Making Waves: Glasgow River Festival

Watch out for a swashbuckling pirate stilt walker!

Feature by Sam Saward | 15 Jul 2006

The River Festival, a Glasgow City Council initiative, provides two days of high-quality entertainment, celebrating the past, present and future of Glasgow's historic waterfront, which saw the Comet, the world's first commercial steamship, launched in 1812. By the 1940s, the river Clyde was buzzing with pleasure boats and cargo ships alike, managing to secure its place as the powerhouse of Scotland and the birthplace of a number of historic ships.

This year's festival is set to be a sure hit for all the kiddies. Get ready for some bubble trouble with a bubble fun shop taking place on Saturday 12.30-2.30 p.m. and on Sunday from 3.30 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Monkey's Fist will be roaming the quayside singing a host of traditional sea shanties and songsā€¦ yo ho ho and a barrel of fun! Don't forget to watch out for a swashbuckling pirate stilt walker and two larger than life Seagulls who are set to add some friendly chaos to the weekend!

On-water, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. The Glasgow River Festival Zapcat Grand Prix will see catamarans racing along the River Clyde past Bells Bridge at speeds of up to 50mph. Last year's festival saw thousands of visitors turn out to watch the adrenaline-pumping event and this year's promises to be the most hotly anticipated and exhilarating to date. The British Jet Ski display team, led by Keith Rimmer - five times British Freestyle Champion - are also on hand to liven up the festival with some daring feats. After this, who knows? You may even be ready to take on tasters in powerboating under the supervision of a qualified instructor!











Glasgow River Festival, 15Ð16 July 2006

http://www.glasgowriverfestival.co.uk