Aberdeenshire Council is piloting the Heritage Fairs programme with six communities throughout the summer and autumn of this year. Banchory’s Fair which honours the town’s founding Saint Ternan, will be an opportunity to celebrate local culture and history and could provide the template for heritage fairs for Homecoming Scotland 2009 - a nationally organised and promoted series of activities that will create a year long celebration of Scotland ‘s past, present and future next year.
Sue Edwards, Chair of Banchory District Initiative (BDI) says: “ We’re delighted that Banchory’s St Ternan’s Fair has been chosen as one of the pilots for the heritage fairs. BDI has tried hard to develop and encourage a community experience for the St Ternan’s event over the years and it is encouraging that this work has been recognised. The idea of the Heritage Fair in Homecoming Scotland year is to link in with schools from primary level upwards as well as the arts, heritage organisations, business and community groups who could contribute to a rich and diverse event.
“This is an exciting project and I would encourage any local groups who have not heard about the project and would like to get involved to ring me on 01330 823856 or log onto our website www.banchory.org
Organisers of this year’s Fair are putting the finishing touches to the event which will extend over two days Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th June. There will be a wide range of activities for all ages, including sword fighting, falconry, the annual ferret racing, a summit climbing wall, a medieval encampment and traditional music- all taking place in the central parks in Banchory.
The ‘Banchory Birl’ in the St Ternan Marquee is a Traditional Arts Event which provides ordinary folk with a chance to learn a new instrument or skill (dance - sing - write poetry - tell stories). Banchory Museum & Library will also be running workshops on childrens’ toys and games and the St Ternan's Freemasons are opening their Lodge so that you can delve into their fascinating archive of local history.
Sunday’s events include the Continental Market and a ‘Feel Good Fair ‘which puts the emphasis on a healthy lifestyle. There will be a range of fitness activities including Nordic walking, cycling and trampolining aiming to get people to be more active.