THE east-west divide means that big-league rival events in Glasgow and Edinburgh are vying for your patronage this weekend.
Here the sixth
river festival returns to the Clyde on Saturday (July 25) and Sunday (July 26) and looks to be even bigger and better than last year.
In the capital, The Gathering – a major highlight of Homecoming Scotland – centres on majestic Holyrood park. But admission costs.
By contrast – and free – Glasgow's latest nautical celebration is showcased within a watery triangle that links Glasgow's
Tall Ship, SV Glenlee, the
SECC and the
science centre at Pacific Quay.
The Royal Navy will have a presence – HMS Blyth – but recalling an earlier maritime tradition there will be live swashbuckling action featuring cannons, musketeers and sword-fighters on the pirate ships
Zebu and
Vilma.
Zebu, a traditional wooden brigantine, will be open to the public (as will HMS Blyth) to show visitors what life at sea is like aboard a historic sailing ship.
The paddlesteamer Waverley is also joining in and will be cruising doon the watter on Sunday.
Seaforce, the powerboat training school, will be offering short rides on a high-speed rib. Meanwhile, festival favourite the white-knuckle Zapcat, will be offering taster sessions from Glasgow Community and Safety Services.
Sensational jet-ski demonstrations from the Jet Sport Racing Association are other crowd pleasers and promise spectacular stunts from four times world pro freestyle champion, Lee Stone.
Pacific Quay is also the Glasgow base of captain David West's unique seaplane operation and the sight of the stylish Cessnas taking off or landing on the river during the festival will be a memorable one --- even if you are not on board the aircraft at the time.
On land the excitement comes from live music, funfairs and displays by the Wildcats netball team.
Strathclyde Partnership for Transport will support the festival for a third year by providing 20 free shuttle buses from Glasgow city centre to the festival site which is open from 11am till 6pm on both days.
As previously, free transport will also be available from Greenock, Hamilton and Kilmarnock. Last year 14,400 complimentary journeys were provided.
For shuttle bus timetable information go to:
www.spt.co.uk/events/ 