The Dunstaffnage Festival, which takes place the 19th & 20th July, is one with strong independent credentials and a grass roots feel, but it’s not a newcomer to the crowded festival scene by any means.
Stating as as a birthday party in 1992, the festival has gently grown into a 2 day event. Based 1.5 miles outside Oban, the site is on the shore by Dunstaffnage Castle with stunning views west to the islands of Lismore & Mull. 2 hours from Glasgow, it’s easily accessible via bus.
This year it boasts a mix of visiting acts such as Pama International and the more local ones which comproise the bulk of the lineup, such as Isosceles, popup, Miss the Occupier, Das Contras, Yellow Bentines and Theatre Fall.
A variety of stages and tents see Blue Flint and Miyagi on the Roots Stage, while the Concrete Campfire Tent has the likes of The Fortunate Sons, Ross Clark, Rags & Feathers, Rick Redbeard, Le Reno Amps, The Second Hand Marching Band and Ally Kerr.
And in the Organic Beats Tent, there’s plenty of top DJ names including El Rancho Picante and Pretty Ugly.
We have tickets for this musical extravaganza to be won - answer the question “what year did Dunstaffnage first take place?” and we’ll make the draw. Oh, include your address and email as with the festival being a week away we may need to contact you at short notice!
For the unlucky non-winners, it’s still a bargain - a weekend ticket is 60, day tickets are £35 and for a family, £150 for the weekend (though 12 and unders go free). There’s also free camping for all!
More at www.dmfoban.co.uk and www.myspace.com/dunstaffnage
//Stuart McHugh