The Saltire Festival
The Saltire Festival
The Saltire Festival is back for 2019 and we are delighted to be celebrating our 10th anniversary! There will be exciting events marking St. Andrew's Day taking place across East Lothian from Sunday 24th November - Sunday 1st December bringing together the very best of Scotland in the Home of the Flag.
Our programme of events is shaping up well and we expect more events to be added, so please watch this space!
St. Andrew Service
Athelstaneford Parish Church
Sunday 24th November
The annual St. Andrew Service commemorates the association between Scotland's patron saint and Athelstaneford. Tradition has it, that close by the village, a battle was fought in 832AD in which the dramatic appearance overhead of a white cross against a blue sky inspired the Scots/Picts to victory. This was to lead to the St. Andrew's Cross or Saltire being adopted as the national flag.
The Service, to be taken by the Rev Mike Watson, will start at 11am and last about an hour. Anyone is welcome to attend. At the close, pipers will lead the Minister and the congregation to the Memorial where a new Saltire will be blessed and hoisted on the tall flagpole. Haddington Pipe Band will attend, and they will then lead a procession along Main Street towards the Village Hall. Flags will then be presented to horse riders who will take them to the site of the historic battle site. Everyone attending is invited for refreshments and hot drinks in Athelstaneford Village Hall.
Saltire Raceday at Musselburgh Racecourse
Monday 25th November
Celebrate the run up to St. Andrew's Day with the excitement of jump racing. Racegoers packages are available so treat yourself to a great day out and take up position close to one of the hurdles or fences as the horses speed past. Why not come dressed to impress and wear something tartan!
Purchase your advance ticket before 11.59pm on 24th November to SAVE £5 per Adult. (On the day price £22). Children 17 & under go FREE when accompanied by an adult.
Doors open: 11.30am, First Race: 12.45pm, Last Race: 3.30pm
Scotland on Film - Robert The Bruce
The Brunton, Musselburgh
Wednesday 27th November, 7.30pm
Angus Macfadyen reprises the role he played so memorably in Braveheart as Scottish Leader Robert the Bruce in this retelling of the legendary story. This atmospheric film had its World Premiere at this years' Edinburgh International Film Festival.
Tickets: £8 (£7)
Lanterne Rouge: The Launch Open Day
Lanterne Rouge Cafe, Gifford
Thursday 28th November, 1pm-4pm & 7pm-9pm
Celebrate the launch of the Anthology 'Lanterne Rouge: The Last. The Anthology is a compilation of poems on the theme of 'The Last'. Lanterne Rouge is the name given to the cyclist in last place in several cycle races including the Tour de France and this beautiful book, printed locally, will do justice to the theme, the poets and this amazing county.
The day will consist of a free drop in event with live music and poetry from Yester Primary School pupils followed by an evening party when you will have the opportunity to hear readings from the published poets themselves.
The evening party is a ticketed event and includes wine & nibbles - space is limited so book now to secure your place.
The Anthology edited by Lanterne Rouge poet in residence, Stella Hervey Birrell, supported by successful Kickstarter Fund, all proceeds to St. Columba's Hospice.
Prestonpans Battlefield by Night Tour
Meet at Meadowmill Car Park
Thursday 28th November, 7.30pm
Join battlefield historian, Arran Johnston, for an atmospheric exploration of Prestonpans Battlefield, uncovering the forgotten story of the battle.
This walking tour visits many of the location's main landmarks, including Tranent Churchyard, the Waggonway Fields & Bankton House Doocot. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing, torches recommended.
Tour is free, last approx 2 hrs 30 and returns to the starting point.
Spaces are limited so booking is recommended.
To book - email here.
Foxtrail Winter Running Series - 5k & 10 Trail Runs
Foxlake Adventures, Dunbar
Friday 29th November, race starts at 6pm
Get ready to run through the illuminated woodland with the foxes in the woods surrounding Foxlake in the dead of night. It's time to don the head torch and join the ranks of over 200 runners under the stars as you meander through trails surrounding Foxtrail HQ.
The event is Saltire themed, that means all things tartan and blue and white are welcomed!
St. Andrew's Day Haddington Farmers' Market
Court Street, Haddington
Saturday 30th November, 9am-1pm
Widely recognised as the friendly farmers' market, come and enjoy the atmosphere on St. Andrew's Day itself.
Stallholders will be selling a wide variety of local produce presented in an inspiring and innovative way and you will be able to pick up some St. Andrew's Day recipes so you can cook your very own dishes at home.
A great opportunity to talk directly to producers about the provenance of the food and the growing and rearing methods.
Ample parking available and Haddington Pipe Band will be making an appearance.
Foxtrail Winter Running Series - Nocturnal Ultra
Foxlake Adventures, Dunbar
Saturday 30th November, race starts at 4pm
The Nocturnal Ultra Marathon is back for 2019! For those new to the marathon, the format is simple; 5km loop, 6 hours, furthest distance wins - all under darkness. You can choose to tackle the course on your own or share the challenge in a relay team.
Expect fireworks, music, illuminated woodland and a few surprises along the route. Whether you are aiming for 70km or 17km, the Nocturnal will have something for everyone!
The event is Saltire themed, that means all things tartan and blue and white are welcomed!
Barbara Dickson Full Band Show
The Brunton, Musselburgh
Saturday 30th November, 7.30pm
Having started her career in the folk clubs in Scotland, Barbara Dickson recorded numerous hits songs. In addition, she won many awards for her acting where she took on leading roles.
The concert will open with support from Edwina Hayes, a Yorkshire based singer-songwriter described by Nanci Griffith as "The sweetest voice in England".
Tickets: £32
Man at Arms
Dirleton Castle
Sunday 1st December, 1.30pm
Come along to Dirleton Castle to experience a special 'Man at Arms' talk, which tell tales of siege warfare and castle life, with a selection of medieval weapons on show.
No booking required. Included in admission price. For more information, please contact Dirleton Castle on 01620 850330.
The Rezillos & Big Country
The Brunton, Musselburgh
Sunday 1st December, 8pm
Featuring two great bands playing their much loved hits!
The Rezillos smashed into the rock scene and found themselves inadvertently caught up in the Punk or New Wave movement. The band reformed in 2002 after playing Edinburgh's Hogmanay Festival. They played exceptional sell-out shows in the USA and won over a new generation of fans.
Big Country perform classic hits and live favourites. Formed in 1981 by the late Stuart Adamson and Bruce Watson, Big Country are steeped in a stunning catalogue of proud and stirring hits songs.
Tickets: £32