2 days ago
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World Pipe Band Championships road closures as contest returns to Glasgow
The world's biggest pipe band event returns to Glasgow Green on August 15 and 16, where it's been held since 1986
Thousands of pipers and drummers from across the globe are set to descend on Glasgow Green this summer, as the World Pipe Band Championships return to the city in August.
The internationally renowned event, the largest of its kind in the world, will take place on Friday August 15 and Saturday August 16. Glasgow has hosted the championships since 1946, and has been its permanent home since 1986, Glasgow Live reports.
More than 7,000 musicians are expected to take part, with the opening day featuring performances from Grade One bands and the Juvenile Competition. The main championships will follow on Saturday, drawing spectators from around the world.
Last year's event saw 204 bands from 13 countries compete, including groups from as far afield as Australia, Oman and Hong Kong. Of those, 119 bands hailed from Scotland. Northern Ireland had the second highest number of participants, followed by the United States. An estimated 35,000 people attended the event in 2023.
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: 'The World Pipe Band Championships is an iconic event that is incredibly important to the global piping community.
"Bringing together in Glasgow the very best bands in the world, it's always spectacular and an unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators alike.
'Last year's Worlds saw 204 bands from 13 countries taking part, and more than 7,000 pipers and drummers taking to the field at Glasgow Green to compete in the ultimate 'battle of the bands'.
'We can certainly expect another wonderful showcase of piping and drumming at this year's event on 15 and 16 August, with a hard-fought contest for all of the categories and of course, the title of this year's world champions.
"As always, tickets will be in great demand, so we'd encourage everyone planning to come along to book their tickets as soon as possible.'
Tickets are now on sale, with prices starting from £13.50 for adults on Friday and £25 on Saturday. Weekend tickets are also available, starting at £32 for adults and £72 for families.
The World Pipe Band Championships form part of the wider Piping Live! Festival, which runs from August 11 to 17. Celebrating its 22nd year, the festival attracts around 30,000 people annually and features live performances, workshops and events.
The National Piping Centre in Cowcaddens will serve as the main hub, with a new outdoor stage set up in front of the building.
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Road closures are planned to accommodate the event, affecting parts of the London Road area from 4am on 15 August to 11.59pm on 16 August.
Affected streets include Charlotte Street between Greendyke Street and London Road, the full length of both east and west carriageways, and Greendyke Street between Turnbull Street and London Road.
The event is organised by the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association and delivered in partnership with Glasgow Life, the city council's cultural body.
Further details and ticket bookings can be found via Glasgow Life.
