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Among the many events held in Edinburgh, The Leith Festival plays a special role. It is a major event dedicated to the arts and can rightly be called a unique platform where famous musicians, actors, artists, and ordinary people can come together to showcase their talents and their great love for the arts.
However, it should be noted that the festival has its own unique history, which can tell many interesting things not only about the event itself but also about those who are directly involved in its organisation.
How It All Began
When talking about The Leith Festival, it’s fair to point out that this event is held annually. In the form that participants and spectators see it today, the festival has been organised since the late 1980s.
But long before that, in 1907, the first Leith Gala was held. Over time, this event expanded significantly, acquiring the status of a large-scale event dedicated to the arts.
Therefore, it can certainly be considered one of the predecessors of the modern festival. Furthermore, it remains an integral part of the latter’s programme.
Organisation
Regarding the organisation of The Leith Festival, it is worth noting that it is actively supported financially by local businesses.
However, the operational side is handled by a dedicated team of volunteers. It is they who work on creating a programme that fully corresponds to the passions and interests of the community.
As a result, audiences get a unique opportunity to enjoy theatre performances, art exhibitions, live concerts, and even food markets. The festival comprises a wide range of diverse events, so everyone can definitely find something to their taste. This is probably what explains the immense popularity of The Leith Festival, both among the local population and among tourists.
The Parade
The most anticipated part of the festival is undoubtedly the parade. This vibrant event kicks everything off. The lively procession combines a musical spectacle, dancing, and incredible costumes. All together, this phenomenon can rightly be called an embodiment of the creative potential and spirit of the entire community.
For All Ages
Speaking of The Leith Festival, another important feature of this event is worth highlighting.
The fact is, the festival is not just a platform for creative individuals to show their talent. It is also a place for a full-fledged exchange of traditions and customs, as well as for improving understanding between different members of society. The event attracts not only local residents – tourists and visitors to the city also eagerly participate. This means there is a unique opportunity to learn more about another culture and even get closer to a foreign language.
Equally important is that the organisers do not forget about the youngest participants of the festival. They are given special attention, allowing children to showcase their own talents and derive great pleasure from the overall atmosphere.
Forging Partnerships
Separately, it is important to mention that The Leith Festival brings together community organisations, businesses, and educational institutions. They are all active participants in the festival, which allows them to establish partnerships and collaborations. This factor, in turn, has a very positive impact on the local economy.
Diving into History
The festival’s rich programme has another interesting component.
Leith is a district of Edinburgh with a very rich history. Therefore, during The Leith Festival, everyone has the opportunity to get better acquainted with the area’s heritage by visiting local landmarks and learning about their fascinating history.
Thus, The Leith Festival can rightly be called one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant festivals. The event covers so many different areas that it’s impossible to focus on just one thing.
A variety of food and drink, masterclasses and workshops, a combination of sport and art, a showcase of diverse crafts, dances, and musical instruments – this is far from the full list of what the festival comprises.
Of course, this is a huge credit to the organisers of the event. It is only thanks to them that they manage to so skilfully select the festival’s themes to attract a wide range of participants and spectators.
But perhaps the most important feature of The Leith Festival is that it helps to unite people and cultivate a sense of endless love for one’s home area, as well as consideration and respect for one another. In our time, this can surely be considered a very worthy and most valuable advantage of the event.