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£130,320 economic impact in 2018


18 Nov 18
by Billie Jones

A packed Festival Marquee in 2018

With support from Dumfries & Galloway Council's Major Events Strategic Fund it has been estimated that Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival had a total economic impact of £130,320 in 2018; a fantastic achievement for the event and a huge boost to the region's economy.

Whilst it often would have been cheaper to use suppliers from outwith the region, the organisation has always been committed to using local businesses/suppliers to ensure that any grant funding or sponsorship we receive, as well as the income the organisation generates, delivers maximum benefit in Wigtownshire.  We are very proud of our record in this respect.

The organisation spent £16,073 in Wigtownshire - £20,741 in total in Dumfries & Galloway - to deliver the festival this year; direct economic benefit from the event for a wide range of local businesses including printers, engravers, photographers, joiner, accommodation providers, restaurants and bars, marquee hire, festival staff and performing artists from the region.

Add to this the estimated spend by the 1,600+ visitors who attended the event this year - approximately £109,580 - and it becomes very clear just how good a return on investment the event offers.

Just imagine what could be achieved if we had full and part-time staff working year-round on the project!

Review of 2018

In Other News


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
Nathon Jones

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
Nathon Jones

Highland dancing competition unable to go ahead this year

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the postponement of this year's Highland dancing competition at Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival. Continued funding cuts have meant some very difficult decisions have had to be made, however we do hope to bring this back in 2025.  

26 Jun 24
Nathon Jones

Trad Music Trust

The 10th annual Newton Stewart & Minnigaff Traditional Music & Dance Festival takes place over the 12th-14th July 2024. 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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