The Tweed River Festival flows back into the Borders this autumn, exploring the river’s role at the heart of local life
The Tweed River is alive with the changing of the season. Downy birch trees are turning orange, helicopter seeds are falling from Sycamores and the water’s surface is decorated with ripples from jumping salmon. This vibrant pocket of the Scottish Borders has always drawn those seeking closeness to nature. An estimated 300,000 canny staycationers and tourists visit the area every year, drawn by its scenic valleys, protected wildlife, Tweed textile history and world-class salmon fishing pools. But it’s the Tweed River Festival that’s pulling hoards of visitors to the area this autumn.
The festival debuted in Peebles in 2025 and will be hosted in Melrose this year. A dramatic abbey and riverbank walks make the perfect backdrops for the event, which will take place from 30th to 31st October. From guided swims and film screenings to crafting classes and artist talks, here’s everything you need to know about the Tweed River Festival 2026.
What is the Tweed River Festival
The Tweed River Festival is a celebration of the river’s history, which dates back to Scotland’s last ice age more than 10,000 years ago. The event was launched as part of the Destination Tweed programme. It encourages towns along the Tweed’s 97-mile course to host events that explore local history, nature and art.
“The river flows through many different villages. It’s a living presence for communities,” says Tiki Muir, who is the River Culture Curator for the festival. She explains that the festival acts as a reminder that every town or village, and its people, are connected by something bigger.
“We are really excited to hold the festival in Melrose and want everyone to feel welcome,” she says with a smile. “The festival is so special and unique. It brings creativity and culture, while thinking about environmental impact and how communities can be affected when the climate is harmed.”
What you can expect at the festival
This year’s theme is ‘Under Over Round and Through’. It invites participants to join artist-led sessions and rediscover the riverbank through guided walks and talks.
The programme blends practical workshops with public celebrations including a parade, wild swimming sessions and live music. “We want to see visitors get stuck in and have a go at creating,” says Tiki.
Connecting Threads, the community organisation behind the festival, has invited artists to explore Melrose’s past and present.
Savinder Bual will tell the stories of Melrose Abbey and the town’s medieval monastic history. Rebecca Beinart will examine wetland ecosystems and how the town interacts with the river today. Drop-in sessions, film screenings and community crafting will also be open, including screen printing with local artist Zoe Atherfold.
The connection between the river and the climate
Being run in partnership with Culture for Climate Scotland means sustainability is central to the programme. For example, artist Eve Mosher will lead a net making workshop that links practical craft skills with conversations about people, places and habitats.
How much does it cost, and how do I get there?
The festival has a flexible pricing system. Some events offer free tickets for people on limited incomes, while others use a pay-what-you-can model.
“The Tweed River Festival is a vital chance to build relationships along the river; to share knowledge, stories and perspectives on how to sustain caring, resilient and river-loving communities.”
Connecting Threads is the cultural arm of Destination Tweed, an initiative supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.
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