Bunting out for southside shindigs

The Southside Shindig kicked off on Saturday, using the new Queen’s Park Arena to celebrate the coming Commonwealth Games.

Funded by the Big Lottery’s Celebrate programme, the free event honoured the cultures of the Commonwealth — in particular, those with big populations in the southside.

Revellers were treated to food from around the globe and a full programme of dance and music, including the southside’s own Howlin’ Radio and young musicians from Shawlands Academy.

Marie Davidson, event manager at the Queen’s Park Arena group, told The Extra that the first ever Shindig was “a great success”.

Also on Saturday was Bungo in the Back Lanes — a chance for Strathbungo residents to reclaim their cobbled streets and show all that the neighbourhood has to offer.

There was music galore, stalls and food courtesy of some big Glasgow hitters, including Babu Bombay Kitchen serving up Indian street dishes, while the green space behind Sammy Dow’s was transformed into Merry-Go-Round’s children’s garden, complete with Commonwealth-themed games.

The fun continues over in Battlefield this weekend, as the annual Street Party returns to Battlefield Community Garden on Saturday (June 28).

This year’s events include a Bake-Off judged by Bakery47, Dr Bike on hand for on the spot repairs and performances from local groups (as well as an open mic session).

There’s a bring and share lunch, so that neighbours can picnic together, and a tombola, bouncy castle and plenty of stalls — as well as garden games with Urban Roots.

For more info, search for Battlefield Street Party on Facebook.