To celebrate the success of Annan History Town Festival, organisers are inviting members of the community, and visitors from the wider region and beyond, to join in a special free family Fun Day this Saturday afternoon from 130pm onwards.
Newington Playing Field, next to the Leisure Centre, will set the scene for historical re-enactments, featuring the Time Bandits living history group, and for those with a more competitive streak, The Lowland Games kick off, and aim to promote a sense of physical and mental wellbeing, with a hint of friendly rivalry besides! A court jester will regale audiences with historical antics and anecdotes, while costumed characters from centuries past reveal their roles in Annan’s colourful history, and a very special performance from Annan Pipe Band will launch the day’s events in style – their first public outing in over two years.
Annan the History Town Chairman Richard Brodie tells us more:
“Our aim was to put a smile on local people’s faces and this Fun Day will certainly do that. History is great fun, especially when the castles are bouncy. There will be a lot for children to do and I am sure the adults will enjoy getting stuck into the Lowland Games.”
Festival Co-Director Kathleen Cronie explains further:
“The Festival Fun Day promises to be a fantastic feel-good event and we aim to keep the festival atmosphere rolling with a range of exciting attractions. One of many highlights is a visit from The Time Bandits, who will be recreating a Border Reiver encampment with an extensive array of artefacts and weapons on display. Once upon a time, Annan’s precarious position on the Border, made it a hot-bed of Reiving. To give an example, following the daring rescue of Reiver, William Armstrong (better known as ‘Kinmont Willie’) from Carlisle Castle, the town of Annan was burnt to the ground! This professional group will give guests a taste of what life was like during those turbulent times.”
Festival Co-Director Graeme MacGregor enthused:
“Fun Day is essentially for families and Newington is an ideal location. There will ALSO be free prize giveaways during the afternoon – listen out for the announcements.”
Since its launch in July, the Summer Festival has gone from strength to strength with a host of exhibitions, traditional music events, storytellers and tours, Spurred on by a passion to create a brighter future for Annan, the Festival has welcomed a wealth of collaborators and linked up with numerous local businesses and community projects, bringing a strong local flavour to every stage of its development.
Engaging with the community is a top priority and the fun day offers a great opportunity to do just that. Kathleen explains:
“In addition to a magical day of uplifting entertainment and educational activities, the Fun Day offers the additional benefit of community engagement – a chance to invite feedback on the festival and promote a sense of involvement in our plans for the year ahead. We also see this as a lovely way to thank the town of Annan and beyond for the amazing support shown over the past few weeks, and hope many more people will come out to experience the remaining Festival events.”
For a lighter-hearted look at life, the ‘Best Dressed Dog’ should be a hoot! Naturally, there’s an historical theme, with prizes up for grabs for the most imaginative doggy costume. Festival favourite Daffy Dill will also be making a splash, delighting young fans with her glorious array of rainbow bubbles. And with seven bouncy castles and various stalls to pore over, it’s set to be a super Saturday!
Summing up, Richard said:
“Being outdoors, this is a safe place for families to enjoy themselves. The weather is set fair – so be there or be square!”
