A 10-day celebration of all things literary has begun in Wigtown.
The festival features over 250 events and is expected to attract thousands of visitors.
The 26th edition of the Wigtown Book Festival has commenced in south-west Scotland. This year’s festival promises a myriad of engaging events. Highlights include actor Alan Cumming, renowned performance poet Pam Ayres, and celebrated novelist Irvine Welsh.
With over 250 events scheduled, the festival offers a diverse range of attractions. The festival runs until 6 October and is expected to draw up to 8,000 visitors.
Artistic director Adrian Turpin shared that he hoped the festival would be a ‘celebration of curiosity and a forum for discussion and debate.’
For the first time in over a decade, the festival is operating without the sponsorship of Baillie Gifford. This decision followed pressure from climate change activists earlier in the year.
Despite the absence of this long-term sponsor, the festival’s organisers remain optimistic about the event’s success and visitor turnout.
Among the distinguished speakers is Dr Fraser Hunter, principal curator of prehistoric and Roman archaeology at National Museums Scotland. He aims to challenge some of the common misconceptions about the Roman presence in Scotland.
Dr Hunter remarked, ‘We often think of their world stopping at Hadrian’s Wall – it didn’t, Scotland was in or on the edge of the Roman world.‘ He added that the Romans invaded Scotland three times, including ventures into Galloway.
‘We also often have a bit of an Asterix view of the Romans, poor Italians shivering in the cold and facing fierce, indomitable tribesmen,’ he continued.
The festival will also feature guests such as the Hebridean Baker Coinneach MacLeod and Scotland’s national chef Gary MacLean. Former BBC Moscow correspondent Martin Sixsmith is also slated to appear.
Additionally, attendees can look forward to appearances from MasterChef finalist Sarah Rankin and actor James Cosmo.
These diverse guests enhance the festival’s appeal, offering something for everyone.
The Wigtown Book Festival is more than just a series of events; it is a cultural landmark in Scotland. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for fostering literary discussions and community engagement.
This year, the festival continues its tradition of celebrating literature in all its forms, attracting both national and international visitors.
The Wigtown Book Festival remains a cornerstone of Scotland’s cultural and literary calendar. As it adapts to new challenges and changes, the festival’s enduring appeal ensures its place in the hearts of literary enthusiasts.
The Wigtown Book Festival continues to draw literary enthusiasts from far and wide.
Its diverse offerings and esteemed guests ensure it remains a highlight in Scotland’s cultural calendar.
