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July 8, 2025
Renfrewshire launches Summer of Fun free activity programme
July 8, 2025Thousands turned out to enjoy a day of fantastic live entertainment at Paisley’s annual Sma’ Shot Day celebrations on Saturday (5 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 showcased two new giant puppets, inspired by the traditional poets and musicians of the time, and featured colourful performers and costumes.
After 33 years of carrying the Charleston Drum in the Sma’ Shot Day parade, Tony Lawler handed over the drumsticks to Tommy McGrory of Paisley music school Loud ‘n’ Proud in a short ceremony at Brodie Park before the parade made its way 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, Evelyn Laurie and Neil Thomson, Howlin’ Radio and the Byres Road Big Band.
The afternoon also saw a selection of pop-up performances outside Paisley Abbey and at local upcycling business Restoration and Creation, who also hosted an artisan makers market and a selection of children’s workshops.
There were plenty of free, fun family activities on offer to keep everyone entertained including face painting, inflatables, arts and crafts and a funfair.
The historic Sma’ Shot Cottages also 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 and is supported by UNISON Renfrewshire branch.
