The Sound of Summer – Scotland’s Music Festivals 2016

By Contributor -

The Proclaimers are leaving Leith behind to headline at Party at the Park

This summer, there are music festivals all over Scotland. From large scale events attracting the biggest names in rock and pop to intimate free gigs by local musicians, here are four music festivals we’re hoping to have a wee boogie at this summer!

Mo Fest May 27-29

Mo Fest is expected to attract over 15,000 people to over 120 gigs in venues throughout the Angus seaside town of Montrose, with the majority of the gigs being free.

This is the ninth Mo Fest and many old favourites are returning, alongside new and local acts, with performances in pubs, Montrose High Street, cafes, beer gardens and churches, as well as an outdoor stage overlooking the beautiful beach.

Every year, Mo Fest successfully attracts the some of the very best acts, including this year’s headliners, Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, who will be playing on May 27.

Cupar Arts Festival June 18-25

The Fife town of Cupar is set to come alive with the sights and sounds of an eclectic mix of art and music at this year’s Cupar Arts Festival. Free gigs by an array of Scottish musicians and bands will run alongside the main programme of art from twenty established contemporary artists.

The festival kicks off with a free launch party on Saturday 18 June at 12 noon, with music at 4pm from electronic duo Stephen Lee and Mark Small – and street food prepared by Fife’s food ambassador, Christopher Trotter.

Live music continues throughout the week with free concerts from David Webster and Stevie Anderson of Sinderins; the eclectic Onion Club and the upbeat bluegrass Wire and Wool.

Party at the Palace August 13-14

McEwan’s Party at The Palace 2016 is set to be this summer’s biggest party! Following on from the success of last year’s event and set against the stunning backdrop of Linlithgow Palace, this year’s two day spectacular is set to be another highlight in Scotland’s live music calendar.

Headliners on August 13 include The Proclaimers, The Fratellis, Bootleg Beatles and Gun, while Billy Ocean, Andy Bell, The Farm, Heaven 17 and Big Country are the headliners on August 14.

In addition, a second stage will showcase emerging talent, local acts and one or two acts who already have a great track record.

Midstock September 3

Midstock Festival 2016 will take place at Dalkeith Country Park, where million-selling British pop band Scouting For Girls will be the event’s headliners.

“Any Scottish audiences are great but we hear this one likes to party and we’re all set to rock the place!” Scouting For Girls proclaimed when they were announced as headliners – so get ready to party!

The Midstock line-up also includes Reverend and the Makers,The Pigeon Detectives,Vengaboys and Dave Pearce, as well as local performers Jack Robertson and Caitlyn Vanbeck.