Wigtown Book Festival: celebrating 25 years of Scotland's Book Town
Organisers say over 10,000 people are expected to attend this year
The Wigtown Book Festival is almost upon us once again, with a range of workshops, talks, and activities set to run across 10 days, from the 22nd of September to the 1st of October.
The literary festival was founded back in 1999, when Wigtown was awarded the title of Scotland’s National Book Town.
Over 10,000 people are expected to descend on Wigtown throughout the next 10 days, with the event widely recognised as one of the countries leading literacy festivals.
Since then, locals say the festival has been a key part of culturing regeneration, and putting Wigtown on the map.
Organisers say the festival has generated over £50 million for the regional economy so far.
It’s hoped the event will continue to culture new readers, support writers, and create a love of storytelling for years to come.
There'll be plenty to keep visitors entertained
Some familiar names can be expected to appear this year, including Judy Murray who will be speaking to audiences about her new book, as will reigning Strictly Champ Hamza Yassin.
Award winning children’s author Michael Morpurgo will also be in attendance.
With over 200 different events, organisers say there is definitely something for all the family.
It’s understood the festival wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of 120 volunteers, a notable number for a town with a population under 1,000.
Cathy Agnew, Chair of festival trustees, said: “We are incredibly proud of the way so many people give their time and energy – rolling up their sleeves to deliver one of the best events of its kind in the country – and we hope this year will be the best yet.”
Working alongside a small team of professional staff, it’s all hands-on deck for the volunteers, who do everything from stewarding events, distributing brochures and selling tickets, as well as accommodating visiting authors.
An important date in the local calander
Anne Barclay, Operational Director of Wigtown Book Festival, said: “This festival is so much of a community effort – it’s astonishing that we can muster an army of 120 volunteers from a town of less than 1,000 people.
“Wigtown Book Festival has become an important part of Scotland’s rich cultural life and without the volunteers it simply couldn’t happen.
“The commitment shown by them and our small group of staff is incredible. The way people have taken it to their hearts and devoted themselves to making it a success is astonishing.
“There are even some who have been part of every festival that’s taken place, right back to 1999.”
For the full programme of events, head to the Wigtown Book Festival Website.