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Don't miss Fresh Ayr Folk Fest this August!


21 Jul 23
by Nathon Jones

Fresh Ayr Folk Fest 11th-13th August 2023

Fresh Ayr is Scotland's newest festival, taking place at Ayr's Rozelle Park between 11th-13th August 2023, with an amazing lineup of incredible live entertainment, family-friendly activities, fantastic food and drinks and top-of-the-range camping facilities.

Here are five reasons why you should join the party:

1. A world-class line-up of entertainment
More than 25 folk, world and roots musicians will take to the stage, including multi-award-winning Scottish supergroup Mànran, one of the world’s most prolific fiddle groups Blazin’ Fiddles, one of the most in-demand live bands on the Scottish folk scene Talisk, award-winning trad singer Siobhan Miller, the highly energetic five-piece Kinnaris Quintet and the hugely talented young quartet Gnoss, as well as a host of local talent. You’ll be sure to dance the night away!

2. Fun for the kids
We have lots of activities for all the wee ones allowing them to create and learn throughout the day.

Kids can enjoy arts and crafts, along with an area to learn circus skills like juggling, diablo and stilt walking –  no chance of the little ones getting bored!

3. Dancing for all
There will be lots of opportunities to get on your dancing shoes at Fresh Ayr! As well as pulling out your best moves while watching the amazing range of artists, you can also dance until your heart’s content at one of our ceilidhs. Our fantastic ceilidh band have dancers of all ages on their feet. Heel, toe and away we go!

4. Music workshops
Not only will you be able to watch some of the country’s finest acts, but you will also be able to learn from them! During the mornings and early afternoons, we’ll have an instrumental workshops – just bring along your own instrument and get ready to hone your skills.

5. Going doon the watter to Ayr
For years Ayr was a much-loved Scottish holiday destination and perfect place to spend the weekend. Get your tent or campervan pitched at our wonderful green campsite and get set to explore the festival and local area on what will (hopefully!) be a weekend of glorious summer weather. Anyone for ice cream?

Fresh Ayr Folk Fest Website

In Other News


MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2024 - Vote Now!

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1 Oct 24
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Outstanding sponsorship support from Five Kingdoms Brewery

Serving local produce ensures that the project supports local businesses and the local community. A huge favourite are the beers from Five Kingdoms Brewery which are brewed in Isle of Whithorn. We are hugely grateful to Alastair and his team for their very generous support for this year's festival.  

12 Jul 24
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Workshops at this year's festival

With so many outstanding musicians in Newton Stewart this weekend it would be foolish not to take full advantage, and we've done just that with a superb programme of traditional music workshops which are included as part of the Weekend Pass ticket, £10 per adult or £Free for under 25s.  

11 Jul 24
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Trad Music Trust

Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary over 11th-13th July 2025. It's an incredible achievement. The charity has created a viable, sustainable, event that continues to grow and develop, proudly celebrating the very best in traditional Scottish, Irish and World music. Make sure you book early for what is shaping up to be the biggest event yet!

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