Nithraid RIVER FESTIVAL

Nithraid, the colourful annual celebration of the River Nith is on Saturday 15th August. High tide and with it the boats, arrives at around 2.45 – 3pm. The activities on Mill Green (https://maps.app.goo.gl/nP6sHE9L1i55JWJC9) start at 12 noon

The 2026 spectacular Progress of the Salty Coo (procession) from the centre of town to the river will leave at approx 2pm. Led by artist Alex Rigg of Oceanallover it will feature contributions from communities along the path of the Nith and a performance on arrival at Mill Green. All welcome to come and join in. Gather at Planestanes 1.30pm.

Theres a vibrant new programme on Mill Green staring from 12 noon. The full programme will be released shortly

You’ll find the popular flag design workshop run by EcoArt and as in previous years all the colourful community made flags carrying their environmental messages will fly from the pedestrian bridge. There’ll be family workshops, demonstrations, talks and exhibitions. The Moving Images film caravan will also be back, screening river themed films and animations.

All events at Nithraid are FREE! We look forward to seeing you there

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Programme

The Progress of the Salty Coo
Gather 1.30pm. Planestanes Dumfries. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/GUF2aqTVwyq8U9c68)
Leave approx 2pm.
Arrive Mill Green 2.40pm (approx)
The spectacular progress of the Salty Coo through the town centre, over the Devorgilla Bridge and to Mill Green will bring communities together from along the Nith, each with individually designed elements reflecting their relationship with the river. With costumes designed by Alex Rigg of Oceanallover, music and choreography, this is something not to be missed.
Come and join in, there’ll be flags and banners to be carried.

River Race
Starts 1.15pm (approx) at Lifeboat Station, Glencaple
Boats arrive approx 2.45pm – 3pm between Mill Green Dumfries and Whitesands steps
Bring a picnic and come and watch the boats arrive!
2.45pm High Water Dumfries
3.45pm (approx) Boats depart

Mill Green Activities
12am – 5pm
Keeping at its heart the spectacular fun of the river race, the Rite of the Salty Coo and its festive atmosphere, the Mill Green brings audiences an array of free creative activities and events with an environmental focus. Timetable and more information coming soon

3.45pm (approx) The Salty Coo is committed to the waters as the boats leave.