The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Bumper event laid on by Perth and Kinross Council hailed a towering success
Perth enjoyed its busiest weekend of the year as tens of thousands of people converged on the city centre for a feast of entertainment.
Climaxing with the traditional switchon of the Christmas lights and a fireworks display, an estimated 40,000 revellers packed the streets to make the most of all that was on offer.
The festival atmosphere attracted all ages with everything from a chocolate festival to ice sculptures to keep them occupied.
As in past years the musical offerings were the main draw with Slade, Fleur East, Professor Green and tribute band Abba Spectacular performing on stages set up around the city.
Provost Liz Grant, who led a parade through the streets, had no doubts that the largest ever event laid on by the council had been an unqualified success.
“People kept stopping me to say how much they had enjoyed it,” she said.
“There were certainly more people than last year.
“There was something for everybody, a real spread of musical talent.”
She said restaurants, bars and businesses all enjoyed spin-off benefits from the event.
“There were even busloads of people from Glasgow,” she added.
“I can remember when I first became provost we really needed to do something to make this a vibrant city.
“In difficult times you have to spend money so when you come out the other end you are ready to go.
“The more people we bring into Perth the better it is for business.
“There was a huge footfall, the place was jumping.”
The “big weekend” continued yesterday as the community showed off its talents in a “cultural celebration” to reinforce the city’s serious intentions of becoming City of Culture 2021.
Local performers, creative workshops, storytellers and artists all vied for the attention of the crowds while a light show lit up the riverside Norie-Miller walk.
There were also musical offerings throughout the afternoon with singer Dougie MacLean leading a grand finale on Tay Street.
“This weekend is about bringing as many people as possible into the city to inspire them with a diverse and awe-inspiring showcase of talent,” the provost added.