Crowds flock to the Kirkintilloch Canal Festival

Thousands of people set a course for Kirkintilloch at the weekend as the annual canal festival reached a stunning crescendo.
The Kennedy Cupcakes , Graham the tall pirate and the CONFLUX Street Theatre CompanyThe Kennedy Cupcakes , Graham the tall pirate and the CONFLUX Street Theatre Company
The Kennedy Cupcakes , Graham the tall pirate and the CONFLUX Street Theatre Company

Families from all over East Dunbartonshire and beyond enjoyed a fantastic range of live music, fireworks, boat trips, classic cars, roller skating and more.

Get Active Saturday and Gala Sunday ensured another buoyant Kirkintilloch Canal Festival - attracting around 25,000 people and ensuring a healthy boost for the local economy.

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This year the canal-themed fun ran from Monday, August 24, to Sunday, August 30 - beginning with boat trips and cultural events.

The Kennedy Cupcakes , Graham the tall pirate and the CONFLUX Street Theatre CompanyThe Kennedy Cupcakes , Graham the tall pirate and the CONFLUX Street Theatre Company
The Kennedy Cupcakes , Graham the tall pirate and the CONFLUX Street Theatre Company

Highlights from the weekend included activities on and off the water, funfairs, 1940s Tea Party, storytelling, food and drink market, tours of the new Lairdsland Primary, street theatre, Coppers on the Canal police open day and more.

Around 3,500 people were in the Marina area for the fireworks finale on Saturday night.

Council Leader Rhondda Geekie said: “I am delighted to say that Kirkintilloch once again welcomed thousands of families, residents and visitors for this year’s festivities - culminating in Get Active Saturday and Gala Sunday.

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“It was a fantastic atmosphere at the Marina and other locations throughout the town centre - including Cowgate, the Auld Kirk Museum, William Patrick Library and Peel Park.

“Even the weather was good, with just a few showers over the weekend - ensuring no spirits were dampened.

“The Jersey Boys were a particular highlight on Saturday night - getting toes tapping in the Marina area at the live music stage - followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

“It was great to see so many local businesses and shops joining in the fun, and catering for the many visitors.

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“The canal festival is just one way the Council encourages people to visit East Dunbartonshire - boosting the local economy and enhancing the area’s profile, in conjunction with our partners.”

The annual celebration is organised by East Dunbartonshire Council with support from the Leisure and Culture Trust, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Kirkintilloch and District Car Club, Kirkintilloch Baptist Church, the Regent Centre, Kirkintilloch Campus New College Lanarkshire, Seagull Trust, Forth and Clyde Canal Society, and many more.

Scott Hill, Chair of East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, added: “Congratulations to everyone involved in helping to organise this year’s canal festival - ensuring entertainment, education and activities for all the family.

“I am pleased so many people could come along and see the wealth of facilities and opportunities in East Dunbartonshire.”