Big Rock Newport and Forgan Arts Centre combined forces on Saturday 3rd August to throw the first Lughnasadh Festival in glorious sunshine, enticing Dundee creatives and local support. Hopefully the first of many, the day festival was a real love letter to local talent with bands and artists such as Theo Bleak and Jutebox included in the programme, as well as those from across wider Scotland. A venue that regularly organises crafting workshops as well as community gardening events, Forgan Arts Centre this time was a fantastic suntrap and host for a festival, combining its green and sustainable practices with garden tours, screen-print crafting, and stunning live music. Acts such as Hamish Hawk, Walt Disco and Aiitee all shimmered on stage across the warm afternoon to forge a chilled, summery vibe that was reflected across the faces of children and adults alike. Free Love sadly had to cancel but Glasgow artist Broken Chanter was in the vicinity, offering a lovely surprise for me, having not seeing him play for quite some time.
With clear support from the local community, it was obvious that nearby audiences were delighted to see an event of such high quality not far from their hometown, be it Dundee or Newport-on-Tay itself, relishing in this local arts festival. With over plenty of tickets sold, a smooth set-up, and decent sound-system, there is no reason why Lughnasadh shouldn’t be back next year, with another contemporary Scottish line-up.
A luminating, startling festival, it was great to venture northwards for a family day out featuring great performers, gorgeous talent and musical stalwarts, alongside some local food vendors, craft ciders and friendly venue staff. I’d be astounded if Forgan doesn’t do more of this type of thing.Â
Words by Keira Brown
