Countdown on for canal fun in Kirkintilloch

Bursting with activities and entertainment for the whole family, it is estimated that the festival will bring in around 28,500 visitors to the town, with numbers peaking at the weekend.

‘Get Active Saturday’ literally has something for everyone from canoeing to soft play, urban foraging to yoga, there is so much on offer to choose from. Visitors can take part in fun runs, cycling, an army assault course, community fitness classes, archery and a fishing competition.

Keeping with the nautical theme, ‘Finding Nemo’ will be shown on the big screen at Kirkintilloch Baptist Church at 11am and in William Patrick Library there will be a children’s creative arts installation project. Throughout the town there will be painting demonstrations, jive routines, zumba and stage performances from the Kennedy Cupcakes.

The fun packed day will end on a high note with ‘Big Vern ‘n’ the Shootah’s’ and Re-Take That taking to the stage at the Marina, followed by a phenomenal fireworks display to music by local composer Greg Friel.

The fun will continue on Sunday, with activities throughout Kirkintilloch. There will be Cowgate Fayre, where visitors can see classic cars, peruse market stalls, enjoy the funfair and carousel and listen to live music. Throughout the town the Kirkintilloch Male Voice Choir will be ‘popping up’ to entertain revellers. Activities in Peel Park include Roman, Jacobite and medieval re-enactments, local and family history tents and music in the bandstand.

Over the course of the weekend, Paulo’s will be providing the catering at the food court at the Marina where there will be pirates, walking on water, archery, climbing and spin art. Visitors can pop into open days at Martin’s Vetinary Care and

Marina Dental Care. Nearby Kirkintilloch Police Office is hosting ‘Coppers on Canals’ and Cumbernauld College Campus will also be welcoming visitors to treat themselves to a manicure or to play video games.

On the canal there will be a host of activities taking place including canal cruises, canoeing, pond dipping and water rollerz.

Council Leader, Rhondda Geekie is looking forward to the event, she said, “Each year the Kirkintilloch Canal Festival just gets better and better and this year is no exception. The programme is absolutely packed with activities on both dry land and on water – some of which you may need to book and many you can simply come along and try out.”

She continued: “The Canal Festival is a great opportunity for local people and visitors alike to experience all that Kirkintilloch has to offer - outdoor activities, shops, the canal, history, culture, cafes and restaurants. It’s a celebration of this town and I would encourage everyone to come along and join in the festivities.”

For more details on what’s going on during the festival and to find out times, prices and booking information, visit www.kirkintilloch canalfestival.org

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