East Lothian is delighted to stage The Saltire 2013, with a programme of events that celebrate its fame as the birthplace of the Scottish flag. A number of activities and events will take place throughout the county for visitors and local people alike. The Saltire 2013 builds upon the success of the event over the past four years and has become a five day festival of music, culture and heritage.
This year’s programme will include a celebration of the flag at its home in Athelstaneford followed by a group of riders carrying the flag to St Michael’s Parish Church in Inveresk in time for The Saltire Concert. There will be a foodies’ paradise at Haddington Farmers’ Market to include a St Andrew’s Day Menu and all the fun of the races at Musselburgh Racecourse. Come dressed to impress with a Scottish theme and be in with a chance to win a fantastic prize.
Two concerts are planned at the Brunton with Fat Sam’s Band on Friday evening and Donny Munro on Saturday 30 November, as well as Feast ‘n Folk events to be held in East Lothian’s best restaurants and bars – a mix of traditional Scottish menus followed by Scottish music. The finale of the festival will be the The Saltire Concert to be held at St Michael’s Parish Church in Inveresk on Sunday 1 December 2013.
East Lothian allows visitors to experience the best of Edinburgh’s coast & countryside. Boasting stunning beaches and rolling hills not to mention top visitor attractions, welcoming towns and villages, excellent accommodation and good food and drink – you’re guaranteed a warm welcome!
Councillor John McMillan, Cabinet Spokesperson for Economic Development and Tourism at East Lothian Council, said:- “The Saltire is fast becoming a fixture in people’s minds and diaries as previous years have been really successful and people are keen to take part again. The programme is great – with something for all ages and tastes and is a real celebration of East Lothian’s strong history of arts, music and culture. And, of course, the ability to enjoy a great night out! I have no doubt that the Saltire 2013 will be the best yet. It’s also a great opportunity to let visitors know about the other fantastic festivals we have here throughout the year – including Fringe by the Sea, the Lennoxlove Book Festival and the Lammermuir Festival.”
Cabinet Secretary for Culture Fiona Hyslop said:-“Our winter festivals bring people together, from home and abroad, to celebrate the very best of Scotland. It’s great to see The Saltire building on its success of recent years and launching a wonderful programme of events and activities that has something for everyone to enjoy. “Scotland’s winter festivals make a significant contribution to our economy but they are also the perfect way to add some sparkle to our dark nights and get people involved in celebrating Scotland’s culture and creativity.”
The Saltire 2013 event will take place at various locations in East Lothian from 27 November to 1 December 2013.
The Saltire 2013 is is funded by Scotland’s Winter Festivals Programme and managed by EventScotland on behalf of The Scottish Government
For further informationand to book tickets , please visit www.visiteastlothian.org/thesaltire2013
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