Festivals back on song this summer
Scotland set to play host to dozens of events
THERE were times when it didn’t look like it would happen, but the news that Scotland will finally welcome back festivals over the summer is music to our ears.
From family-orientated events to legendary rock acts and global DJs, it is going to be an actionpacked summer for festivities as our favourite stars return to the Scottish stage.
With festivals taking place across the length and breadth of the country almost every weekend, a full calendar means there truly is an event for everyone, whatever their age or taste in music. Here’s our guide to the best of them.
Prices are for the cheapest adult tickets .
TRNSMT
The vowel-dropping daddy of Scottish music festivals returns for the fourth year with a line-up bursting at the seams with international and homegrown talent.
Where? Glasgow Green Park, Glasgow
When? July 8-10, 2022
Who’s in the line-up? Paolo Nutini, Lewis Capaldi, The Strokes, Foals, Wolf Alice, Nile Rodgers and Chic. Tickets: from £80.15, www.trnsmt.com
SOLAS FESTIVAL
Described as a “wee Woodstock”, this three-day festival blends music with activism and invites musicians, poets and thinkers to its relaxed woodland stage. Revellers are encouraged to get involved, too, with dance, yoga and children’s activities offered across the whole weekend.
Where? Errol Park, Perth and Kinross
When? June 17-19, 2022
Who’s on the line-up? Kris Drever, Brass, Aye? and Tinderbox Orchestra Tickets: from £44. www.solasfestival.co.uk
DOUNE THE RABBIT HOLE
That festival feeling is certain to be back with a blast at this eclectic four-dayer. With five stages and sets spanning the very best of rock, indie-pop and daft to miss this starry line-up.
When? July 14-17, 2022
Where? Cardross Estate, Stirlingshire
Who’s playing? Patti Smith and Band, Amy MacDonald, Belle & Sebastian, Camera Obscura and Teenage Fanclub
Tickets: from £80, www.dounetherabbithole.co.uk
MUGSTOCK
Offering music and merriment across four days, Mugstock aims to be “the best wee festival possible”. This is the place to go to catch a glimpse of Scotland’s most exciting up-and-coming acts.
Where? Strathallan Castle, Auchterarder
When? August 5-8, 2022
Who’s on the line-up? Stanley Odd, Griogair Labhruidh and many more to be announced.
Tickets: from £35, www. mugstock.org
BUTEFEST
A non-stop weekend of fun, this oh-so-scenic festival is stuffed with Scottish spirit, cracking bands and delicious grub that is sure to keep the whole family entertained.
When? July 29-31, 2022
Where? Ettrick Bay, Isle of Bute
Who’s playing? Elephant Sessions, Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Scouting for Girls, and Christie Oliver
Tickets: from £96 for an adult weekend ticket, www. butefest.co.uk
PARTY AT THE PARK/ PARTY AT THE PALACE
Fancy a blast from the past? Sister festivals Party in the Park and Party at the Palace both have a nostalgic flavour, offering up some of the best acts from the nineties and noughties across two separate weekends. Hit rewind and get ready to play all night long.
When? Party in the Park takes place June 18-19 and Party at the Palace arrives August 13-14.
Where? South Inch Park, Perth for Party in the Park, while the grounds of Linlithgow Palace in West Lothian will play host to Party at the Palace.
Who’s playing? Steps, McFly, Gabrielle, Toploader and Sophie Ellis-Bextor Tickets: from £49, www.partyatthepark.scot and www.partyatthepalace.co.uk