Following a record-breaking turnout at the 2022 event, the Big Gorbals Fair returns this June promising fun for the whole community.
The parade will get the festivities underway from 11.15am, where it will leave from The Barn Youth Centre on Abbotsford Place, making its way through the Gorbals to the Gorbals Piazza on Crown Street. The Fair will then be officially opened by MSP and former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at 12pm.
Led by DJ Steph, Gorbals Piazza is home to the performance zone, which will feature a line-up of community dance, music and theatre groups, including Citizens Theatre Community Collective, BeFabulous Dance Group and several other confirmed acts.
At Gorbals Rose Garden there’s a host of activities for children and families to take part in, from Mini Highland Games and Archery to family stories and singalongs, whilst Blackfriars Primary School hosts the fun zone, full of fairground rides and football sessions.
Michael Fullerton, Community Co-ordinator at New Gorbals Housing Association said:
“Last year was a massive success with lots of Gorbals people coming together, many for the first time since Covid 19 and lockdown. We were very lucky with the weather but even luckier that the community got behind us to take part in the parade and activities, as well as to support their fellow Gorbals neighbours on stage.
“I hope we can build on that this year, with a number of partners and providers all pulling together to offer entertainment and activities across the Gorbals so that there’s something for everyone on offer.”
In addition to the three dedicated zones, the emergency services will also be on hand, with families able to explore a fire engine and police riot van or learn CPR. For those in need of some chill time, Gorbals Parish Church will host therapeutic sessions from SEAL such as massage and shiatsu, as well as free tea and coffee.
Linda Muirhead from Giggle N Grow, a local project run by The South Glasgow Childcare Partnership Forum, said:
“We are delighted to be involved in the Fair again this year, offering our Move, Dance, Go family activities. It’s great to see many different people in the community come together to celebrate and take part on the day.
“As well as Giggle N Grow activities, there are plenty of things to join in and do at the Rose Garden. From arts and crafts to tug of war there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy.”
A selection of food and drink will also be available on the day, with SEAL offering free fruit bags at Gorbals Parish Church, plus Ann's Fry, Scottish Pizza Co, hotdogs and snacks will be available in the Piazza.