Festival
Partners

Annan Harbour Action Group

Annan Harbour Action Group is a community-driven charity dedicated to restoring and revitalising Annan’s historic harbour. Through heritage conservation, environmental projects, and cultural events, the group is breathing new life into the area while celebrating its maritime past. Working closely with residents, volunteers, and partners, they aim to create a vibrant hub for leisure, learning, and sustainable tourism. Their work connects people with the town’s waterfront, encouraging pride in place and offering opportunities for everyone to get involved.

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Arts D&G

Arts D&G is a rural performing arts development organisation in Dumfries & Galloway, dedicated to creating a sustainable, accessible, and inspiring future for the performing arts. Their region-wide, multi-arts programmes connect local and national artists with communities, fostering engagement, wellbeing, and enjoyment through creative excellence. Guided by values of originality, inclusion, fairness, sustainability, and legacy, Arts D&G partners with artists and venues to innovate, represent diverse communities, and deliver meaningful cultural experiences across generations.

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British Trust Ornithology (BTO)

The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) is a UK charity that focuses on understanding birds and, in particular, how and why bird populations are changing. Our vision is of a world where people are inspired by birds and informed by science.

We strive to achieve this vision by harnessing the skills and passion of thousands of volunteers to advance our understanding of ornithology, in particular, through our bird surveys and schemes. We combine the resulting scientific outputs with interesting stories and powerful images to engage more people in this work and to inspire people to take action. Working in partnership with volunteers we have been monitoring the UK’s birds since 1933 and have extended our coverage to include other wildlife too.

BTO Scotland are really pleased to help support the WGF with representation form Staff, regional representatives and member volunteers.

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CatStrand

Located in the heart of New Galloway, CatStrand is an award-winning arts and community centre offering a vibrant year-round programme of music, theatre, film, exhibitions, and workshops. It’s a welcoming space where creativity flourishes, local talent is celebrated, and audiences can experience high-quality arts in a rural setting. With a strong focus on accessibility and community involvement, CatStrand plays a vital role in the cultural life of Dumfries & Galloway, providing opportunities for people of all ages to participate and connect.

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Climate Kitchen

Climate Kitchen is a creative community project using food as a catalyst for climate action. Through interactive workshops, shared meals, and storytelling, it brings people together to explore sustainable living, local growing, and the environmental impact of what we eat. The project creates a welcoming, solutions-focused space where conversations about climate change feel accessible and empowering. By blending culture, creativity, and cuisine, Climate Kitchen encourages practical steps toward a greener future while fostering stronger, more connected communities in Dumfries & Galloway.

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Creative Stranraer

Creative Stranraer is a charity based in the Southwest of Scotland which focuses on supporting innovation and change in the historic town of Stranraer and the surrounding areas, using art and creativity to engage with the community and as the driver for change.

It uses creativity to connect people with their local environment. It also works in partnership with local and regional organisations to develop new opportunities and projects, encouraging communities to participate in the culture and enterprise that support a new vision for the town.

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Cycling Dumfries

Cycling Dumfries campaigns for better cycling and walking conditions in and around Dumfries, for all people, regardless of age and ability. The group runs regular social rides which are free and open to anyone, on any bike, trike or handcycle. Its vision is for a Dumfries where people are happy to leave the car at home for most everyday journeys, contributing to making the area a healthier, happier and more vibrant place.

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Devils Porridge Museum

The Devil’s Porridge Museum tells the story of HM Factory Gretna, the greatest munitions factory on earth in World War One, where the devil’s porridge (or cordite, an explosive) was mixed. There were 30,000 workers: 12,000 of them were women. Their contribution to the war effort helped women to achieve the vote.

Our state of the art, award-winning, 5 star-rated museum is one of the top things to do in Dumfries and Galloway. In 2023, The Devil’s Porridge Museum was the Winner of the Celebrating Thriving Communities Award at the South of Scotland Thistle Award Regional Finals and in 2022 the museum was the Winner of Best Visitor Attraction Experience in the West of Scotland at the Thistle Award’s Regional Finals.

Please ring to see if booking ahead is necessary during busy periods such as the school holidays.

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Doughlicious

Doughlicious is a warm-hearted community bakery and café that blends fresh, locally sourced food with a passion for people. More than just a place to enjoy delicious bread, pastries, and coffee, it’s a social enterprise offering training, volunteering, and employment opportunities. By nurturing skills and confidence, Doughlicious supports individuals facing barriers to work while strengthening community connections. Its welcoming atmosphere, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to local produce make it a much-loved gathering place in Dumfries & Galloway.

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Dumfries and Galloway Council Arts and Museums Service (East)

Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Arts and Museums Service (East) cares for six museums across Dumfriesshire. This includes Robert Burns House (the last home of the poet), the Robert Burns Centre, the Old Bridge House (the oldest house in Dumfries), Sanquhar Tolbooth Museum and Annan Museum.

Dumfries Museum opened in 1836 as the Observatory and Camera Obscura and it has been welcoming visitors ever since. With diverse collections, exhibitions and events, our museum seek to inspire, intrigue and illuminate.

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Fair Scotland

A collective of Scottish Showpeople, artists & researchers dedicated to promoting the heritage & experiences of Scottish Showpeople, & advocating for the continuation of contemporary fairground culture.

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Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership

The Galloway & Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere is recognised internationally as a world class environment for people and nature. Covering almost 9,800km² of southwest Scotland’s land and sea, its UNESCO Biosphere designation was awarded in 2012 for the region’s fantastic array of landscapes, wildlife, cultural heritage and learning opportunities. The Biosphere ethos is all about connection and collaboration: creating partnerships that help communities, businesses, local people and visitors experience and celebrate sustainable living. Through its rolling programme of projects and initiatives the Galloway & Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Partnership supports and promotes conservation, enterprise, education, and climate awareness – a local organisation striving to achieve global goals.

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The Imaginarium

The Imaginarium is a dynamic creative consultancy rooted in grassroots youth and community development. Founded by DJ McDowall, an experienced practitioner with over 25 years of experience in the field, it offers transformative spaces for imagination, learning, and social change. Through co-creation, active participation, and immersive experiences, The Imaginarium empowers individuals and communities to explore radical new solutions to deep-rooted challenges.

DJ, based in Dumfries and Galloway, brings a wealth of expertise, a strong ethical foundation, and an infectious passion for social justice. Her work spans marginalised and underrepresented groups, with a focus on innovative methodologies and meaningful engagement.

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LIFT D&G

LIFT D&G is based in Northwest Dumfries, we help people from the local area, We are working with Wild Goose Festival this year, we are interested in in making sure people of Lochside are able to participate in as much activity around the town as possible with travel and money barriers being removed. We have worked with WGF for a number of years, and it is always well attended. It is also a great opportunity for people to take part in events that they normally wouldn’t think about.

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Loch Ken Trust

Loch Ken Trust is a charity that has been formed to put the community at the heart of decision-making that affects them.

Our purpose is, “To promote the natural, cultural and recreational assets of the Loch Ken area, for the benefit of the public and to support sustainable local communities”

The Loch Ken Ranger Service was set up in 2021 and is one of the first community-led Ranger Services in Scotland. Our Ranger Service has ensured the areas around Loch Ken are better cared for, with a noticeable reduction in dirty camping and anti-social behaviour.

A top priority for Loch Ken Trust is caring for our environment, restoring and improving our ecosystem, and protecting, cherishing and celebrating our fantastic environment at Loch Ken for the years to come.

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Mostly Ghostly

Mostly Ghostly are passionate storytellers dedicated to exploring the darker, more mysterious side of Dumfries & Galloway’s history. Through guided walks, immersive events, and captivating talks, they bring to life tales of folklore, hauntings, and true-life intrigue. Their work seamlessly blends historical research with theatrical storytelling, offering audiences an unforgettable experience that celebrates the region’s heritage in a fresh and imaginative way. Whether uncovering hidden histories or delving into supernatural legends, Mostly Ghostly invites you to see the familiar in a whole new light.

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NatureScot

NatureScot is Scotland’s nature agency, working to improve our natural environment in Scotland and to inspire everyone to care more about it, so that all nature in Scotland – our key habitats and landscapes, all our green space and our native species – is maintained, enhanced and brings us benefits.

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Nith Life

Nith Life is a community-led environmental initiative dedicated to celebrating and protecting the River Nith and its surrounding habitats. Through creative projects, citizen science, and educational activities, it inspires people of all ages to connect with their local environment. The initiative highlights the river’s ecological importance, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities, encouraging sustainable stewardship for the future. By bringing together artists, scientists, and residents, Nith Life nurtures a deeper appreciation of nature’s role in community wellbeing across Dumfries & Galloway.

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Parkrun

Parkrun is a free, volunteer-led, weekly 5 km community event held every Saturday—open to walkers, joggers, runners, volunteers, and spectators of all ages and abilities. Founded in 2004 with just 13 participants, it has grown into a global movement rooted in inclusion, wellbeing, and simplicity (“free, for everyone, forever”). In Dumfries & Galloway, parkruns take place every Saturday at The Crichton in Dumfries, Carlingwark Loch in Castle Douglas, and Agnew Park in Stranraer, with junior events each Sunday at Dock Park.

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RSPB Scotland

Mersehead Reserve

The RSPB is dedicated to creating a world richer in nature. We use our expertise in birds and nature to provide evidence-based solutions to the nature and climate emergency, helping people live well in harmony with nature. We work with our partners to keep common species common, recover threatened species, protect and restore special places and inspire and enable everyone to act for nature. We are the UK partner of BirdLife International, operating in the four countries of the UK, the Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories. We also work globally, wherever our shared nature goes or the need exists.

We are pleased to take part in the Wild Goose Festival, being dedicated to conservation and protection of all nature, including wintering waterfowl like Svalbard barnacle geese and other species that visit Dumfries & Galloway.

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Scottish International Storytelling Festival

The Scottish International Storytelling Festival, established in 1989, is the world’s largest celebration of storytelling, held annually in October across Edinburgh and throughout Scotland. Anchored at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the Royal Mile and hosted in iconic venues like the Royal Botanic Garden and the National Library, it showcases both traditional and contemporary storytellers from Scotland and beyond. Through performances, workshops, family events, and a touring “Go Local” strand, it champions oral traditions, cultural inclusion, creativity, and community connection.

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Scottish Ornithologist Club

The Scottish Ornithologists’ Club (SOC) exists to promote the study, enjoyment and conservation of wild birds and their habitats across Scotland. On the face of it, the SOC is a birdwatching club with 15 local branches across the country. We bring together like-minded individuals with a passion for birds, nature and conservation, through a programme of talks, outings, conferences and via the Club’s quarterly members’ journal, Scottish Birds. We are heavily dependent on keen volunteers and the support of our membership.

On the other hand, we’re a network of volunteers across Scotland, gathering vital, impartial information about our country’s wild birds. The SOC acts as the umbrella organisation for bird recording in Scotland, managing the network of recording birds within the country. The database of information Local Recorders collect is an extremely important archive of local bird information – a critical tool for their future conservation.

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Sculpture Placement Group

The Sculptural Placement Group champions the role of contemporary sculpture in enriching public spaces. Working with artists, communities, and partner organisations, they create opportunities for sculpture to be seen, experienced, and discussed in diverse environments. Their projects bring art beyond traditional gallery settings, encouraging dialogue and fresh perspectives. In Dumfries & Galloway, they collaborate with local initiatives to place thought-provoking works that enhance landscapes, spark curiosity, and invite audiences to engage with art in everyday surroundings.

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Solway Firth Partnership

Solway Firth Partnership is an independent charity that works to support a vibrant and sustainable local economy while respecting, protecting and celebrating the distinctive character, heritage and natural features of our marine and coastal area. We do this by working on both sides of the Solway Firth, aiming to engage with as many people as possible and encourage positive action to shape the future of the area.

The inner Solway is a distinctive place with extensive saltmarsh, sand and mudflats that are protected by multiple national and international conservation designations. Some of these designations are concerned with special landscapes while others focus on nature conservation. Perhaps the most iconic wildlife species is the barnacle goose, whose entire Svalbard population migrates to the Solway to escape the hard winters in the Arctic Ocean.

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Species on the Edge

Species on the Edge is a partnership of NatureScot and seven nature conservation charities, all dedicated to improving the fortunes of 37 priority species found along Scotland’s coast and islands. The National Heritage Lottery Funded project will be delivering a four year programme of work to tackle the impacts of environmental change on wildlife, to benefit both nature and people.

The project is working across seven landscape-scale areas and the Solway is one of these regions. Focus species on the Solway include Greenland White-fronted Geese, Natterjack Toads and Brown Argus Butterflies. Project action on the Solway will include survey and collation of conservation data to provide a better understanding of the issues; working with communities to identify priorities and co-produce local plans; and providing new volunteering and supporting opportunities for a range of participants. Furthermore, by working with and through communities, local initiatives, and land managers, we will create opportunities for people to get involved in efforts to save these species for future generations.

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St. Michael’s Church

St. Michael’s is the oldest and most historic church in Dumfries, its history going back 1000 years and more.

The present church is the third Christian church on the site and was built in the mid 18th century whilst incorporating the medieval columns seen today. It is filled with beauty and historical significance. Admire our extraordinary stained glass windows. Learn about the Covenanters, Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Norwegian connection, Henry Willis organ builders and congregation member and Scottish bard, Robert Burns. The Churchyard includes the mausoleum of Robert Burns, who worshipped here alongside his wife Jean Armour and their family. Please allow time to walk through the Graveyard which is not only a place of beauty and repose, it is a wonderful reference to Scottish history through the centuries. Private graveyard tours are now available by arrangement, the lives of our dreamless sleepers are deeply moving and informative.

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Write!

Write! is a vibrant writers’ network that supports creativity, collaboration, and skill-sharing among emerging and established authors in Dumfries & Galloway. Through workshops, events, and peer feedback, it offers a supportive environment where members can develop their craft and explore new ideas. The group champions diverse voices and storytelling forms, from poetry to prose and beyond. By fostering connections and promoting local writing talent, Write! enriches the region’s literary scene and inspires a culture of creativity and expression.