Local Events

The year in Grantown-on-Spey is marked by a wide variety of annual fun and unique events.

This is an overview of them - - please see What's On section for more details.

Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival - last weekend in April

As it is the Gateway to the Malt Whisky Trail, Grantown hosts a series of events and promotions to coincide with the annual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. See www.spiritofspeyside.com.

Strathspey in May - 1st to 10th May

This Festival has been running for 7 years and while previously the focus was on traditional music, it has now expanded to be a celebration of the culture of the town and area --something for everyone to enjoy so watch this space See www.strathspeyinmay.com for details.

Figgat Fair - last Saturday in July

Grantown Show - 2nd Thursday in August

www.grantownshow.co.uk

The Annual Strathspey Farmers Club Grantown Show is held annually on 2nd Thursday in August at Heathfield Park, Grantown-On-Spey.

As well as all the livestock competitions, in the afternoon there is the Grand Parade of Livestock Winners, pipe band and Highland dancing. A Pageant of Decorated Vehicles (see below), Children's Races and Pets parade also add to the fun. The Cairngorms Farmers Market also attends selling fresh local produce. There is a different theme every year for the Pageant with first prize of £150 and second prize £125 and £100 for every other entry.

Anyone interested in entering (trailers are available on request) should contact Julie Grant on 01343 551113. There is also the usual varied trade stands, kiddies side shows, Punch and Judy performance and much much more -- indeed something for everyone! In the evening there is a popular Marquee Dance.

Thunder in the Glen - Weekend of 22nd August

Highland Games - 24th August

Traditional Highland Games held at Heathfield Park, Grantown-on-Spey.

Special Event: 56lb Weight for Distance Championship, Usual Events: Highland Dancing, Solo Piping, Open Tug O' War, Running, Cycling, Field and Heavy Events, Mass Pipe Bands. Contact Mrs E Watt on 01479 873237.

Motor Mania and Try-triathalon - first Sunday in September

Motor Mania is now well established as a major date in the calendar of attractions across Strathspey. Established in 1995, this popular annual festival brings together vintage and veteran cars and vehicles of all types and from all over the UK beyond into Grantown's beautiful Georgian Square. On display in the town square will be all kinds of amusements for adults and children alike from a full-scale replica Spitfire to a Farmers Market offering local produce. Music, stalls, food, gifts and dancing can all be found in a wonderful buzzing atmosphere. Admission for spectators is free

The Grantown try Tri also takes place on that day, ending in The Square, and this only adds to the special atmosphere.

Special transport from Aviemore and Boat of Garten to Grantown's nearest station, Broomhill, is laid on by Strathspey Railway Company and these train services are shown the train timetables. Once at Broomhill, you can travel onwards in style on MacBrayne's Classic Bus - a real trip down memory lane! All in all, a fun day out for all the family with something for old and young alike. Further information can be obtained from Ewan Sutton -- call 01479 872309.

Festive Lights Switch-On

Reindeer Torchlight Procession - 23rd December

Hogmanay -- 31st December

One of the highlights of the year, eagerly looked forward to by locals and visitors alike, is the Grantown on Spey Hogmanay Party in the Square ! Bring in the New Year in great style with one of the largest Hogmanay crowds in the Highlands. From 11pm until 1am enjoy music, dancing, the haggis and mulled wine, watch the Millennium Beacon and the midnight flares. Each year now they make an attempt at Strip the Willow World Record. As many dancers as possible are needed to join in the post midnight fun. If you know how to dance Strip the Willow, we would like to hear from you in advance - we need you to help those who are new to the dance. Phone David Elder on 01479 872260 and leave your name and number - do it now please, we need you! Any questions, call Hogmanay Committee member Norman Grant on 01479 851215

Please leave us your comments or sign our guestbook.