Thousands enjoy Sma’ Shot Day fun in Paisley

Thousands turned out to enjoy a day of fantastic live entertainment at Paisley’s annual Sma’ Shot Day celebrations on Saturday (6 July).

The event is one of the world’s oldest workers’ festivals and celebrates the famous victory of Paisley’s weavers in a 19th century industrial dispute.

The fun began with the popular Sma’ Shot parade which was co-ordinated by Bridgeman Arts in collaboration with a number of local community groups, performers and musicians. This year’s parade highlighted some of the performers and characters who might have appeared at Paisley Fair at the time and featured colourful performers, floats and costumes led by the Charleston Drum – which made its way from Brodie Park to the town centre.

Once it arrived at the main event site at Abbey Close and Bridge Street, visitors witnessed the spectacle of the traditional Burning of the Cork – a highlight of the Sma’ Shot Day celebrations,  introduced by spoken word artist and Tannahill makar Shaun Moore.  

Abbey Close played host to a full afternoon of entertainment on the live stage with performances from PACE Youth Theatre, who re-enacted the struggles of the Paisley weavers in their efforts for payment of the Sma’ Shot, the Rock Us choir, cover band Proposal, Sharon Martin, Evelyn Laurie and Caitlin Bonner Dance Company.

There was also plenty of free, fun family activities on offer to keep everyone entertained from face painting and balloon modelling to and arts and crafts and a sports day hosted by Furry Murry’s Adventure Playground.

The Browns Lane Makers’ Market at local upcycling business Restoration and Creation hosted live music throughout the day and gave visitors the chance to browse and buy unique items from local makers.

The Bungalow venue staged a jam-packed programme of live entertainment, including the popular Poetry Slam, while the historic Sma’ Shot Cottages opened its doors for visitors to take a trip back in time through Paisley’s rich weaving history.

Sma’ Shot Day is organised by Renfrewshire Council as part of the area’s major events programme.

To find out about more upcoming events in Paisley and Renfrewshire visit: www.paisley.is.