29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Mauchline Holy Fair is still Bard to the bone
Running from Saturday May 24 to Saturday May 31, this year's Holy Fair promises an eclectic mix of entertainment and heritage, all culminating in a show-stopping Main Event on the final Saturday. With a packed programme already unveiled – and more acts to be announced in the weeks ahead – this year's festivities are shaping up to be one of the biggest and most diverse yet.
The celebrations begin with a touch of mystery, as Fairburn Hotel hosts a Murder Mystery Night on Saturday May 24, inviting sleuths to crack the case over a thrilling evening of intrigue.
On Tuesday May 27, things take a more academic turn with a lively Quiz Night at the Black Bull Inn, testing locals and visitors alike on their knowledge of Burns and Mauchline's rich local history.
Other highlights across the week include a fascinating Mossgiel Talk at Poosie Nansie's Inn (Monday 26), and on Wednesday 28th, the return of the much-loved 'Burns Women' – a spirited play combining storytelling and song, performed by the Burns Bachelors at the Mauchline KS Club.
Thursday May 29 will see the Songs for All Community Choir and the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra take to the stage at Mauchline Church Hall, bringing with them rousing performances of traditional Scottish music. Then on Friday 30th May, there's a Cosy Night in the Snug at Poosie Nansie's Inn – an intimate celebration of the songs and poetry of Burns, sure to delight fans of the Bard.
The MacDonald Brothers will appear
The grand finale of the week is, of course, Mauchline Holy Fair Day on Saturday May 31. From 11am to 5pm, the village will be transformed into a bustling hub of entertainment, music, and community spirit. A grand parade and pipe band will kick off the day, followed by a range of activities and performances across multiple stages.
On the Main Stage, this year's headliners are none other than The MacDonald Brothers, pictured right inset. Ayrshire's own Craig and Brian MacDonald will bring their celebrated mix of Scot-pop-rock to Mauchline, following a successful international tour. Their multi-instrumental talents and signature vocal harmonies are sure to make for an unforgettable performance.
They'll be joined by the boundary-pushing Unison Anthems, who blend traditional bagpipes with world percussion to perform dynamic covers of artists from Calvin Harris to Adele.
The Holy Fair team are also delighted to be welcoming Jeremy Levif back for 2025. As seen on the Voice UK and The Voice France, Ayrshire-based Levif is a French pop-rock singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, a four-chair turner, semi-finalist of the Voice UK and finalist of The Voice France in 2023!
Also on the bill are the high-energy Borland Ceilidh Band, a staple of Scottish folk festivals known for their infectious enthusiasm and crowd-pleasing sets.
Elsewhere, the Nance Tinnock Stage will be curated once again by the Burns Bachelors, offering poetry, music and storytelling celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Burns.
There's also the Folk Stand, where leading Ayrshire folk acts will perform throughout the day, and Mauchline Church, which will play host to local artists performing traditional music.
For families, the Holy Fair offers plenty to do, with a fair-style kids' play area, face painting, balloons, Uncle Billy, and vintage vehicle displays.
There will also be an art competition and song and music writing sessions for aspiring creatives of all ages.
The evening will round off in spectacular style with the Saturday Night Final Fling – a village dance held in the Mauchline Club from 7.30pm until late, bringing the week to a rousing close. With a programme that blends history, music, community, and celebration, Mauchline Holy Fair 2025 looks set to be a true highlight of the Scottish cultural calendar.
More acts and details are due to be revealed in the coming weeks, so keep an eye on Mauchline Holy Fair's social media and website for updates. One thing is certain – this year's Holy Fair is not to be missed.
