Ambitious events strategy launched promoting the Borders as an event destination

Published: 18th November 2022

We launched our Event Strategy Plan, on Thursday 17 November, outlining our vision over the next five years promoting the Scottish Borders as an event destination

EventScotland, VisitScotland, The South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) and Live Borders attended the launch which took place at the Great Tapestry of Scotland building in Galashiels.   

The Scottish Borders is currently building a strong reputation as a great place to hold a wide variety of activity-based outdoor events. The plan intends to build on this highly successful work which has taken place over the past few years where the Scottish Borders now has a portfolio of successful ‘home grown’ events including Borders Book Festival, Melrose 7s, Jim Clark Rally and TweedLove. It also sets out our approach to bring new events to the area developing the region as an international and national events destination.

Euan Jardine, Leader of the Council

“It’s vital that we continue to nurture our home-grown events, take the opportunity to increase the number and diversity of events, and attract new national and international events to the Scottish Borders. I believe it is vital to support this vibrant industry sector and help to re-establish it throughout the Scottish Borders and be seen as a host destination for future events.”

The 2022–27 Strategic Events Plan is ambitious, targeting support from events that will have the greatest economic impact for the region and providing national and international benefits.  Events are an important part of the social and economic fabric of communities, enriching lives of local residents, attracting visitors and improving the economic vitality of the area.

Scott Hamilton, Executive member for Community and Business Development and Deputy Leader

“Events in the Borders raise the profile of the area and deliver significant economic benefits to local businesses, from accommodation providers to retail and food and drink establishments, and provide entertainment, enjoyment and positive experiences for local people too.  In 2019, the economic benefits associated with Council-supported events were estimated to be around £4.5m.”

This is an ambitious new Strategic Events Plan and one which will continue and build upon the excellent work to date seeing the Scottish Borders strengthen its reputation as one of Scotland’s leading event destinations.

You can download a copy of the Events Strategy 2022 – 2027 from our website