This summer’s Scottish Game Fair festival is expected to give the local economy a £5 million boost as visitors fill surrounding hotels and restaurants.
An estimated 35,000 people are expected to descend on Scone Palace for the three-day event from July 1-3, it was confirmed on Wednesday.
There are now just over two months to go until 400 exhibitors set up shop at the former crowning place of Scottish kings.
The outdoor event, organised by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, is aimed at families and showcases Scottish country pursuits, game cookery, hill ponies, falconry and gundogs.
The game fair was called off in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic but made a return last year, where over 32,000 people attended.
There will be a “strong food and drink theme” this year, with chef Nick Nairn on hand all weekend serving up game dishes in the on-site restaurant.
Run on behalf of the Trust as one of its main annual fundraisers, the event supports a lot of the research, development and education that the charity undertakes.
Show director James Gower commented that this year’s show, which is sponsored by NFU Mutual, has already exceeded expectations: “Trade stand space has sold out and there are more sponsors and celebrities attending than ever before.
“This event has a very clear, strong identity and everyone just loves it.
“The event draws people from all over Scotland.
“The GWCT Scottish Game Fair is the ultimate meeting of the clans and this year will be better than ever.”
GWCT Scotland director Rory Kennedy added: “Everyone can expect yet another fabulous event this year in the format they know and love in the wonderful setting of Scone Palace.
"The event is so important to the region, the industry, our visitors and stakeholders and will provide much-needed funding for the GWCT.
“In fact, this event has been such a success that it has inspired another GWCT Game Fair in Wales this September.”
