Events & Festivals

Newcastleton Traditional Music Festival

The Newcastleton Traditional Music Festival is one of the Scottish Borders' premier folk music events, attracting musicians and visitors from across the UK and beyond. This annual celebration typically takes place in summer and transforms the village into a hub of traditional Scottish music, song, and dance.

When: Summer (typically July)
Duration: Long weekend
Atmosphere: Family-friendly, community-focused

What to Expect

The festival features a rich program of concerts, sessions, workshops, and informal gatherings. Village venues come alive with fiddles, accordions, bagpipes, and voices celebrating Scotland's musical heritage.

• Concert performances: Headline acts and emerging talent
• Session sessions: Join in or listen to impromptu music circles
• Workshops: Learn from experienced musicians
• Ceilidhs: Traditional Scottish dancing for all ages
• Street performances: Music throughout the village
• Family activities: Events for children and young people

Planning Your Visit

The music festival is Newcastleton's busiest time of year. Book accommodation well in advance, as the village and surrounding area fill quickly with festival-goers. Many visitors return year after year, making it a reunion as much as a festival.

The festival atmosphere extends beyond ticketed events, with spontaneous music sessions in pubs and outdoor spaces. Even if you're not attending formal concerts, the village buzzes with musical energy throughout the weekend.

Copshaw Common Riding

The Copshaw Common Riding is Newcastleton's connection to the ancient Border tradition of riding the marches - ceremonially patrolling town boundaries on horseback. This historic custom dates back centuries and celebrates the village's Border heritage.

When: Summer (typically July)
Tradition: Centuries-old Border custom
Participants: Local riders and community

The Common Riding Tradition

Common Ridings are unique to Border towns, originating from times when local people needed to patrol and defend their common lands and town boundaries. In an era of raids and disputes, riding the marches ensured no encroachment on town property and maintained territorial integrity.

While the practical need has long passed, the tradition continues as a celebration of community identity, Border history, and horsemanship. Each Border town has its own variations, but all share the core elements of mounted riders, ceremony, and community pride.

Copshaw Common Riding Day

The Copshaw Common Riding follows traditional patterns while reflecting Newcastleton's specific character:

• Early morning start: Riders assemble at dawn
• The ride out: Mounted procession through the village
• Boundary riding: Circuit of traditional routes
• Return celebration: Community gathering with speeches and festivities
• Social events: Dances and gatherings extending the celebration

Non-riders are very much part of the day, lining streets to cheer the riders, joining the return celebrations, and participating in associated events. It's a day when the whole community comes together to honor shared heritage.

Other Annual Events

Village Gala Day

A traditional summer community event with activities for all ages. Features games, stalls, entertainment, and the crowning of the gala queen. A quintessentially Scottish village celebration.

Agricultural Show

Celebrating the Border's farming heritage with livestock competitions, rural crafts, and agricultural displays. A window into the working countryside that surrounds Newcastleton.

Christmas Lights Switch-On

The village marks the start of the festive season with the ceremonial lighting of Christmas decorations, accompanied by carol singing and seasonal refreshments.

Community Calendar

Beyond major festivals, Newcastleton maintains an active community calendar throughout the year:

• Weekly events: Village hall activities, club meetings, social gatherings
• Church services: Regular worship and special occasions
• Sports fixtures: Local team competitions and matches
• Seasonal celebrations: Burns Night, Easter events, Hogmanay

Check with local venues and accommodation providers for current event schedules during your visit.

Visiting for Events

Accommodation

During major events, especially the music festival, accommodation in Newcastleton and surrounding areas books out months in advance. Plan early and consider:

• Booking as soon as festival dates are announced
• Exploring accommodation in nearby villages
• Checking for home stays and temporary festival accommodation
• Considering camping options if available

Getting There

During events, roads through the village may be busier than usual. Allow extra time for travel and parking. Some events may have temporary parking arrangements - check event information before you travel.

What to Bring

For outdoor elements of events:

• Weather-appropriate clothing (Border weather is changeable)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection in summer
• Layers for variable conditions

Getting Involved

Many Newcastleton events welcome participation beyond attendance. Musicians can join sessions at the festival, volunteers help with event organization, and visitors from afar often become part of the extended community.

The warmth of Border hospitality means visitors are genuinely welcomed, not just as tourists but as participants in community traditions. This openness is part of what makes Newcastleton's events special.