Born
out of a desire to recreate the counter culture vibe of festivals from
a bygone era, the Wickerman is fast becoming a haven for those festi
goers who are disillusioned with the blandness and outright
commercialism of larger events hijacked by the corporate behemoths.
Established
since 2002, the festival takes place on 120 acres of prime Galloway
grazing land at East Kirkcarswell Farm, Dundrennan. The festival is
headed up by the infectiously enthusiastic landowner Jamie Gilroy. He
feels that 'although on a smaller scale to Glastonbury or T in the
Park, the Wickerman seems to have the right formula which is a relaxed,
family friendly event with the accent on eclectic tastes in music'. He
also adds 'We have a broad fan base who for a couple of days can enjoy
the freedom of wide open spaces away from the urban sprawl and daily
grind'.
The
festival features two main stages, a world music and funk tent, eden
zone, a classic Jamaican reggae sound system, acoustic village, scooter
tent, children’s area, workshops, beer tent, crafts, camping and, of
course, not forgetting a 30 foot Wickerman who is sacrificed to the
festival gods on the Saturday night.
The aptly named Solway Coast will experience its seventh frolicky Wickerman happening on the 25th and 26th July 2008.From
cheeky publicity seeking upstart to hardy festival perennial, the
Wickerman has established its roots for continued organic growth. Wickerman
'08 will once again see a parade of fops, spivs, dandies, babes, dudes,
swells, cats and kids dressed in their jauntiest threads, melting
together to create a festival vibe which is second to none. Wickerman
debutantes who have taken the decision to sashay down the festival road
less travelled can expect sporadic mirth and frivolity alongside
sustained barrages of contentment.
Visit the Festival web site here: www.thewickermanfestival.co.uk 
