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Edinburgh to take part in Scotland’s biggest ever Festival of Museums in May
Scotland’s leading attractions are gearing up for the Festival of Museums this May, with the world’s leading festival city at its heart.
Museum Galleries Scotland has announced plans to launch the largest ever Festival of Museums programme, with a record-breaking 130+ events lined up in museums across Scotland. As you might expect, Edinburgh is leading the way with an incredible 26 events throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians.
The Festival will take place between 19th and 21st May and will celebrate Scotland’s rich and captivating history. Taking you on a journey from the Picts and Border Clansmen and the bloody adventures of the Vikings to the glamourous indulgences of the Georgians and Edwardians, visitors will get to see every period of Scotland’s history catered for across this action-packed weekend.
Asked about the importance of such a festival, Culture Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, stated: “The event has become a diary fixture with museums and galleries and raises their profile and reputation with visitors.”
Chief Executive of Museums Galleries Scotland, Joanne Orr, also expressed her excitement at the return of the Festival of Museums, particularly the events it will bring to Edinburgh. She said, “This year’s Festival of Museums is bigger, bolder and more exciting than ever. The action-packed weekend will give visitors in Edinburgh and the Lothians a chance to celebrate culture, discover history and learn something new – as well as have some fun. We want to ignite imaginations and to encourage people to explore Scotland’s incredible museums and galleries.”
Museums Galleries Scotland is the national development body for Scotland’s galleries and museums, and has spearheaded this year’s fantastic Festival. They provide grant funding and support for participating establishments.
Any museum across Scotland can get involved no matter how small they are, simply by creating a fun and unique event for visitors to enjoy.
What will the Festival of Museums bring to Edinburgh?
The Festival will bring 26 incredible events across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Here’s a snapshot of just some of the things you won’t want to miss:
An Edwardian Affair
Saturday 20th May, City Art Centre
Enjoy an Edwardian-themed afternoon tea served by costumed performers, in honour of Edwardian Edinburgh.
Large Scale Animation of Edinburgh
Sunday 21st May, City Art Centre
A great event for all the family. This is a fast-paced animation session which lets you create a large charcoal animation inspired by the incredible ‘Edinburgh Alphabet’ exhibition.
Vintage Gala Day
Saturday 20th May, Prestongrange Museum
Travel through time with this gala day celebrating 65 years since the opening of the Pithead Baths in 1952.
Tour of the Anatomical Museum
Friday 19th May, Anatomical Museum
Get a rare behind the scenes tour of the University of Edinburgh’s Anatomical Museum, lasting 45 minutes.
Public Art Trail: Scientists, Animals and Cells, Oh My!
Saturday 20th May, University of Edinburgh Art Collection
A special one-time guided tour of the Kings Building Campus, revealing its rich history and heritage.
An Evening with Dark Edinburgh
Friday 19th May, St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room and Music Museum
The man behind the incredible Dark Edinburgh photography gives a talk and workshop detailing how to create stunning images in Edinburgh.
These are just a handful of the events on offer, and with numerous activities for kids and adults alike including treasure trails, public art events, historical re-enactments, theatre performances, feasts and a silent disco. Visit the Festival of Museums website for more information.
Wish you lived closer to the action
If the idea of living in the world’s number one festival city appeals to you, then maybe it’s time you made the move to Quartermile. As the Scottish capital’s most desirable new district, Quartermile offers a blends of cafes, gyms, retail outlets and of course, luxury apartments all just minutes from the Royal Mile and Princes Street.
To find out more about what Quartermile can offer, why not book an appointment to take a tour by calling 0845 000 2525.