Day of the Region returns this September with another exciting and varied programme of free events and activities organised by communities across Dumfries & Galloway.
This year’s activities include a fun run, a village tug-of-war, a huge outdoor film screening, an LGBT Pride celebration, community BBQs, circus skills workshops, crafting demonstrations and loads of live music.
There will also be a big increase in activities for young people this year, with D&G LEADER providing additional funding and support for dedicated youth zones, activities and games at Day of the Region events to celebrate ‘2018 Year of Young People’.
In addition, a number of youth theatre groups will take part in Day of the Region to create links across the region and showcase their talents.
Communities participating in this year’s Day of the Region programme will be Palnackie, Annan, Gatehouse of Fleet, Dumfries & Galloway LGBT Plus, Lincluden & Lochside (NW Dumfries) and Newton Stewart – PLUS youth theatre groups in Moffat, Stranraer, New Galloway and Thornhill.
Day of the Region activities are organised by working groups of local volunteers in each participating community and everyone is encouraged to get involved – dance groups, choirs, musicians, fitness classes, sports clubs, individuals, organisations and businesses – to showcase what’s on offer in the community, celebrate local talent, and strengthen links across the area.
These events are free to attend and participate in, so everyone can get involved in their local celebrations or take an opportunity to visit a neighbouring community.
Day of the Region is a strategic project by Dumfries and Galloway LEADER Local Action Group (LAG) and has been delivered in the region every year since 2011. Day of the Region provides an important opportunity to celebrate and animate rural communities in Dumfries and Galloway and gives vital support to local ‘grassroots’ and community-led initiatives.
WEEKEND ONE Palnackie – Friday 31st August & Saturday 1st September
WEEKEND TWO Annan – Friday 7th & Saturday 8th September Gatehouse of Fleet – Friday 7th & Saturday 8th September
WEEKEND THREE D&G LGBT Plus (Dumfries) – Friday 14th & Saturday 15th September
WEEKEND FOUR Lincluden & Lochside (North West Dumfries) –Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd September
WEEKEND FIVE Newton Stewart – Friday 28th & Saturday 29th September PLUS … Youth theatre groups in Moffat, Stranraer, New Galloway & Thornhill – dates TBA
Get involved in Day of the Region 2018 – be part of it!
1. Save the dates! There are events every weekend in September. Note the date of any celebrations you’re interested in and check back for details of local programmes in the coming weeks.
2. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and/or Instagram to keep up-to-date! Working groups in communities are finalising their event programmes now and we will post updates on local events across social media and at our official website – www.dayoftheregion.co.uk.
3. Add your name to our mailing list! You can choose to receive updates about Day of the Region via SMS text message, email or post – just send your details to [email protected].
4. Get in touch with local organisers! Everyone can get involved in their community’s celebrations – contact local working groups and offer to help – you can do as little or as much as you like.
5. Participate! Support Day of the Region by going along to your nearest celebration or attend the free events in a neighbouring community.