Paisley town centre will host an all-day entertainment bonanza in commemoration of one of the world's most historic workers' festivals Sma' Shot Day.
This annual celebration on July 6 marks a significant triumph by the town's 19th-century weavers in an industrial conflict against their employers.
A highlight of this year's festivities will be the return of the much-loved parade and the Burning of the Cork, along with an array of live performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities.
The parade, departing from Brodie Park at 12pm, will be led by the unmistakable rhythm of the Charleston Drum.
In a colourful procession through the town centre, the parade will conclude at Abbey Close.
Coordinators from Bridgeman Arts and several community groups, performers, and musicians have worked together to design the parade which will feature performers and characters reminiscent of Paisley Fair during the time of the historic confrontation.
Upon reaching Abbey Close and Bridge Street, attendees can expect to witness the dramatic Burning of the Cork - a pinnacle of the Sma' Shot Day celebrations.
A line-up of performers including PACE Youth Theatre, RockUs choir, cover band Proposal, Sharon Martin, Evelyn Laurie, and Caitlin Bonner Dance Company are all set to entertain from the main stage.
The Youth Theatre will be performing a re-enactment of the Paisley weavers' struggle for payment of the Sma' Shot.
The event will be filled with free children's activities, such as face painting, inflatables, and arts and crafts.
A sports day hosted by Furry Murry’s Adventure Playground, along with OneRen’s Skoobmobile, is also scheduled, promising a range of fun games and summer reading for young guests.
In addition to the festivities at Abbey Close and Bridge Street, live music is on the agenda at The Bungalow venue.
The late afternoon will showcase the popular Poetry Slam, while visitors can also explore the Brown Lane Makers’ Market, hosted by Restoration and Creation on Browns Lane from 12pm.
The historic Sma’ Shot Cottages will be open for tours, enabling visitors to take a metaphorical trip back to two significant periods of Paisley's rich textile history.
The Art Department will also host the Project Ability textile exhibition 'Press, Print, Repeat' from 10am.
Organised by Renfrewshire Council, Sma' Shot Day is a core part of the local major events programme aimed at drawing thousands of visitors every year.
Pauline Allan, Renfrewshire Council Events Manager, said: “Sma’ Shot Day is an important day for Renfrewshire where we come together and celebrate our town’s history.
“There’s so much for people to enjoy this year and we can’t wait to welcome the community for a fantastic day in Paisley Town Centre.”
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