In Another Realm with The Travelling Gallery
2025-10-23 10:00 - 15:00 UTC | Dumfries and Galloway Council Museums Service, Dumfries Museum, Rotchell Road, Dumfries, DG2 7SW
In Another Realm, a group exhibition developed in collaboration with Sculpture Placement Group (SPG) and featuring the work of artists Laura Aldridge, Nick Evans, Louise Gibson, Aimee Lax, Aniara Omann & Daisy Richardson.

In Another Realm takes inspiration from science fiction’s engagement with the environment and the genre’s value as a tool for thinking critically about climate change. The selection of works on display in the exhibition suggest an imaginary world and landscape, where traces of human existence can be found, but where life is continuing without us.

Throughout 2025, Travelling Gallery has been touring exhibitions themed around The Environment & Climate Emergency. For In Another Realm we have worked with Sculpture Placement Group (SPG). SPG develop creative initiatives and tools for artists and the wider arts sector to address the urgent challenges posed by the Climate Emergency. The exhibition highlights their Loan Toolkit, an initiative that loans artworks to community groups and organisations. The scheme provides an opportunity for artists to extend the life-cycle of artworks, often languishing in long-term storage and it brings work to new audiences.

This exhibition foregrounds SPG’s vision to provide new display opportunities for existing artworks. It looks to playfully exploit the idea of creating an alternate form of existence for them. This world could be beyond the ordinary and could perhaps exist in parallel to or beyond our current physical world.Accessibility InformationWe continue to assure that our gallery meets the social model of disability. This includes pavement level access and/or a ramp for wheelchairs, push chairs etc. We offer large print format exhibition interpretation. Subtitling and audio descriptions of films are available where appropriate or we can provide a transcript.

There is always a member of the Travelling Gallery team present to discuss any accessibility needs and to interpret in whatever way we can.

If you have any questions regarding access to our gallery please send an email to travellinggallery@edinburgh.gov.uk

Beads of Migration Workshop with Sonny Cooper
2025-10-23 11:00 - 14:00 | The Wild Goose Festival Hub, Carers Centre, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2PW, United Kingdom
As part of The Wild Goose Festival, join jeweller Sonny for a creative drop-in workshop exploring the many journeys of migration. Just as geese travel great distances across borders, people have long moved between places, carrying stories, traditions, and connections with them.

In this workshop, you’ll use our map of the world and a selection of colourful beads, each linked to different countries and regions, to design your own bracelet. The beads become a way to reflect on movement and belonging, while giving you the freedom to create something completely personal.

This hands-on activity is suitable for all ages, encouraging both creativity and conversation about movement, belonging, and connection. So drop in and create a unique piece of jewellery that tells a migration story.

Sonah—known also as Sonny—is a Scottish‐Pakistani jeweller, historian, and maker based in Scotland. A self‐taught artist, Sonny crafts handcrafted, story‐rich pieces from responsibly sourced and recycled metals, forging meaningful connections between past and present. Passionate about story telling, their pieces result in heirloom‐worthy treasures with minimal environmental impact.Explore more at sonnycooperjewellery.co.uk or follow @sonny_cooper_jewellery for an inside look into this creative journey.

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users – access via ramp.

Expo 2025 with Out of the Blueprint
2025-10-23 12:00 - 16:00 | Print House, 137 High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BH
2025 marks 10 years of Out of the Blueprint.

Out of the Blueprint is a Leith based riso studio, which supports young artists under 25 through traineeships, residencies, workshops, commissions and print projects.

In the summer of 2025, the studio celebrated it’s 10th birthday with a special three week Print Expo, featuring work from it’s four most recent resident artists, as well as four brand new zine commissions and exclusive T-shirts designed and printed by 8 artists.

Out of the Blueprint is delighted to bring a selection of work down to The Stove’s new riso room, giving people a chance to see and be inspired by some of Scotland’s freshest young print artists working today.

Mermaids in Dumfries and Galloway: Folklore, Place-names and Poetry with Dumfries Museum
2025-10-23 14:00 - 15:00 | The Wild Goose Festival Hub, Carers Centre, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2PW, United Kingdom
This talk will explore the many mermaid legends in Dumfries and Galloway. The stories and accounts are often surprising with mermaids caught on hooks by fishermen, being negatively affected by pollution or acting as healers and protectors of water supplies. There are many representations of mermaids in fiction, folklore, poetry and art in our region – including examples in Dumfries Museum. Join us to discover all things mermaid from Dalbeattie to Crawick via the mermaid’s chair!

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users – access via ramp.

Goose Roost on Sandflats Walk with RSPB
2025-10-23 17:30 - 19:30 | RSPB Mersehead, RSPB Mersehead Nature Reserve, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH, United Kingdom
Some of the greatest spectacles of nature take place at dusk. Join our guide to enjoy Svalbard barnacle geese descending on the sandflats and reserve to roost. ¾mile/1.3km walk down to the shore, to view geese as they fly over onto the sandflats.

Event InformationSuitable for adults and children aged 12+.Additional car park charge applies for non-RSPB members.There may be some standing around for a while once in position. Please wrap up warmly, come prepared for cold or wet weather and bring a torch for safe return to the car park afterwards. All children must be accompanied by ticketed adults. Please note, as the reserve location is prone to flooding, we ask that all individuals/groups attending provide a telephone number, so we can notify you in advance if the event is cancelled.

Accessibility InformationAccess over the sand-dunes is not suitable for normal wheelchairs.Firm, mostly surfaced path along route. Distance: 2+miles/3.4km. Visibility will diminish, with return walk in darkness.

From £5 Booking Required

A Bardy Gather In with Margot Henderson & DJ McDowell
2025-10-23 19:00 - 22:00 | Coach & Horses Inn, 66 Whitesands, Dumfries, DG1 2RS
Don’t be a lone goose, come and join us for a good aul gaggle, a wee gather in with poetry and song from guest artist Margot Henderson, and some Doonhame bletherin’ from local host DJ McDowall.

Touring musician Jack Hinks will be performing some of his songs from his album “Kinsugi” with a bit of improvisation and play throughout the night.

Recycled Crafts: Badge Making with Wren Winters
2025-10-24 10:30 - 12:30
Join the Wild Goose Festival Project Coordinator for a creative session turning secondhand books into art! Using old natural history books, crayons, pens, and collage, join us for an opportunity to make your own Goose themed badge!

Barnacle Goose Bonanza Gander with RSPB
2025-10-24 11:00 - 13:00 | RSPB Mersehead, RSPB Mersehead Nature Reserve, Southwick, Dumfries, DG2 8AH, United Kingdom
Be immersed in returning Svalbard Barnacle Geese, nearby and above our heads as we head down to one of the hides at Mersehead. With flocks of ducks, geese and wading birds arriving in massive numbers. This will give you a chance to see it all close-up and learn how we manage this special place for nature.

Event InformationSuitable for adults and children aged 7+.Families welcome, with a scavenger hunt for kids (though not suitable for early years).All children must be accompanied by ticketed adults. Please come prepared for cold or wet weather and bring binoculars if you have some (we will provide a telescope for extra close viewing).

Please note, as the reserve location is prone to flooding, we ask that all individuals/groups attending provide a telephone number, so we can notify you in advance if the event is cancelled.

Accessibility InformationThis walk will take place along our wheelchair accessible trail.Mostly wheelchair accessibleDistance: 2+miles/3.4km

From £5 Booking Required

River Writes with DJ McDowell & Margot Henderson
2025-10-24 11:30 - 13:30 | Wild Goose Festival Hub, Dumfries & Galloway Carers Centre, 2-6 Nith Street, DG1 2PW
Join DJ McDowell & Margot Henderson for a reflective writing walk along the river Nith, following the rhythm and rhyme of the river as it flows through place and time.

We’ll share some simple writing prompts on

coming back to our senses in the present

imagining what the river remembers

the histories and mysteries it holds

dreaming the future that has yet to unfold.

All welcome. Come if you feel drawn. Like the river, the writing twists and turns, but there’s no way it can go wrong. Bring a notebook and pen and dress for weather.

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users – access via ramp.

Expo 2025 with Out of the Blueprint
2025-10-24 12:00 - 16:00 | Print House, 137 High Street, Dumfries, DG1 2BH
2025 marks 10 years of Out of the Blueprint.

Out of the Blueprint is a Leith based riso studio, which supports young artists under 25 through traineeships, residencies, workshops, commissions and print projects.

In the summer of 2025, the studio celebrated it’s 10th birthday with a special three week Print Expo, featuring work from it’s four most recent resident artists, as well as four brand new zine commissions and exclusive T-shirts designed and printed by 8 artists.

Out of the Blueprint is delighted to bring a selection of work down to The Stove’s new riso room, giving people a chance to see and be inspired by some of Scotland’s freshest young print artists working today.

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users including toilets.

Brothers Who Followed The Sun with Commingled
2025-10-24 13:00 - 14:30 | The Wild Goose Festival Hub, Carers Centre, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2PW, United Kingdom
Join Multi-Sensory Storyteller Heather Taylor from Commingled for Brothers Follow the Sun — an interactive sensory storytelling experience inspired by Aboriginal traditions and grounded in themes of migration, belonging, identity, and our deep connection to nature.

In this inclusive, sensory-friendly event, audiences will journey alongside two brothers who follow the path of the sun across a changing landscape. Through live storytelling, songs, sounds, textures, and movement, Heather invites audiences to experience the land as a living presence — shaped by the choices, care, and creativity of those who travel through it.

The story explores migration as a courageous and necessary act of exploration, learning, and transformation.

After the performance, participants will consider their connection to nature and be invited to contribute to a new story map, designing personal journeys filled with landmarks, creatures, songs, and lessons from their imagined travels.

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users – access via ramp.This will be an interactive sensory storytelling session suitable for all ages.

Discover Caerlaverock's Geese with WWT
2025-10-24 13:30 - 15:30 | WWT Caerlaverock, WWT Caerlaverock, Eastpark Farm, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, DG1 4RS, United Kingdom
Join us for a walk with a knowledgeable warden and discover how we manage the reserve for thousands of barnacle and pink-footed geese that migrate here each winter. Learn how to identify different species and experience the sights and sounds of these wonderful wildfowl.

Event InformationThis is an outdoor event.Please wear warm and waterproof clothing and footwear. Binoculars are encouraged, although not required.Recommended for ages 10+.Event price included in admission.

Accessibility InformationFlat terrain over concrete and hardcore paths. Around 1 mile of walking.

Beach Treasures: Discover, Explore & Create! with Solway Firth Partnership
2025-10-24 14:00 - 15:00 | The Wild Goose Festival Hub, Carers Centre, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2PW, United Kingdom
Join Solway Firth Partnership in the hub for a fun and informative session that invites you to take a closer look at the fascinating objects found on our local beaches—from natural wonders to curious man-made items. Discover the fascinating world of the Solway’s beaches without getting your feet sandy.

What’s Inside:

Explore a hands on display of plants, animals, and washed-up objects from the Solway shoreline

Learn about the impact of marine litter and celebrate the work of our fantastic beach cleaning groups

Find out how you can help protect our beaches and wildlife

Create Your Own Postcard Art! Get inspired by the coast and design your own postcard masterpiece using natural textures, beach-themed imagery, and your imagination. All materials provided—just bring your creativity!

Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about our coast. Come along and discover some of the treasures of the Solway!

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users – access via ramp.

Wild Goose Ceilidh with CatStrand
2025-10-24 19:00 - 23:00 | New Galloway Town Hall, High Street, New Galloway, Castle Douglas, DG7 3RL
Wild Goose Ceilidh promises to be a memorable night. Music provided by Shore Road, with local poets and musicians providing even more delightful entertainment. A two course supper is also included in the ticket price. BYOB and come and dance the night away to celebrate the popular Wild Goose Festival with foot tapping music, and songs and Poetry inspired by our beautiful region to enjoy a a rollicking good time, dance and supper with friends and family alike.

Event InformationAll ages welcome. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users including toilets, disabled parking spaces available, hearing loop in place.

From £20 Booking Required

Birdwatching Breakfast with WWT
2025-10-25 08:00 - 10:00 | The Boathouse, Quayside,, Glencaple, Dumfries, DG1 4RE, United Kingdom
Enjoy breakfast at the Boathouse in Glencaple and learn about the geese of the Solway Firth with experts from WWT Caerlaverock and RSPB Mersehead. Watch as the geese use the river to navigate to their feeding grounds whilst you start the day.

Event InformationWhilst the event is free, you will have to pay for your chosen breakfastEvent is recommended for children 10+Children must be accompanied by an adultBook your place by contacting The Boathouse Glencaple

Accessibility InformationWheelchair accessible throughout

From £7.25 Booking Required

Wild Goose Chase with Crichton Parkrun
2025-10-25 09:15 - 11:00 | The Crichton, Memorial Church, Bankend Road, Dumfries, DG1 4UQ
Join the flock on the wild goose chase at The Crichton. Take flight with the welcoming community on the fun, and friendly weekly 5k.

Event InformationAll ages and abilities welcome.Register before your first Parkrun.Event sets off from The Crichton Memorial Church.

Walk Up Wardlaw with WWT
2025-10-25 09:30 - 12:30 | WWT Caerlaverock, WWT Caerlaverock, Eastpark Farm, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, DG1 4RS, United Kingdom
Join WWT Caerlaverock staff for a 6 mile walk up Wardlaw Hill and through the Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve to discover more about the migrating barnacle and pink-footed geese.

This is a circular route that will begin and end at WWT Caerlaverock.

Event InformationThis is an outdoor event.Please wear warm and waterproof clothing and footwear. Binoculars are encouraged, although not required.Meeting point is WWT car park.Recommended for aged 10+.

Accessibility InformationA 6 mile walk over mixed terrain. There will be opportunities to stop along the way, however the path is not suitable for those of limited mobility or in wheelchairs.

Optics Demonstration with WWT
2025-10-25 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-10-26 10:00 - 16:00 | WWT Caerlaverock, WWT Caerlaverock, Eastpark Farm, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, DG1 4RS, United Kingdom
Interested in a new pair of binoculars or a telescope? Have questions for the experts?

Optics greatly enhance your experience of watching geese and other birds, helping you see their stunning plumage and observe their fascinating behaviour.

Experts from Swarovski and Viking are visiting WWT Caerlaverock to demonstrate and sell a range of optics.​Take this opportunity to try them out and get all your questions answered.

Event InformationDrop-in at anytime throughout the day

Accessibility InformationStep free access to the Visitor Centre

Birding for Brents with GSA Biosphere, British Trust for Ornithology and Scottish Ornithologists Club
2025-10-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Bunker Snack Bar Carpark by A77, Stranraer, DG9 8QJ
Join us at Loch Ryan to see the wonderful range of bird species which migrate there for the winter. We will be looking at brent geese, ducks, swans, waders and seabirds. Experts including staff from BTO, SOC and Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, will help identify these fascinating geese and provide interesting information about their ecology and migration.

Loch Ryan is a fantastic birding spot with a wintering population of light-bellied brent geese. These fascinating birds migrate 5,000km from Canada each year to spend the winter on our coastline. Most of the population winter in Ireland, but we have a small population on the coasts of West Galloway where they feed on eel grass during the winter. Other birds migrating here for the winter include eider ducks, long tailed ducks, common scoters, wigeon, teal, red throated divers and Slavonian grebes. Waders are also in abundance with curlews, golden plover, grey plover, knot and dunlin present. We will use telescopes and binoculars to find and identify the birds. Experts will be present to help with identification and to provide further information about ecology and migration. This event is held in partnership with the GSA Biosphere, British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and Scottish Ornithologists Club (SOC). Please bring lunch, warm and waterproof clothing, suitable footwear, binoculars and telescopes if you have them.

Event InformationThis is an outdoor event.All ages welcome. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility InformationThe outdoor walk on the beach is not suitable for wheelchairs, however the birds can be observed from the car park.

Nature on the Nith with RSPB
2025-10-25 11:00 - 13:00 | The Wild Goose Festival Hub, Carers Centre, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2PW, United Kingdom
Join us on one of our walks along the river to explore our local wildlife!

A circular walk between Devorgilla Bridge and Troqueer Cycle Bridge, starting upriver toward and then crossing Devorgilla (The Auld) Bridge, before turning downriver towards Mill Green and Rosefield Mill, then over Troqueer Cycle Bridge and returning via Dock Park and Dock Head.

Event InformationThis is an outdoor event.Suitable for all ages (not early years). Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility InformationUtilising visual/audial senses.

Honk! Honk! Honk! In the Hub!
2025-10-25 11:30 - 15:00 | The Wild Goose Festival Hub, Carers Centre, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2PW, United Kingdom
Paragon Music is back!

Join us for an inclusive, drop-in music workshop where we blend acoustic instruments with recorded foraged sounds from our local natural environment.

No experience needed – just bring your curiosity and creativity!

Everyone is welcome.

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users – access via ramp.

Whisky Tasting with Glengoyne Distillery & WWT
2025-10-25 12:00 - 16:00 | WWT Caerlaverock, WWT Caerlaverock, Eastpark Farm, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, DG1 4RS, United Kingdom
Experts from Glengyone Distillery will talk you through their range of whiskies while you sample them in the comfort of our visitor centre. Try before you buy from the range in our shop!

Event InformationOver 18’s only.Drop in during event times.

Accessibility InformationStep free access to visitor centre.

Pumpkin Patch with Annan Harbour Action Group
2025-10-25 12:00 - 16:00 | Annan Harbour, Port Street, Annan, DG12 6BT
Come pick your perfect pumpkin straight from our specially prepared harbour patch. Children can get creative with a choice of nature-inspired crafts, enjoy face painting that transforms them into woodland creatures, pumpkins, or anything their imagination dreams up, and savour the simple pleasure of marshmallow toasting over the fire, adding to the cosy seasonal atmosphere.

Capture beautiful memories at our autumn photo zone, and don’t forget to dress up – whether in Halloween costumes or your best autumn outfits.

Local vendors will provide hot drinks and sweet treats, offering the perfect chance to relax and enjoy the vibrant community spirit.

By holding this event, we’re shining a light on the importance of shared natural spaces, bringing people together to celebrate place, season, and biodiversity. It’s an afternoon that blends fun with a deeper connection to our environment, right at the heart of Annan.

Come along, pick a pumpkin, explore the harbour, and enjoy this unique family day as we mark the turning of the seasons together.

Accessibility InformationThe Pumpkin Patch and marshmallow toasting areas are fully accessible. Craft activities are held indoors and do involve stairs, but assistance is available to help anyone who needs support. If you need any help, please contact the Annan Harbour Action Group at 01461 758210 or ahagharbourofficer@gmail.com

Nature on the Nith with RSPB
2025-10-25 14:00 - 15:00 | The Wild Goose Festival Hub, Carers Centre, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, DG1 2PW, United Kingdom
Join us on one of our walks along the river to explore our local wildlife!

This will be a short walk along river (from Nith Street to Greensands and back) in search of wildlife that makes this place their home or uses the river to commute ormigrate. Looking for water birds like Goosander, Mallard, Grey Heron or Kingfisher. Who knows, maybe even Otter or a goose or two too!

Event InformationThis is an outdoor event.Suitable for all ages (not early years). Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility InformationWheelchair accessible, utilising visual/audial senses.

Dawn Flight with WWT
2025-10-26 06:00 - 08:00 | WWT Caerlaverock, WWT Caerlaverock, Eastpark Farm, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, DG1 4RS, United Kingdom
Join the wardens out on the merse when we open early to watch the geese flying against the dawn sky as the sun comes up.​ These beautiful birds have spent the night out on the Solway mudflats and fly in to feed on the fields during the day.

Event InformationThis is an outdoor event.Please wear warm and waterproof clothing and footwear. Binoculars and a torch are encouraged, although not required.Recommended for aged 10+. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility InformationFlat terrain over concrete and hardcore paths.Around 1 mile of walking.

From £15 Booking Required

The Swan Woman with Scottish International Storytelling Festival
2025-10-29 19:00 - 21:00 | The Stove Cafe, 100 High Street, Dumfries, Scotland, DG1 2BJ, United Kingdom
Come gather around the fire of inspiration as Finnish storyteller Anna-Maria Toivonen and Scottish Claire Hewitt weave bird lore, songs and stories from their traditions around a magical transformation tale from the North.

There was a time when we seven swan sisters flew the starry skies. There was a time we would take off our white feathered cloaks and by the soft light of the full moon dance until dawn broke.Event InformationThis event is recommended for 12+.All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility InformationFully accessible for wheelchair users including toilets, disabled parking spaces available, hearing loop in place.

Halloween Ceilidh
2025-10-31 19:00 - 23:00 | Loreburn Hall, Newall Terrace, Dumfries, Scotland, DG1 2HP, United Kingdom
The Stove & Dumfries Museums presents a spellbinding evening of music, mischief, and monstrous moves, celebrating the grand finale of the Wild Goose Festival 2025! Expect fancy dress, dancing, games, and plenty of goosebumps (the fun kind).

Live MusicZORFresh from a summer of festival magic at Kelburn and Knockengorroch, ZOR will conjure up their wild, genre-defying Gypsy-fusion to keep your bones rattling late into the night.

Sharny Beats Dance BandPrepare for a ceilidh like no other, with high-energy, foot-stomping tunes guaranteed to wake the dead and get everyone on the floor!

Frights, Fun & FestivitiesFancy Dress Contest: Think spooky, kooky, or downright eerie… the cobwebs are IN this year!

Spooky Games & Raffles: Surprises await at every corner.

Neep Carving Competition: Bring your creepiest carved neep for the Sharny gang to judge – may the eeriest root win.

Event InformationAll ages welcome! From little ghouls to grown-up goblins, everyone’s invited to dance, laugh, and revel in this frightfully fun finale.Children must be accompanied by an adultAccessibility InformationWheelchair accessible, parking nearby

Halloween Bat Walk with Loch Ken Trust & Castle Douglas Development Forum
2025-11-01 16:30 - 19:00 | The Crannog, Lochside Park, Castle Douglas, DG7 1EZ
Come along to The Crannog, next to beautiful Carlingwark Loch for a spooky kids Halloween Bat Walk, with storytelling and crafts.

4:30pm Bat Talk5pm Games and Crafts6pm Bat Walk6:30pm SunsetBack for hot chocolates

Event InformationThis is an outdoor event.Children to be accompanied by an adult.Price includes hot chocolate.To book email lindsay@lochken.org.uk.

From £2.50 Booking Required

EMAIL lindsay@lochken.org.uk TO BOOK

Journey With the Wild Geese
2026-04-01 08:00 - 2026-05-17 17:00
This April, the Wild Goose Festival and Dumfries and Galloway move together; alongside 40,000 barnacle geese taking off on their extraordinary journey. Collectively, an 80,000,000 mile effort from the Solway, in south-west Scotland, to Svalbard, north of the Arctic Circle. Moving in tandem, side by side, mile by mile, we’ll strive to walk, wheel, scoot and cycle the distance – travelling through nature and into spring.

To sign up to the challenge tap this link:https://link.stridekick.com/join?groupCode=XDMGRK6ZZW

OR

Open the Stridekick app → Tap Challenges → Tap the search icon → Enter the challenge code:XDMGRK6ZZW

Adult Goose information Sheets (1)Download
