from popular Scottish artists on Saturday 27th November. There’s also a free exhibition in the Brunton foyer throughout the month, telling the story of Dunbar-born conservationist John Muir’s love of the work of Robert Burns.
And what would Scottish history be without a few epic battles? Your chance to tour the site of the Battle of Prestonpans is on Thursday 25th November hosted by battlefield historian Dr Arran Johnston.
Court Street, Haddington, is the venue for a special Saltire-themed farmers’ market on Saturday 27th November. Why not pop along and pick up some ingredients for a St Andrew’s Day feast?
To celebrate the Saltire Festival, a competition is running on Instagram and Twitter. All you have to do is take a photo of yourself at your favourite East Lothian landmark wearing something Scottish, post it on social media and tag us using #SaltireFest and the top three submissions will receive a £50 East Lothian Gift Card. Get your entries in by 30th November and we will announce the winners on 6th December.
Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council’s spokesperson for Economic Development and Tourism, said: “The Saltire Festival has been a favourite fixture on East Lothian’s calendar for many years now and this year’s programme has another great mix of events to appeal to all tastes – with a strong Scottish and East Lothian theme. Tickets are selling fast so I’d advise being quick to avoid disappointment.
“I can’t wait to see the creative submissions coming in for our first Saltire social media competition too. It’s a great way to have a bit of fun and support local businesses by getting out and spending the East Lothian Gift Card prizes. Keep an eye on the website and Facebook page for any events that may be added to the programme in the next few weeks.”
The festival runs from 24th to 30th November and full details are at www.saltirefestival.com and on Facebook at @visiteastlothian