Marking harvest time, one of the most important periods in Scotland’s rural calendar, the packed programme of events includes sheepdog trials, stock-judging, displays of farriery, drystane dyking, basket making and wood carving. There will also be craft demonstrations by the Scottish Women’s Rural Institute, stalls with locally produced jam and chocolate and a performance by local theatre company Kybo of The History of East Kilbride.
A special gold tractor dating from 1953 will also be on display. The 1953 McCormick International Super BND is one of 100 that were painted gold by the manufacturer to mark the coronation of Her Majesty The Queen, 60 years ago this year.
Animal lovers attending the event will be able to view the sheep, cattle and pigs on the attraction’s 1950s working farm and there will be the chance to handle a number of more unusual creatures including a meerkat, a skunk, a lizard and a hedgehog, and to see giant rabbits and a llama.
Scotland’s past will be brought to life with living history displays of musketry, archery and falconry and a lotions and potions stand and food display showcasing 16th century cures and cuisine.
Visitors will also be able to explore the Museum’s award-winning visitor centre.
Dorothy O’Neill, acting General Manager at the National Museum of Rural Life, said;
“Our Country Fair is packed with countryside skills, family entertainment and animals galore. A hugely popular event and a great way to learn about country life past and present, it’s a great family day out and we hope as many people as possible will come along.”
The Country Fair at the National Museum of Rural Life takes place on Sunday 1 September from 10am until 5pm. Tickets cost Adult£7.50, Concession £6.50, Child £4 (under 5’s free). Family ticket£22 (2 adults and 2 children). Tickets can be booked online at / or by calling 0300 123 6789.
Note to Editors
National Museums Scotland looks after museum collections of national and international importance and provides loans, partnerships, research and training in Scotland and internationally. Our individual museums are the National Museum of Scotland, the National Museum of Flight, the National Museum of Rural Life and the National War Museum. The National Museums Collection Centre in Edinburgh houses conservation and research facilities as well as collections not currently on display.
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