On Saturday 30 November, cultural organisations across Scotland will take part in the global movement of Fair Saturday, a multi-arts celebration with the aim of promoting social inclusion, equality and compassion. Originating in the Spanish city of Bilbao in 2015, Fair Saturday takes place on the last Saturday of November every year – a direct rebuttal to the rampant consumerism of Black Friday, which occurs the day before.

Fair Saturday sees artists and cultural bodies around the world stage performances, workshops, events and more in support of a social cause of their choosing. Last year, over 10,000 artists hosted 1,200 shows across over 180 cities, raising over one million euros towards charitable causes.

2018 also marked the year that Scotland became the first nation to sign up to the movement, hosting the inaugural St Andrew's Fair Saturday in partnership between the Scottish Government and BEMIS. The event saw an immense groundswell of people in communities across Scotland coming together to raise money for projects they felt passionate about, from local hospices and music schools to refugee support organisations.

St Andrew's Fair Saturday 2019 promises to be even bigger, more inclusive and dynamic than the year before, with BEMIS' Winter Festivals, the Scottish Storytelling Centre, the Queen's Hall, the Scottish Poetry Library and Rosslyn Chapel amongst the growing programme of participants.

But you don't have to be an established organisation or an renowned artist to do your bit and help bring about a better, fairer world. So grab a few pals, or strike out on your own; take to the stage, or even just the back of a pub. Anyone can take part – any event, big or small, can make a difference.

How to Participate:

1. Save the date and plan an event for St Andrew's Fair Saturday.
2. Identify a social project to support and decide how.
3. Register at standrews.fairsaturday.org and include all the details of your event.
4. Become a leader in the #StAndrewsFairSaturday movement.

If you need any assistance, contact [email protected] for more information.

If you're interested in joining the global movement, visit standrews.fairsaturday.org and register your event as part of St Andrew's Fair Saturday, or find an event to support during the festival.