Local Festivals...

Don't worry they won't bite!  We are lucky to be nestled between two very active communities (Crieff & Comrie), you'll find something going on most weekends.  Here are a few of the larger scale annual events to try.

Crieff Beer Festival

If you like to try new beers and enjoy watching or participating in a game of rugby check out Crieff Beer Festival.  On offer during the June weekend are local craft beers, delicious food, a quiz night (with a trophy to win!), music from local bands and of course a few games of rugby.  Check their website for dates and times. www.crieffbeerfestival.com

Comrie Fortnight

An annual event in Comrie running the last week in July and first week in August.  Always a jam packed fortnight of events and trips, full of a good mix of the traditional - such as the pram derby, fancy dressed bike parade and the float parade, along with the new like the gig in the marque (we can't wait to hear who's playing this year, the Red Hot Chilli Pipers were great) and circus skills classes.  Guaranteed to be something for everyone, check out their events listings on their website.  www.facebook.com/comrie.fortnight

Crieff Highland Gathering

Running since 1870, Crieff Highland games are one of the oldest gatherings around.  Steeped in tradition, you'll find among other events the caber tossing, highland dancing and piping alongside more modern fairground rides, stalls and music tent.  Many a celebrity has been Chieftan of the Games including adventurer Mark Beaumont and actor Ewan McGregor.  Held in August it's a great day out for all the family, the massed band procession through the town is not to be missed.  Their website will keep you up to date with times. www.crieffhighlandgathering.com

Hairy Coo Mountain Bike Race

Part of the Drovers' Tryst Festival and hosted here at Comrie Croft, the day gives riders of all ages and abilities the chance to enjoy going as fast as they can!  There is a Wee Race (1hr) and a Big Race (2hrs) as well as the Bairns' Race for the under 12's, all guaranteed to enduce lots of grinning and calls of 'can I do that again!'  Book online at www.droverstryst.com

Flambeaux, Comrie

No one is really sure when or why this ancient Hogmanay tradition started, but it is kept very much alive by the locals.  Legend says it cleanses the village of evil spirits ready for the New Year.  As Big Ben chimes midnight, the Flambeaux torches (made of birch trees wrapped in tar soaked rags) are lit and paraded around the village with the Pipe Band and locals in fancy dress before being thrown into the river Earn.  There is a real party atmosphere and lots of dancing in the streets. www.comrie.org.uk