Fortnight of fun at Summerfest
The sounds of the summer will be heard in Callander this weekend.
The fourth annual Callander and Trossachs Summerfest kicks off on Saturday (15 July). This communityled celebration has something on every day for the full fortnight – music, film, dance, kids’ activities, craft workshops, vintage markets, art exhibitions, cycle rides, family fun days, sport, Highland games. You’re sure to find something to interest you, and many of the events and activities are free.
The event will open with Callander Brass, the fest’s own award-winning bass band, playing in Ancaster Square at noon, followed by the Loch Lomond Ukulele Orchestra at 2pm and 3pm, who are performing to raise funds for CHAS. The square will also be filled with art installations, the legendary yarn-bombing and fun craft activities. In the evening gypsy jazz band Viper Swing return for a gig (with licensed bar) at the Callander Hostel, with a programme of Django Reinhardt, tunes from the Great American Songbook, swing era hits and modern songs with a twist. On Sunday, art in the square is joined by a vintage market where visitors will find a unique selection of handmade or pre-loved clothing, gifts and homewares. You can also try to ‘throw a pot’ with local potter, James Mounter, and there is the screening of a matinee film at 2pm, Sing (cert U), a fun musical animation to entertain young and old.
The week that follows has a crochet workshop, a talk on discovering the Blair Drummond hoard, a gin distillery visit, walks, ceilidh trail, country dancing, photography workshop and the Tom Hanks film Sully.
The full programme is online at www.incallander/summerfest where you can also book your tickets. The box office will be open in St Kessog’s, the former church in Ancaster Square, from 11am to 5pm daily from July 15 to 29. For more information, email callandersummerfest@gmail.com or call 07856 338212.
Callander & Trossachs Summerfest 2017 is organised by Callander Community Development Trust, Creative in Callander and Callander Youth Project Trust, with funding from private donations, Callander Community Hydro Fund, Stirling Council, Friends of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs and from advertisers and sponsors in the business community.
Anne Docherty, secretary of Callander Community Development Trust and one of the Summerfest organisers, said: “A huge number of local organisations, groups and individuals of all ages contribute by running events and workshops, performing, distributing brochures, manning the box office, creating art installations and helping with market stalls. It’s truly a community effort. But also great fun, so thank you all for making it happen.
“We hope you’ll find something new to try or enjoy.”