Legacy Blog

Best Things to do for fun in Glasgow in the Summer of 2016

With the weather starting to drift into ‘taps aff’ territority, that can only mean one thing, summer is on its way! So it’s time to start thinking about fun activities to do over the summer months, and there's plenty going on in Glasgow to get involved in. Here's a list of the top picks in the city this summer.

West End Festival, 3-26 June, various locations

An eclectic arts festival that's now in its 21st year, the West End Festival is guaranteed to have something for everyone. Hundreds of events under the festival's umbrella will be taking place in different venues around the city, and these vary from folk and rock music to comedy, exhibitions and talks. The festival strives to maintain a focus on the spirit of community, and many of the events are free to attend.

Shotts Highland Games, 4 June, Hannah Park, Shotts

A true Scottish tradition dating back centuries, Highland Games were originally a way for men to show off their skills to Kings or Clan Chieftans in the hopes of landing a job. Nowadays, they're a fantastic way to experience an authentic piece of Scotland's history in the form of an exciting and unique day out. Among the events taking place during the games are Highland dances, tossing the caber and throwing the 16lb Scots hammer.

Homeless World Cup, 10-16 July, George Square

The 14th annual football tournament for homeless players comes to Glasgow for the first time, having previously been hosted in places as far afield as Brazil, Australia, South Africa and Poland. The game uses a fast-paced reinterpretation of football rules and gives homeless people from 51 different countries an amazing chance to change their lives forever by competing in this one-of-a-kind tournament. Up to 100,000 people are expected to head out to watch all the action and support their team. Scotland have previously won twice; can they manage a third victory at home?

Merchant City Festival, 30 July-7 August, various locations

With a wide range of events and activities for all ages and tastes, the festival celebrates the Merchant City area of Glasgow as a cultural centre. Over the course of nine days, a huge selection of arts and entertainment events both Scottish and international will take place. Last year, the offerings in the programme were as diverse as food and drink, comedy, Gaelic sport, film and a range of musical genres. The 2016 festival is certain to keep you busy, whatever your interests.

World Pipe Band Championships, 12-13 August, Glasgow Green

Known by its fans simply as 'The Worlds', the annual competition centres around Scotland's best known musical instrument, the bagpipes. With the worlds best pipers all in one place, it's sure to be an impressive weekend as over 200 bands battle it out in a must-see for piping fans. On the Friday the day is taken up just with the competition as bands vie for a place in the finals, but the Saturday sees an extended programme of events. These include Highland dancing, a drum major competition, and a kids' zone. The highlight of the weekend is sure to be the March Past, when every band in the contest joins together in procession – an amazing spectacle. Tickets for the competition are on sale now.