Kelburn Garden Party transforms the sprawling grounds of Kelburn Castle into a magical wonderland each summer. Nestled on Scotland’s west coast near the town of Largs, this boutique festival spans five days of music, art and natural beauty. The centerpiece is an ancient castle with giant, colourful graffiti artwork across its walls (a legendary “graffiti castle”) that instantly tells you this isn’t an ordinary festival. From the moment you arrive, Kelburn’s friendly vibe welcomes you: dance to live bands in shaded glades, follow glowing lantern-lit paths through the woods, or simply relax on a sun-warmed stone bench and watch the world go by. With music drifting through meadows and laughter echoing off castle walls, Kelburn Garden Party feels like stepping into a vibrant fairy-tale.
The festival offers something for every taste and age. Multiple outdoor stages host an eclectic mix of music: funky disco nights, soulful folk troubadours, worldbeat and global rhythms, heady reggae and dub sets, and electrifying DJ dance floors. One moment you might be grooving under the trees to live jazz or brass band funk, and the next discovering a blissful ambient set in a secluded garden. Around the site, colourful art installations and giant sculptures appear on every corner, and roaming performers (from stilt-walkers and fire-dancers to juggling clowns) turn ordinary paths into parades. Workshops and interactive activities invite you to get creative too: try your hand at drum circles, circus skills or collaborative murals, or join a sunrise yoga class to start the day. Little ones are not forgotten: the dedicated kids’ area offers storytelling, crafts and gentle music so families can relax knowing there is fun for all ages.
Kelburn Garden Party is at home among sea and hills. The castle estate overlooks the beautiful Firth of Clyde, with views out to winding coastal islands. Rolling grass fields, whispering pine forests and even a small loch create a patchwork of wild places to explore between sets. Slip away for a woodland wander or lie in the sun at the top of a hill and watch the clouds drift over the sea. The castle gardens themselves are full of surprises – trickling streams, swings hung from ancient oaks, and hidden chill-out spots perfect for an afternoon nap or acoustic jam session. And if you want a change of scenery, the seaside town of Largs is only a short drive or ferry ride away, known for its friendly vibe, colourful shops and Scotland’s favourite ice cream at Nardini’s. The blend of dramatic nature and artistic wonder makes Kelburn Garden Party a truly unique place to celebrate summer.
What truly sets Kelburn Garden Party apart is the warm, welcoming community. There are no separating stage barriers at this festival – dances and singalongs often draw everyone together. Run by a passionate independent team, the festival’s ethos is all about sharing creativity, not charging through crowds. Campfires, DIY art and impromptu street parades are the norm, and you’ll frequently find yourself chatting to musicians over breakfast or swapping campsite recipes with new friends. Children laugh together in sandpits as grandparents dance to drums under starlight – it is that mix of families, friends and free spirits that gives this festival its special heart. Most visitors say they leave Kelburn feeling refreshed, inspired and already planning to come back next year.
This year’s Kelburn Garden Party runs from Thursday 2nd July through Monday 6th July 2026. Grab your friends and join us for a midsummer adventure. Camping is included in each weekend ticket, so it’s the perfect chance to unwind under the stars. Whether you’ve danced here before or you are new to the garden party, come ready to make memories. Pack a tent, your curiosity and a smile, and get ready to experience Kelburn’s magical mix of music, art and nature all in one place. We can’t wait to welcome you back to Kelburn Castle!
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