Dumfries and Galloway’s Wild Goose Festival is gearing up to take flight for its 5th annual edition, promising to be the biggest yet with a 10-day programme from October 18 to 27. The unique and diverse habitat of the region will be showcased through a plethora of events suitable for all ages, welcoming thousands of barnacle geese.
Organisers gathered at the WWT Caerlaverock nature reserve near Dumfries, which will host numerous barnacle geese over the winter, to launch the program. Activities will include interactive storytelling, nature walks, performances, and creative workshops across the region. Lead producer Sal Cuddihy expressed the focus on expanding the program to engage locals and visitors with the region’s natural beauty and migratory species.
The festival aims to celebrate the region’s wildlife through creativity, education, and engagement with various partners. It will highlight the social histories linked to the migration of species and offer opportunities for learning and participation. Event and ticket details are available online at wildgoosefestival.scot, where attendees can learn more about the festival.
Partners of the festival include The Stove Network, British Trust for Ornithology, Cycling Dumfries, and more. The festival will also be part of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival and supported by Traditional Arts and Culture Scotland (TRACS), Dumfries and Galloway Council, and other organizations. The intertwining of art, culture, and nature will provide a unique experience for attendees.
Faith Hillier from Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere emphasized the festival’s importance in sharing the UNESCO Biosphere ethos of learning and celebration. The festival will offer wildlife experiences, family events, creative workshops, and much more to engage visitors. Dumfries and Galloway’s Wild Goose Festival promises to be an enriching and memorable experience for all who attend.