The Wickerman '08

The Wickerman Festival was born out of a desire to recreate the counter culture vibe of festivals from a bygone era and the Wickerman is fast becoming a haven for those festival goers who are disillusioned with the blandness and outright commercialism of larger events hijacked by the corporate behemoths.

Established since 2002, the festival takes place on 120 acres of prime Galloway grazing land at East Kirkcarswell Farm, Dundrennan. The festival is headed up by the infectiously enthusiastic landowner Jamie Gilroy. He feels that 'although on a smaller scale to Glastonbury or T in the Park, the Wickerman seems to have the right formula which is a relaxed, family friendly event with the accent on eclectic tastes in music'. He also adds 'We have a broad fan base who for a couple of days can enjoy the freedom of wide open spaces away from the urban sprawl and daily grind'.

The festival features two main stages, a world music and funk tent, eden zone, a classic Jamaican reggae sound system, acoustic village, scooter tent, children’s area, workshops, beer tent, crafts, camping and, of course, not forgetting a 30 foot Wickerman who is sacrificed to the festival gods on the Saturday night.

7stanes Goes to the Wickerman.

Within deepest, darkest Galloway the two coolest activities by far have got to be riding the 7stanes trails and groovin' at the Wickerman Festival.

The Wickerman, themed on the cult 70's movie of the same name, has gained a reputation within festi goers for being laidback, family friendly, eclectic and as far removed from the corporate behemoths as you can get.

8 stages will feature over 100 acts including KT Tunstall, The Fall, Gary Numan, Alabama Three, Bez, Sham 69, Dodgy, Sonic Boom Six, Annie Nightingale and much, much more.

In addition to the musical entertainment there are movie making workshops, kid's area, chainsaw juggling, secret golf, water powered bovines and mountain bike displays to keep even the most jaded festi goer interested.

For more information on the Wickerman Festival, which takes place on the 25th and 26th July near Kirkcudbright, you can log on to www.thewickermanfestival.co.uk

Tickets are a very reasonable £75 which includes three nights camping and parking, kids under 12 are admitted free.

Click on the links to find out more about the Wickerman Packages or Download the Wickerman '08 poster: