What’s on this July

As the height of summer reaches the South of Scotland, July 2026 brings an explosion of activity across the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway. With schools breaking up and the weather at its warmest, it is the perfect time to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, and community festivals.

From medieval jousting tournaments to unique sporting challenges, here is your essential guide to the best things to do this month.

It’s Common Ridings Season

July remains the beating heart of the Common Ridings season, a series of equestrian traditions that connect local communities to their historic roots.

The festivities continue with the Jedburgh Callants Festival from 1^st to 10th July, the Annan Riding of the Marches on the 4th, and Duns Summer Festival from the 5th to the 11th.

In Kelso, the week-long Civic Week kicks off on the 11^th and will see the Kelso Laddie lead a grand cavalcade to Yetholm. In the west, the Kirkcudbright Riding of the Marches on the 17th offers a stunning spectacle of over 100 horses riding through the harbour town’s streets.

The month concludes with the iconic, historic Langholm Common Riding on the 31st, a deeply ingrained tradition dating back to 1759 and a hugely important event in the local calendar.

Medieval History & Reenactments

The South of Scotland truly excels at bringing history to life, and July is the peak season for those who love their history with a side of action.

Have the Common Ridings sparked your interest in local history? On the 18th of July, head to Gilnockie Tower for the Teviotdale Steel Bonnets. Here, you can embark on a captivating journey through time to discover the unique attire and stories of the Border Reivers.

For the ultimate medieval showdown, visit Caerlaverock Castle near Dumfries on the 25th and 26th of July for their Spectacular Jousting tournament. This annual medieval extravaganza features daring knights battling it out in the arena, offering a fantastic opportunity to cheer for your hero and experience the adrenaline of a tournament just as it would have been centuries ago.

Arts, Culture & Outdoor Theatre

The region’s cultural scene is buzzing this July, offering everything from prestigious exhibitions to laugh-out-loud outdoor performances.

History buffs can enjoy the final, exclusive Neidpath Castle Guided Tour on the 23rd of the month. For a blend of fashion and landscape, don’t miss the Exuberance Collection of felt art in Galashiels until the 25th, or the opening of Living on the Edge by textile artist Karen Charlton on the 25th in Hawick.

If you enjoy live performance, July is packed with highlights: Catch The Three Inch Fools performing King Arthur and the Holy Fail at Crawick Multiverse on 9th July, or take the family to see The Jungle Book at Floors Castle on the 11th. For another truly unique experience, the Swallow Theatre, Scotland’s smallest theatre in Whithorn, hosts the award-winning inspirational show Tomatoes Tried To Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life on the 31st.

Family Fun & Community Festivals

July is a month of community gatherings and some rather “bonkers” Scottish traditions.

For the entire month, Kirkcudbright transforms into a hub for events and festivities: Families should head to the annual Kite Picnic on the 5th, or the Country Fair on the 18^th and 19th. But the perhaps the most talked-about event of the summer is the Official UK “Wife” Carrying Championships in the town on the 19^th. It’s a fun, unique sporting spectacle that draws crowds from across the country. And at the end of the month, the Kirkcudbright Art & Crafts Trail starts. Over 100 venues across the town throw open their doors for creative showcases, exhibitions and more.

Another highlight is the Japan-Scotland Community Cultural Festival in Dumfries on 18^th and 19th July, celebrating cross-cultural ties. The 2026 event at The Crichton will see a packed programme with traditional arts & crafts, music, as well as manga and cosplay contests for children and young people.

For those near Peebles, Kailzie Gardens hosts their open day for charity on the 19th, perfect for a peaceful Sunday stroll. Make sure to stop by the garden café for lunches and sweet treats.

Wellness, Nature & Immersive Escapes

For those looking to slow down and reconnect, the South of Scotland provides plenty of space to breathe.

Families might enjoy the Summer Pony Days at Eat Sleep Ride in Lamberton, which run throughout the summer, while the Reflect & Restore Day Retreat on 26th July offers a unique opportunity for mindfulness through equine interactions.

In Dumfries, you can continue to enjoy the atmospheric Rabbie, Tam and The Ghosts of The Globe Inn tours, or indulge in a refined Cheese & Wine Afternoon at the iconic Globe Inn. If you’re feeling adventurous, book an interactive Theatre Royal Ghost Hunt in Dumfries (18th–19th July) for an investigation-led journey into the supernatural.

Looking to truly disconnect? You can join the Foundations of Natural Intelligence Retreat in Roberton from the 25th of July, a week-long off-grid retreat, helping attendees reconnect with nature through meditation, conversation, and contemplation.

Live Music & Summer Vibes

The soundtrack to your July is guaranteed to be diverse, ranging from traditional pipe bands to high-octane rock.

The Vault Arts Centre in Newton Stewart is the primary hub for music this month, hosting a powerhouse rock show by Victory or Die on the 4th, followed by the celebrated Summer Trad Festival from the 10^th to the 12^th. Expect a range of concerts, workshops, Highland dancing and some of the best trad tune sessions in the country! Rounding out the month is a performance by the mesmerising folk duo Ordinary Elephant on the 26th.

Those looking for a traditional showcase, don’t miss the Kirkcudbright Scottish Night starting on the 23^rd. Each Thursday until the end of August, the harbour square comes alive with the skirl of the pipes and the best of traditional local music.

Finally, if you find yourself in Dumfries towards the end of the month, immerse yourself in the Summer Burns Celebration on the 25^th. The Globe Inn, the poet’s favourite howff, invites guests to step back in time for a night of cultural heritage and culinary excellence.