WILD GOOSE FESTIVAL PRESENTS
WHERE IN THE WILD
In 2026, Wild Goose Festival takes a new shape with Where in the Wild – bringing storytelling to the forefront, tracing connections between the long life of the land and the lives we lead upon it. From a gathering space in Dumfries to journeys across the region, it offers many ways to take part.
Where in the Wild invites us to share the stories that connect our lives with the land, water and living things around us. Some stories begin close to home; others cross seas and generations. All of them can change how we see the places we know.
Inspired by the journeys of the geese that return to the Solway, this year’s project follows journeys of many kinds. We’ll gather stories in Dumfries, travel into communities across Dumfries and Galloway, and make room for encounters with nature, creativity and one another.
You are part of nature. Your story belongs here.
WILD GOOSE FESTIVAL
Every year, wild geese make their way from Svalbard, to the banks of the Solway. Their arrival is one of the great rhythms of Dumfries and Galloway, a reminder that the places we call home are connected to a much wider world.
Produced by The Stove Network, Wild Goose Festival brings people together through nature, creativity and place. Since 2020, it has invited people of all ages to walk, listen, learn, make and look again at the landscapes around them.
In 2026, the festival takes a new shape with Where in the Wild. This focused project brings storytelling to the forefront, tracing connections between the long life of the land and the lives we lead upon it. From a gathering space in Dumfries to journeys across the region, it offers many ways to take part.
“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your committed and continuing work for Wild Goose Festival… This work is invaluable both in educating and celebrating what Dumfries & Galloway has to offer with its migratory visitors.
It is encouraging to see so many organisations getting involved in the festival which, I understand, will include walks, talks, workshops and storytelling to people of all ages. This festival also has an important conservation message, evermore important in the current global twin climate and nature emergencies.”
– Emma Harper, MSP Representing South Scotland – 2023