A festival for all the family

Scotland’s midsummer festival of music and ideas is back at The Bield, Tibbermore, near Perth, between June 23-25.

Solas will feature folk, rock and world music, debates and discussions from politicians, activists and thinkers on the issues of the day, as well as literary readings, dance and theatre, craft workshops and lots of children’s activities – all in an idyllic countryside setting.

With live music ranging from some of Scotland’s hottest rock and pop acts (Lau, WHITE, Pronto Mama and the Mercury Prize-nominated C Duncan) through new and established names in trad and folk (Mary Ann Kennedy, Finlay Wells and Ewan Macintyre) to the pan-African sounds of the Ha Orchestra, there will certainly be something to get your toes tapping.

One of the things that makes Solas unique is the programme of talks, discussions, readings and performances sitting alongside the music. This year, look out for debates addressing Brexit and the refugee crisis and readings and contributions from Booker Prize-winning author James Kelman, Green MSP Andy Wightman, playwright David Greig, Professor Alison Phipps and novelist Helen Sedgwick, among others. There will also be a range of dance, theatre, circus and even a cinema programme.

And, of course, you can bring the whole family. Unlike most music festivals, Solas is designed to be child-friendly, with a huge range of activities, including craft sessions, dance workshops and a petting zoo. It means parents can relax and take in some music or a talk, grab a drink or some food, knowing that everyone is having fun in a safe environment.

It’s no wonder it was named one of the best family-friendly festivals in Scotland by The List.

Adult weekend tickets are £105 (£120 on the gate), children under 11 go free and there’s a camping place with every weekend pass. Day tickets and concessions are also available.

For more information visit www. solasfestival.co.uk

Solas hassomething for everyone.