Upon arrival to the Wickerman festival I was in anticipation of the unreliable weather ahead, but as we began to drive down the sun began to appear over the hills of Dumfries and Galloway. Once at the campsite the atmosphere began to bubble with the sound of families setting up camp and the smell of barbecues in the surprising sun. As the crowds appeared everyone began to head down to the festival, and with the sound of the first cans of beer opening the music began. The first night was spent pretty much looking around and getting a feel for the surroundings. I was completely fascinated by the trader’s stalls, I never expected to go to a music festival and find so many unique and inspiring stalls. The expression of colour, fabric and jewellery was a delight for the eyes against the aromas of incense sticks. The eclectic sense of style was really refreshing but regarding my own style I began to be so thankful for my willies, while trekking across the fields.
As Friday morning began with some barbequed beans and noodles which were amazing with a can of cider first thing in the morning. We chose to camp in the quiet camping which overlooked the whole festival and where the Wickerman could be seen standing tall. It was great to be able to take in the festival from a distance and at your own pace, in a campsite where I felt at ease with my surroundings. As a plane flew over the festival with a banger stating “Pretty Lady- Will you marry me?” the whole festival cheered and a sense of united joy brightened up everyone’s day.
With the band CAST setting a lovely tone over the crowd with their song ‘Walk Away’, followed by the Levellers classic ‘What A Beautiful Day’ added to the summer euphoria. As I stood awaiting the Scissor Sisters everybody in the crowd was on good form. As soon as they burst on the stage the whole festival was amazed. They were completely magical to watch as they danced around the dance floor in a full array of colours. It was one of the most surreal moments as they danced right in front of me, it really could not get any better. I then strolled over to the Reggie tent which was a total contrast and had a down to earth international vibe.
Saturday was the hottest morning yet, and by this time our food supplies had ran dry. So this gave us an excuse to try out some of the food vendors, Katie’s Kitchen which was Thai cuisine was great to keep us going for the day. I enjoyed some local bands such as Finding Albert and in the Solus tent, Heavy metal band Grant me Revenge showed an alternative side to the festival as Wickerman’s heaviest band, which highlighted the great abundance of diversity, which was ultimately exciting and refreshing. With thirty minutes between each act we could explore the festival well and get a good spot for the next act.
Kassidy did Scotland proud and kicked of a night of talent. I had been looking forward to Newton Faulkner all day and he did not disappoint. I was amazed to see one man and a guitar completely hypnotise the crowd in such an effortless way. Hearing him live reignited my appreciation for his music, as he encouraged crowd participation and got everyone involved. Later followed by Texas sharing some classic hits everyone could sing along to and this was a great atmosphere heading to the burning of the Wickerman. The ending was one to remember as everyone waited for the blaze to begin. The Olympia theme of the festival came to light and a glow formed from the Olympic torch and across the crowd, as everyone’s faces glimmered in the darkness. I could not help but think it may be the end but it won’t be my last, see you next year Wickerman Festival!
Emma Kerr
Published on 26 July 2012 by Ben Robinson
