SCOTLAND’S first festival focused on myths, legends and dark history is set to launch in this autumn.
The Festival of Folklore, to be hosted by award-winning tour creators Mostly Ghostly in Upper Nithsdale, Dumfries and Galloway, is inspired by the local scenery and heritage.
The event, which will run from September 27 until 29, will showcase storytelling, art, tours and trails.
It will be staged in venues such as the Crawick Multiverse, A’the Airts and Wanlockhead Museum of Lead Mining, as well as the Kirkconnel hills and the streets of Sanquhar.
Festival founder Kathleen Cronie said: “We’re delighted to be collaborating with the Upper Nithsdale Tourism Partnership on the inaugural Festival of Folklore.
“The area boasts a relatively undiscovered ‘mythical landscape’ steeped in history, heritage, myth and magic. Coupled with vibrant and welcoming communities, we felt this area would be the perfect location for our new festival.”
“We aim to start small, with a view to growing the festival in years to come: our vision is that the Festival of Folklore will become a destination event in the region’s colourful and eclectic festival calendar, building a dedicated following and attracting new people to discover the delights of Dumfries and Galloway.
“This is an excellent opportunity for innovation, nurturing local passion and knowledge, and bringing communities together, and in doing so, helping to boost the local economy.”
Jon Evans, vice chair of the Upper Nithsdale Tourism Partnership, said the event “is just the start of something that has great potential to grow and put Upper Nithsdale on the map”.
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