What’s On This September in the South of Scotland

September in the South of Scotland is a time of vibrant transition, where the changing seasons bring a flurry of activities and events that capture the region’s unique charm. It’s a magical time to explore the region. From cycling challenges in the Borders to seafood feasts on the coast and celebrations of the written word, this month is bursting with festivals, exhibitions and family fun. This month offers visitors the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage, natural beauty, and lively spirit of the region. Here’s our guide to what’s happening across the Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway this September.

Festivals & Fairs

September in the South of Scotland is a month of celebration. Join in! From food and heritage to gardens and skies filled with kites, there’s an event for every interest and age.

Kick-start the month with the Walking & Wheeling Festival in Galashiels from 4th September. This four-day celebration of walking and cycling invites you to explore the Borders on foot or by bike, with routes designed for all abilities. Stretching across a variety of locations, there’s even opportunities to try wild swimming!

Over in Dumfries & Galloway, the Stranraer Oyster Festival returns as Scotland’s biggest seafood party from 12th to 14th of September. Expect chef demonstrations, oyster shucking championships, live music, children’s activities and of course plenty of Loch Ryan oysters.

Step back in time at the Newstead Sundials Festival on 7th September, celebrating the heritage of Scotland’s oldest continually inhabited village. There will be guided tours, stonemason showcase and market stalls. Or immerse yourself in Border Reiver history with the Teviotdale Steel Bonnets for Weapons Week at Gilnockie Tower on 20th September.

For garden lovers, the Kirkcudbright Autumn Plant Fair on 7th September is a chance to browse plants from local nurseries and meet expert growers. And don’t miss the colourful Kirkcudbright Kite Festival on 20th–21st September, where giant kites fill the skies and families can join in workshops and displays.

Cycling & Outdoor Adventures

The South of Scotland is already famed for its trails – both for cyclists and walkers. Still, September is a dream month for all outdoor enthusiasts! This month showcases the region at its vibrant best, with the perfect blend of adventure and scenery.

Head to the Tweed Valley for some of the country’s best road and MTB events. On 6th September, the brand new Wee Touro offers a relaxed, family-friendly ride, while the following day sees the legendary Tour O The Borders closed-road sportive attracting riders from far and wide. Enjoy some of the UK’s best road cycling, including the infamous ‘Talla Wall’ climb and stunning local scenery. Whether you’re joining the race or cheering on the riders, the event village ensures a great time for all. For an extra challenge, the Tweed Valley Sportive later in the month features routes of 50 or 100 miles. And if mountain biking is more your style, the Glentress 7 on 27th September promises seven hours of endurance riding at one of Scotland’s premier MTB destinations.

Walkers aren’t left out either – the Moffat Walking Weekend from 26th–28th September showcases some of south west Scotland’s most stunning trails, from gentle family ambles to rewarding long-distance routes. Explore the Dark Tales of Old Moffat, or take on the Hart Fell Challenge, one of the town’s iconic landmarks.

Another adventure suitable for all abilities, the Loch Ken Wild Swim welcomes everyone to enjoy the calm, clean waters of the loch from the 7th-9th of the month. Choose from the Kids Splash and Wobbly Waterpark or challenge yourself to the 10km end to end swim. No matter your preference, you can be sure to find a friendly festival atmosphere!

Literature, Art & Culture

Whatever draws you in – books, art, fashion or history – there’s no shortage of inspiration this September. Connect with fellow creatives at exhibitions and workshops or let yourself be absorbed by the written word.

Literary fans from across the globe are flocking to Scotland’s National Book Town for the ten-day Wigtown Book Festival, starting 26th September. Beyond enjoying the international author events, make sure to take time to browse the many local bookshops. Those looking for an evening of poetry can also head along to Selkirk for Wild and Wonderful: The Natural World in Poetry on 24th September.

Art takes centre stage this month. Waterways, a new exhibition opening 5th September in Coldstream, reflects on the beauty and fragility of rivers. In Selkirk, ‘P o d’ explores the world of seeds through visual and sonic works. From 17th-30th September, the Galashiels Studio Club Exhibition brings together works from one of the Borders’ oldest art collectives. Those keen to get hands and creative can join a special Bernat Klein workshop on 13 September at the Borders Textile Towerhouse in Hawick. The workshop will celebrate the visionary textile designer’s passion for colour.

For a deeper dive into local history, the Romans, Reivers and the Rough Wooing Archaeology Tour offers a 3-day guided tour that reveals the stories hidden in the Borders landscape. Sign up and learn how to read the local landscape like an archaeologist.

Music & Performance

September’s lineup is full of energy and variety. Whether you’re looking for live music, an evening of laughter or a day of browsing a record fair.

Live music lovers are spoiled for choice. The Budapest Café Orchestra bring their lively blend of folk and classical sounds to an intimate setting at the Swallow Theatre on 9th September. Meanwhile, folk-rock pioneers Lindisfarne are heading to Galashiels Volunteer Hall on the 19th. Fans of The Beatles won’t want to miss 27th September in Kelso. That evening, Across The Universe, a celebration of the band’s studio years, will be performed with live band and orchestra.

For something different, Look Who It Isnae! offers a night of laughter and storytelling: Actor and comedian Gavin Mitchell reflects on more than 30 years in the business. And if you’re looking to add to your collection of music and memorabilia, check out the MacArts Record and Vintage Clothing Fair on 28th September.

Plan Your September

From world-class cycling to art exhibitions and live music, September in the South of Scotland is packed with reasons to visit. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it here. Plan a trip and make the most of this vibrant month!