The Johnstone Fire Engine Rally will return on Saturday 15th August, bringing a parade of historic fire engines, live entertainment and family activities to Houstoun Square.
The event will begin with a parade from 11am until 12pm. Historic fire engines will leave from outside Johnstone Fire Station at 11am before travelling through the town centre to Houstoun Square, where they will be on display.
From 12pm until 4pm, visitors will be able to see a collection of historic fire engines, meet the crews and learn about the history of firefighting. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will also give live fire safety demonstrations and offer practical advice on keeping homes and families safe.
Free family activities will run throughout the afternoon, including face painting for children and walkabout characters.
An indoor market, organised by the Johnstone Business Consortium, will also take place from 12pm until 4pm. Fourteen local traders will be selling items including confectionery, books and jewellery, alongside fundraising tombolas.
The main stage, hosted by Johnstone Sound, will feature entertainment throughout the afternoon. The programme includes:
- Houston Pipe Band – 12pm to 12.15pm
- Lewis McVey – 12.30pm to 1pm
- Zoe Tait “The Ladybug” – 1.30pm to 2pm
- Dream Believe Academy – 2.30pm to 3pm
- John Rush – 3.30pm to 4pm
Johnstone railway station is around a five-minute walk from Houstoun Square and McGill’s Buses serve the town centre. Free parking will be available outside Johnstone Town Hall, while details of any road or car park closures will be announced closer to the event.
The event will also include accessibility measures. An AccessoLoo vehicle, a quiet space tent and Johnstone Town Hall will be available for public use. The event site and parade route are described as predominantly flat with multiple viewing points.