Well that’s a wrap – What a month July was, with four fabulous local events taking place.
Bute Vintage Club Tractor Rally – 6th July
The month kicked off with the Bute Vintage Club tractor rally on the 6th of July. This year saw a record-breaking turnout with 151 tractors of all ages, makes, and models. The parade of tractors, proudly driven from the Sailing Club to Kingarth Hotel, allowed the public to get a closer look and chat with the enthusiastic owners. It was a great event enjoyed by everyone involved.
Annual Sheepdog Trials – 11th to 14th July
The annual sheepdog trials were held from the 11th to the 14th of July across three of the island's most picturesque farms: Plan Farm, Scalpsie Farm, and Ardross Farm. Even as a non-farmer, I am always amazed by the skill and coordination between the dogs and their handlers. It’s truly magical to watch these trials in such stunning settings. Find out more here. https://trialsofbute.co.uk
Bute Artist Studio Trail – 20th to 21st July
Despite some damp weather, the Bute Artist Studio Trail on the 20th and 21st of July was a resounding success. With 26 venues showcasing the works of 35 local artists, this event continues to grow better each year. The trail offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the island while enjoying a stunning array of art, including paintings, woodcraft, upholstery, pottery, and leathercraft. These talented locals welcomed the public into their studios, workshops, and garden sheds, many offering refreshments and homemade cakes. Mark your calendar for next year’s trail; it’s not to be missed! Learn more about the trail here
https://www.butestudiotrail.com
Butefest – 26th to 28th July
The grand finale of July was Butefest, the Isle of Bute’s premier music event, held from the 26th to the 28th. After years of enduring torrential rain and gales, the festival finally enjoyed beautiful weather. The sun shone brightly, bringing out fun-loving music enthusiasts in droves. Butefest truly lived up to its reputation as a kickass event.
Spanning three days, the festival catered to families with activities like kids' storytelling, puppetry, craft workshops, face painting, and giant bubbles. Food and drink stalls ensured everyone was well-fed and hydrated. The music, of course, was the highlight, with a terrific lineup of musicians and bands keeping the crowd dancing, stomping, and clapping well into the night. This year’s pirate theme was embraced wholeheartedly, with pirates of all shapes and sizes, including some ‘banana pirates,’ adding to the fun. Discover more about Butefest here.
A Heartfelt Thank You
A huge thank you to all the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly, sacrificing their own time to make these events happen. In our fast-paced digital world, where so many of our interactions are virtual, it’s easy to forget the importance of face-to-face connections. Here on Bute, we are fortunate to have a close-knit community where knowing shopkeepers by name and bumping into familiar faces is the norm. These small interactions are vital for our well-being, and I, for one, truly appreciate them.
