View Menu
Welcome

Peebles Beltane Week

With Queen Victoria‘s Diamond Jubilee in 1897 the burgh revived the old ceremony of riding the marches, linking it with the Beltane Fair, which traced its origins to a charter granted by James VI in 1621.

The Peebles Beltane Week is cancelled for 2021.

 

Peebles Beltane Week

History

Beltane signifies the fire of Bell or Baal and originated from the pagan Celtic festival. The festival was in honour of the power which in early summer gave light, warmth and growth. Wednesday evening sees the installation of the Cornet followed by the Riding of the Marches and a ceremony at Neidpath Castle. Following a series of horse races, the mounted procession leaves for the River Tweed and the evening ends with the dancing of the Cornet‘s Reel. After an early morning rideout on Saturday, Festival Day begins with the proclamation of the historic Beltane Fair and the crowning of the Beltane Queen, followed by a grand procession around the town.

Social

Keep up to date

For up to date information visit Peebles Beltane Week  or contact the Festival by email.

For public transport options to Peebles please visit Traveline Scotland.