Produced by The Stove Network and held in Dumfries and surrounding areas, Wild Goose Festival unites key partners from the region in an exploration of nature, creativity, and place. The festival is inspired by the migratory route of barnacle geese between Svalbard and the Solway estuary and focuses on our region’s connection to these fascinating birds and the incredible journey they make to reach us.

Every autumn Dumfries & Galloway welcomes tens of thousands of wild geese, including barnacle, greylag geese, brent geese and Greenland white-fronted geese, after their long migration, some travelling over 2,700km to reach us!

This yearly mass gathering makes our region one of the best places in the UK to see such a variety of geese.

Our brand-new programme offers a fun-filled series of inspiring and educational, family-friendly activities and events across Dumfries & Galloway from 17th to 26th October 2025.

This year’s festival follows the exciting news that Wild Goose Festival has been awarded the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere Green Charter Designation—a proud milestone that celebrates the festival’s deep commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and the people who make the region special.

With over 70 events and activities taking place over ten days, with additional fringe events throughout October, the 2025 festival promises something for everyone. From hands-on workshops and family-friendly activities to inspiring talks and outdoor adventures, it’s a chance to explore the unique stories and natural beauty of Dumfries & Galloway and reflect on our relationship with the world around us.