FAMILY-FRIENDLY festival Doune the Rabbit Hole – often described as mini Scottish Glastonbury – kicked off on Thursday night at the Cardross Estate in Stirlingshire.
The event, described as “one of the UK’s best small family festivals” by The Guardian, echoed the music of Patti Smith as it opened its gates to the public.
Across the nine stages, more than 200 Scottish and international acts, as well as hundreds of workshops, talks and activities will continue to take place until tomorrow, with thousands of attendees expected to join in the fun.
Doune the Rabbit Hole Festival director Jamie Murray said: “We’re so delighted to be back with an incredible weekend of amazing entertainment and unique experiences for people of all ages.
“Our Thursday night, acts got things off to an unforgettable start and has set the tone for all of the brilliant performances still to come this weekend.
“Seeing people gathered, dancing and enjoying the music all together once again was terrific.
“We’ve added so many new additions to the festival this year so it really is bigger and better than ever.
“It feels so special to be welcoming visitors old and new to Cardross Estate once again.
“It’s been a long wait for the return of Doune but all worth it in the end.
“Making the festival an inclusive, family-friendly space is also so important to us and this is my first Doune the Rabbit Hole as a parent myself, so it’s all the more poignant.
“It’s amazing to see so many people of all ages flocking through the gates and to get the weekend under way.”
Yesterday, guests were treated to Scottish singer-songwriter Amy MacDonald’s headlining set, and today they’ll dance the night away to bands such as Belle & Sebastian, 10cc and Tide Lines. On the bill tomorrow are Rasputin singers Boney M and Glaswegian rockers Teenage Fanclub among the many other acts.
And it’s not just the music. The Family Field offers a play arena and comedy for the wee ones.
Night-time cinema, arts and crafts, acrobats and clowns are some of the many activities to help the kids entertained, while the adults can kick back with a beer from one of the many vendors.
If that’s not your style, the event also offers workshops, educational talks, comedy events and even yoga and wellness activities. Not even the dug will be left behind, as the festival is dog friendly.
Tickets can still be grabbed on the door if you fancy visiting the famous festival.
