A Festival of Family, Fun and Inclusion
Nestled in the heart of Raehills Estate, Moffat, Dumfries, Eden Festival continues to establish itself as the ultimate family-focused celebration of music, creativity, and community. Known for its inclusive atmosphere, this year’s edition proved once again that there’s no better place for families to connect, play and embrace their imaginative side, rain or shine.
As the sound of laughter echoed across the fields, parents, children, and teens alike found endless opportunities to dive into an eclectic mix of activities, from singing and dancing to painting and playful parades. For many families, Eden Festival is a yearly tradition that keeps evolving, becoming a safe haven for children of all ages and abilities to express themselves freely.
“We brought our 5-year-old daughter here for the first time and it’s been a blast! From the moment we arrived. There’s always something to do and she’s been so happy mostly playing in the sandpit” shared one thrilled parent. Another regular attendee added, “Canny believe it’s better every year! The mud might be here, but it’s no problem for us or the grandkids. They’ve been making up plays behind the trees, even wrestling—it has been a right laugh!”
What sets Eden Festival apart is its strong focus on creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all children, including those with special needs. “My youngest son is autistic, I was hesitant to bring him but the family area is such a peaceful place. He’s been engaging in the workshops without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a dream come true for us, to see him so happy and at ease” said one parent who praised the festival’s sensory-friendly spaces and gentle vibe.
The activities themselves are nothing short of magical. Whether it’s story time or activities in the big tent, mud sliding down the hill, or getting lost in all of the creativity, there’s no shortage of ways to spark the imagination. One family of six marveled at how even their teenagers, who were initially reluctant, begged to join the fun after a quick FaceTime glimpse of what the festival had to offer. “My brother is bringing them tomorrow, they can’t wait! The four who are here have been non-stop.”
The music too strikes a chord, especially for the little ones. “We loved the singing with Katie at the bandstand” one parent said. “Our wee one is usually shy, but after five minutes, she was up singing and dancing with everyone else.”
As for the teens the main stage and vibrant energy of the Lost Disco Space were major highlights. “Our teens are having the time of their lives. We’ve barely seen them, only for money” one parent laughed. “Everyone is just enjoying themselves, and the kindness of the crowd makes it feels really safe.”
For children with ADHD or autism, Eden’s thoughtful setup ensures everyone can find a space to thrive. A mother shared, “My 10-year-old autistic son has never been so content in a big crowd. There’s always a calm place for him to retreat to, whether it’s in the children’s tent, the circus skills area or the sensory environment of the Vishnu place. I’m happy we gave this festival a try!”
From tree swings to galloping on imaginary horses, the festival is a playground for young imaginations. “My 4-year-old is pretending to be a knight, galloping on his invisible horse” one parent said, smiling as they pointed to their son playing nearby. “And my daughter’s been enchanted by all the painting and fairy crafts.”
Despite the classic Scottish weather, nothing could dampen the spirit of the event, including the beloved annual parade. “Even with the mud, the parade was incredible” shared a long-time attendee. “The chanting made us feel like part of something truly special, the kids look forward to it every year.”
In the end, Eden Festival is more than just a gathering—it’s a place where families of all shapes and sizes come together to bond, explore new activities, and create memories that last a lifetime. As one parent perfectly summed it up, “this is our family time.”
Not just families and children but many inner children were also at play in the crowds too, magical.
With its unbeatable combination of inclusive activities, creative spaces, and a focus on togetherness, Eden Festival continues to be a must-visit for families across the country. Whether it’s your first time or part of an annual tradition, Eden Festival promises an unforgettable experience for everyone!
Book your ticket for next year! www.edenfestival.co.uk
Stacie Amelia Fine Arts & Creative Journaliam 