October 2022: Braemar Folk and Literature Festivals

Well what an amazing few weeks at St Margaret’s!

October started with our second Braemar folk festival headlined by “Caledonia” singer Dougie MacLean on the Friday night. Some of Scotland’s most gifted traditional musicians thrilled audiences over the weekend on the stage and in many informal sessions in the pubs.

It was great as well to see not only St Margaret’s packed to the rafters but also the many cafes and eateries throughout the village enjoying the custom of the hundreds of people who came to enjoy the music.

Then we’ve just finished the very first Braemar Literary Festival hosted and organised by the Fife Arms Hotel in collaboration with HM The Queen Consort’s “Reading Room”.

Saturday’s packed sessions included talks by “Birdsong” author Sebastian Faulks and “Rebus” creator Ian Rankin (see picture) but there was much for book fans to savour throughout the weekend at many other venues.

I also know many of the authors took the chance to sample our local food and drink and wonderful scenery.

Ian Rankin says he’s a regular visitor here so maybe one day Braemar will feature in a murder mystery!

Next up is “Legendary Deeside” in Ballater on the 20th October and Queen’s Cross Church in Aberdeen on the 22nd. This is a specially-commissioned piece celebrating the myths and stories of our wonderful area and not be missed.

Next month we have traditional music superstars Session A9 at St Margaret’s and as the days get colder our second winter festival at the start of December, Festival de Noel.

As usual keep your eyes on our social media for full details.

Happy reading!

Brian Wood

Chair

St Margaret’s Trust