More than 67,000 people attended six free Renfrewshire Council events this spring and summer. The council says the events generated more than £3 million for the local economy.The programme included Paisley Food & Drink Festival, Renfrew Gala Day, Barshaw Gala Day, Sma’ Shot Day and Renfrew Pipe Band Competition. Johnstone Fire Engine Rally also returned for the first time since 2019.
Research carried out across the events found that 99% of attendees rated their experience positively. Of the residents surveyed, 93% said events in their local town made them feel proud.
The council recorded 4,176 opportunities for people to take part in performances, workshops, sport, volunteering and other activities. Thirty-two volunteers provided more than 145 hours of support.
STAR Project was among the groups that took part in workshops before joining the Sma’ Shot Day parade.
Heather Kay, from STAR Project, said: “The creative workshops before Sma’ Shot Day are always great fun. Our community comes together to make their wands and crowns, bringing creativity, spirit and culture to life before we’ve even set foot in the parade.
“There’s immense pride in walking alongside groups and organisations from across Renfrewshire. People wave from windows and come out of shops, and the streets are lined with people cheering everyone on. It’s fun, inclusive and gives our community a real sense of connection, pride and ownership.
“At STAR Project, as an anti-poverty charity, we also love that the day keeps the story of mill workers alive. It matters that people can celebrate that history together and see themselves as part of Paisley’s story today.”
At Sma’ Shot Day, more than 120 people spoke with Sewing2gether All Nations about its Faces of Belonging Community Arts Programme.
Corrine Watt said: “Being part of Sma’ Shot Day was a wonderful opportunity for our members to express their creativity, celebrate identity and belonging, and connect with people across Renfrewshire.
“Taking part has helped raise the profile of our charities work and celebrate Paisley’s rich thread and textile heritage. We have created a tapestry of self-portraits from these sessions which symbolises inclusion and community.”
Councillors approved additional funding earlier this year to extend the events programme through 2028. An updated toolkit to help community groups organise their own events is expected later this year.
Council leader Iain Nicolson said: “Our events programme continues to make a meaningful contribution to communities across Renfrewshire. It brings people together, supports local businesses and creates opportunities for residents and visitors to take part in activities that celebrate the area’s culture and identity.
“The refreshed community events toolkit will also help those benefits reach the rest of Renfrewshire by equipping community groups across the area to stage their own events – by offering a mixture of funding and expert advice.
“This year’s results so far demonstrate the value of investing in events that deliver both economic benefits and positive community outcomes. It’s particularly encouraging to see such strong feedback from attendees and the pride these events inspire in local towns and neighbourhoods.”
The next major event is Paisley Halloween Festival, on Friday 23rd October from 4pm and Saturday 24th October from 2pm. Christmas lights switch-on events are planned for Paisley, Renfrew, Johnstone, Erskine and Linwood in November.