Kelso Civic Week

The Kelso Laddie now leads an annual cavalcade of around 200 horses to Yetholm to qualify for his Blue Bonnet for having crossed the English Border. The Historical Pageant of the Whipman’s Ride re-enacts the sporting festivities of a very early trade union. Not every event is based on equestrian skills, a Grand Ball and a Children’s Ball are mainstays of the week, and the War Memorial and joint church service, as well as the Fancy Dress Parade, are still key elements of the week. The highlight of the week is the Colour Bussing of the town flag in the beautifully decorated Town Square, in front of a large crowd, when the Kelso Laddie is entrusted with the Burgh Standard.