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Tag: Dumfries Spring Fair 2025

 ‘We’d Stand on the Sands’: Screening & Discussion on the History & Future of the Dumfries Fairs

March 22 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Discover the rich history of Dumfries’ fairs and the Travelling Showpeople who bring them to life. For generations, Showfamilies have set up on the Whitesands. This special screening event shares their stories through a series of short films, including a brand-new work by Ruari Barber Fleming capturing a ‘Fairground Walkabout.’

The programme also features archival footage from Showman Albert Biddall’s cinematograph, rare glimpses of historical fairs in Dumfries & Galloway, and personal recordings from Showfamilies—offering a moving portrait of past fairs during times of flood. Each film will be introduced, providing unique insights into the culture, heritage, and resilience of Scotland’s Showpeople.

Following the screening, join us for a facilitated discussion on the future of the fairs on the Whitesands. With flood prevention plans on the horizon, what will these changes mean for a tradition that has stood for generations?

Hosted by: Showman Alex James Colquhoun, artist and dialectogram creator Mitch Miller, filmmaker Ruari Barber Fleming, and artist t s Beall.

Supported By: Presented by Fair Scotland, funded by The People’s Project and Pinch Pots. In collaboration with RBC Film Theatre and The Stove Network.

BOOKING REQUIRED

BOOK HERE
Free

RBC Film Theatre

Mill Rd
Dumfries, Dumfries and Galloway DG2 7BE United Kingdom
01387 264808
View Venue Website

Reel To Real Presents: Showland

March 27 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Step inside the world of Scotland’s fairs and the Showpeople who make them happen. First released in 2014, this powerful documentary by artist and Showman Mitch Miller offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at life in the fairs, which are run by the Showmen’s Guild.

Through stunning archive footage spanning every decade since 1908—including never-before-seen home movies—the film follows Showfamilies from their summer to winter runs, capturing the highs, the hardships, and the resilience of a community whose way of life is increasingly under threat.

Following the screening, join filmmaker and artist Mitch Miller for a post-show discussion on the urgent challenges facing Scotland’s Showpeople today.

This event is supported by Fair Scotland.

Free

The Stove Cafe

100 High Street
Dumfries, DG1 2BJ United Kingdom
01387 252435
View Venue Website

Fairground Walkabout 2025

March 29 @ 11:00 am – 12:45 pm

Roll up, roll up! Back by popular demand and now in its 5th year—join us for a unique walking tour through the March Fair!

Step into the rich history of Dumfries’ fairs and meet the Showpeople who travel from across Scotland to bring them to life. Many Showfamilies have worked along the banks of the Nith for generations—this is your chance to hear their stories while tracing the route of Dumfries’ fairgrounds, past and present.

Starting along the riverfront, we’ll walk through the heart of the March Fair, stopping at key sites that have played a role in the town’s vibrant fairground tradition. Along the way, you’ll have the rare opportunity to meet Showpeople who have been part of Dumfries’ fairs for generations, gaining insight into their lives and work.

START LOCATION: Please gather at the east side of the Suspension Bridge (Dockhead / A781)

Hosted by:

  • Artist T. S. Beall
  • Showperson and Dumfries Fair Organiser Raynor Codona
  • Jr Vice President of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain & Vice President of the European Showmen’s Union Alex James Colquhoun

Start on the Whitesands, end on the Waltzer—this is one experience you won’t want to miss!

Accessibility & Route Details:

  • Dress for the weather.
  • The fair opens at 12:30, with flashing lights and fairground sounds.

This event is brought to you by Fair Scotland.

Free

Suspension Bridge

Dockhead / A781
Dumfries, Dumfries and Galloway United Kingdom
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