What’s on this July

July in the South of Scotland is packed with a rich variety of festivals, celebrations, outdoor performances, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you love traditional music, historic reenactments, outdoor adventures, or family fun, there’s something for everyone this summer.

Traditional Festivals & Common Ridings

Summer in the South of Scotland is full of colour, tradition, and community spirit — it’s Common Riding season!

Kick things off on 5th July in Annan, where the Riding of the Marches brings riders together to mark the town’s historic boundaries. Expect the ringing of hooves, pipe bands, and a big, bold parade through the streets.

The celebrations continue on 6th July with the Duns Summer Festival, where the Reiver and Reiver’s Lass lead the way in a week of ride outs, family fun, and local pride.

In Jedburgh, the Callants Festival adds to the summer magic, as the town honours its traditions with historic ceremonies, ride outs, and community events full of warmth and local pride.

On 18th July, Kirkcudbright brings its own style to the season, as the horses wind through this picturesque town in a stunning show of equestrian skill and community.

From 12th to 19th July, Kelso Civic Week delivers something for everyone — from the iconic ride to Yetholm led by the Kelso Laddie, to elegant balls, colourful children’s events, and the much-loved Colour Bussing in the town square.

Langholm takes centre stage on 25th July with one of the oldest Common Ridings in the region. Think horse racing, games, dancing, and a real festival atmosphere that fills the town.

Then round off the month in Gatehouse of Fleet from 27th July to 3rd August, where torchlight parades, fireworks, sports, music, and dancing bring the whole community together for a week of celebration.

Traditional Music & Dance

If your heart beats to the rhythm of traditional music, July in the South of Scotland delivers a feast of sounds and steps to delight all ages.

Kirkcudbright Scottish Night, lighting up Harbour Square from 10th July to 21st August, showcases the Kirkcudbright and District Pipe Band alongside the Stewartry Area Wind Band, Galloway Pipers, and stunning Scottish Country and Highland dancers. The festival is rounded off by the legendary Kirkcudbright Tug o’ War Team, making it a toe-tapping, heartwarming celebration of culture.

The Summer Trad Festival in Castle Douglas takes things up a notch with a dazzling lineup of world-class performers. The McGoldrick Family’s haunting melodies and BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2025, Ellie Beaton, light up the stage on the 11th. The following day, Ireland’s finest, The Kane Sisters and LUSSA, bring their award-winning traditional music to captivate the audience with soulful harmonies and vibrant rhythms. The festival closes with Rachel Walker & Aaron Jones and Jack Badcock on the 13th, creating an unforgettable sing-along celebration that blends Gaelic and folk traditions, old and new — a joyous musical journey you won’t want to miss.

Family Fun & Community Events

Flock to the South of Scotland in July for a packed calendar of laughter, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

On 6th July, Kirkcudbright Kite Picnic invites everyone to spread their wings and join the fun. With kite flying, face painting, and lively children’s entertainment in Gartshore Park it’s a fun, colourful day out for all.

Later in the month, Kirkcudbright Country Fair bursts with excitement. From free children’s rides and amazing falconry displays to sheep and dog competitions, magicians, crafts, and mouthwatering food stalls, topped off by headline music acts that keep the energy buzzing.

In Kelso, the annual Border Union Show on the 25th and 26th of July is the highlight in the agricultural calendar. The traditional farming show boasts hundreds of competitions for horses, livestock and more, while the Food Fair, Craft & Gift Marquees and children’s fun fair offer something for all ages and tastes.

The Eden Wool Gathering on 26th and 27th July offers a cosy, woolly celebration of textile arts, workshops, and stalls in Whithorn — all in support of vital local cancer support services.

Meanwhile, Portpatrick Lifeboat Week, from 27th July to 2nd August, rallies the community with fun and fundraising events honoring the courageous lifeboat crew.

And for a summer-long family adventure, the Hairy Haggis Hunt at Gretna Green, from 7th July to 5th September, invites visitors to spot cheeky tartan creatures hidden throughout the site — with prizes for those sharp-eyed enough to find them all.

Theatre & Performances

July transforms the South of Scotland into a vibrant stage where stories come alive with passion, humor, and intrigue.

Have you been to Scotland’s smallest theatre? The Swallow Theatre near Whithorn offers a varied programme this summer. Mystery fans rejoice as Watson: The Final Problem returns on 5th and 6th July, peeling back the layers of Sherlock Holmes’ world through the eyes of his loyal companion. On 10th and 11th July, Smokescreen Productions’ Jack’s Ashes, delivers a powerful and heartwarming exploration of mental health struggles through the unexpected lens of cricket.

Families and theatre lovers alike can head to the magical outdoor setting of Crawick Multiverse’s Sun Amphitheatre on 15th July for The Wind in the Willows, a beautifully crafted adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s beloved classic.

And for lovers of poetry and romance, walk in the footsteps of Robert Burns at Burns Remembered – For Auld Lang Syne on 27th July. Held in the church where the bard himself worshipped, listen to his poetry and song, and raise a dram in his memory.

Just a few days later, Isn’t It Byronic? on 30th July offers a captivating tribute to Lord Byron, the ultimate Romantic rebel. Come along for an evening of literary magic and inspiration.

Outdoor & Historical Experiences

July invites adventurers and history buffs to step outside and dive deep into the fascinating past and breathtaking landscapes of the South of Scotland.

On 19th July, journey back in time at Gilnockie Tower with Journey Into Border Reiver History, where authentic weapons, costumes, and vivid reenactments bring the fierce and thrilling world of 16th-century Border Reivers to life.

For those craving medieval spectacle, Caerlaverock Castle near Dumfries hosts exciting tournaments on 26th and 27th July as part of Spectacular Jousting. Think galloping horses, clashing lances, and the colorful bustle of camp life that will transport you to a bygone era.

Keen golfers shouldn’t miss the Farmfoods Scottish Challenge Pro-Am at Schloss Roxburghe on 30th July. Be in with a chance to tee off with pros like Eddie Pepperell, Renato Paratore and Calum Fyfe.

If relaxation and rejuvenation are more your style, the Qi Gong retreat at Smailholm from 16th to 20th July blends gentle movement, wild swimming, nature walks, and music to soothe body and soul.

And don’t miss the Introduction to Wild Swimming and Sauna sessions at The Yair. On 19th and 20th July, there will be guided dips in the pristine River Tweed combined with relaxing sauna rituals. It’s a perfect taste of Scotland’s celebrated outdoor wellness culture.

Exhibitions & Tours

Art and history lovers can immerse themselves in captivating exhibitions and tours that bring the South of Scotland’s creative and cultural heritage to vivid life.

From 5th July to 5th October, the Edwin G Lucas – A Purely Individual Painter exhibition at Hawick Museum & Gallery showcases surreal, imaginative works that defy convention and ignite the imagination.

Over in Innerleithen, the Discover the Heartbeat of Innerleithen exhibition, invites visitors to explore the rich history and traditions that make the town unique. Running from 9th to 23rd July, it also includes the much-loved Games Week.

For a regal touch, book a tour of magnificent Thirlestane Castle, and savor an afternoon of elegance with locally sourced afternoon tea. It’s the perfect blend of history, hospitality, and indulgence.

With such an incredible array of events, from horseback community celebrations steeped in tradition to world-class music, theatre, and family fun, the South of Scotland is a vibrant place to be this July. Be sure to come experience the best the region has to offer!