Wickerman Festival 2015 - non-musical activities

We are mere days from Wickerman 2015 and the excitement is building. Lots of people I know are going down for the first time, attracted by the fantastic eclectic line-up featuring the likes of the Stereo MC's, Neneh Cherry, Jimmy Cliff, BMX Bandits, Lulu, The Waterboys and Sugarhill Gang.

I've blogged about 20 artists to look out for at Wickerman HERE (before the additions of The Vaselines and Admiral Fallow).

There is a whole host of things going on at Wickerman other than music though. This year includes the addition of Maggie's Centres as the official charity partner and they will be raising awareness of their work throughout the weekend in a special tent. Lulu will be making a guest appearance there through the weekend.

Here are 10-things that you might stumble across over the course of the weekend;

1. Maggie's Centres tent
I used to work for Maggie's and I am extremely fond and passionate about the charity which helps so many people to live with, through and beyond cancer. The charity was the brainchild of Maggie Jencks and the Jencks family still have firm roots in Dumfries, so it is fitting that they are the charity partner of Wickerman. Pop into their tent for some taster sessions and a chat with the team. If you are lucky you might get in for Lulu's special performance.

2. Lots of people wearing waistcoats

Organisers are encouraging revellers to pay homage to Wickerman’s Festival Founder, Jamie Gilroy, by donning his signature look – a flamboyant Festival waistcoat. In keeping with this year’s fancy dress theme, the mini ‘gateman’ Wickerman statue, which welcomes visitors at the Festival entrance, will don a bespoke waistcoat, which was handcrafted by Edinburgh-based designer Vixy Rae. 

3. A Karaoke Taxi

I dare say that this will become extremely popular after a few drinks and there is bound to be someone who puts in a star performance.....or maybe even a star....

4. The Jimmy Carr Bar

A highlight from the last few Wickerman festivals - a must for a drink a photo opportunity as the staff serve you from straight out of Jimmy Carr's mouth.

En route to the Jimmy Barr (top right) last year

5. Granny Turismo

Now this sounds like it could be a real laugh - the first and only granny shopping trolley dance display team will be at Wickerman! Surreal fun guaranteed.

6. Grass sledging

I remember the first time I went to Wickerman and saw this and thought 'I have to try that'. For kids and adults alike, this is great fun as you hurtle down a hill towards the Wickerman.

7. Zip wire

The worlds first mobile zip wire will offer fans a birds eye view of the festival. Best not to have too much to eat and drink before going on!

8. Campervan Photo Booth

Who needs selfies when you have a retro campervan that is also a photo booth? Pile in with your friends for pics that you are sure to treasure in the future.

9. Kids stuff

There is plenty of stuff on offer for kids that will also appeal to adults but it worth remembering that children under the age of 12 get FREE admission to Wickerman.

A new Festival Circus is set to wow the crowds with a series of shows hosted in an eye catching big top. Fans can even try out some of the skills for themselves in a series of circus workshops.

For £3 per day, children can enjoy a host of fun activities in Wickerman’s dedicated Children’s Area. All admission charges will be donated towards the education of James Okeyo, an African orphan who the festival have sponsored since 2011. Storytelling sessions, singalongs, art workshops and puppet shows are just some of the highlights that will keep children (and those accompanying them) entertained.

10. The Retreat

If it all becomes a little bit too much then you might want to seek out The Retreat, where a variety of relaxing treatments will be on offer. Alongside the retreat, revellers can enjoy a series of Yoga and Qigong sessions.