The 10th Westfest Big Sunday returns to Dundee’s Magdalen Green this weekend, boasting a unique line-up that celebrates the very best of the West End community.
Billed as the city’s biggest outdoor community fun day, the event boasts some of the best local live music, food stalls, a carnival, football coaching, art workshops and a DJ/dance tent featuring the Bombay Club DJs and more.
With more than 13,000 people attending last year, the event has become one of the most popular free family events in Scotland – and it’s run entirely by volunteers.
Dundee United FC coaches will provide expertise to young football fans, plus there’ll be kids’ activities, army and fire brigade demonstrations, charity stalls, craft activities and hopefully some Dundee sunshine.
Westfest chairperson Martin Hay said the committee had endured a year of hectic activity to provide all the attractions and ensure everything goes smoothly.
“It’s looking like another bumper day out,” he said.
“It’s a great feeling when you see all the happy faces of people really enjoying themselves.”
Music plays a big part in the event, and this year there’s a unique mix of swing, big band sounds, rock, soul, funk, ska and even some Indian/Spaghetti Western-influenced sitar and flute music, all featuring local talent.
“The Westfest Battle of the Bands competition was amazing,” said Martin.
“The narrow winner was the superb Calum Jones and his brilliant band, who are coming all the way from Buckie.
“We also have the wonderful Funk Connection, based across Dundee and Aberdeen, who will close the event with a bang.
“There’s a special surprise band on before them – coming from overseas but including a well-kent Dundee-based musician – and we also have, for the first time, the big band sound of the brilliant Woodlands Dance Orchestra, which will also feature some guest vocals from the Vintage Girls, Sheila Gaughan and Kenny Martin, among others.
“The Dundee Schools Rock Band will give their usual great performance too,” Martin added.
One of the more unique acts is Paul “Lefty” Wright’s new outfit, the 3rd Eye Flute Band.
Perth-based comedian Bruce Fummey is compere for the day.
Westfest opens at noon with festivities beginning at 1pm when the City of Dundee Pipe Band will march from Roseangle along to the green, followed by a performance from the Dundee Rep Timeless Tales Interactive Storytelling group.
Westfest takes place at Magdalen Green on Sunday, June 2.
