Over 50 Events at Leith Festival, June 8-16

There is no gale that can beat Lìte’s enthusiasm. Leith Festival presents a spectacular nine-day period in the month of June.

The annual community celebration is a colourful explosion of culture, heritage, diversity and creativity which remains strong 100 years after the Festival started.

Welcoming Edinburgh’s busy summertime season, Leith Festival 2013 will run from 8th to 16th June, starting with a taste of events from the Festival displayed in their street launch in Kirkgate Shopping Centre on 7th June from 6pm to 8pm.

The massively popular Leith Festival Gala Day and Pageant is on Saturday 8th June from 11am and is expected to attract around 10,000 people. Commencing from Balfour Street, the Pageant is travelling down Leith Walk heading to Leith Links, bringing together performers, locals and visitors.

Why not wear your best fancy dress to become the main character and centre of attention of Gala Day?

With events ranging from music to art, sport to guided tours, dance to theatre and film to family events, there are over 50 events listed, all taking place in around 39 venues, within a one mile radius of the heart of Leith, showcasing the wealth of Leith’s local talent and community spirit, despite harder times.

A choice of music rhythms from around the world, from Peace Please Ghanaian drumming and dance workshops to Balkan Beats & Swing Grooves, Blues on the Cruz to classical music in The Clanjamfrie.

Theatre performance highlights include Sinatra: The Final Curtain, Sanctuary and Absolute Improv Stories. In sport, join Hibs legends in The Pete Smith Memorial Charity Match.

See Leith’s heritage on walking tours, exhibitions, competitions and activities such as magic, games, food and fun on Molly’s Magical Mystery Mayhem for the whole family.

Also worth a mention is the Festival Radio Show, in collaboration with, and going back to its origins, 98.8 Castle FM broadcasting a three-hour-weekly live show leading up to the festival, and a daily programme during Festival week, helping to promote events and will include live performances and interviews.

Finally, celebrate the end of this year’s extravaganza with the Leith Festival finale, the Tattoo closing ceremony on 16th June.

The Festival also seeks volunteers who might help in advance or during the Festival period. Details are on the Festival website.