Dingwall is beginning to glow as residents across the town prepare illuminated window displays for the Bright Burgh Trail, the opening public event of the Dingwall 800 celebrations marking 800 years since the town became a Royal Burgh.
With just over a week to go until the trail lights up on Saturday 17 January, organisers say the response from the community has been heartening, with windows already being transformed into colourful, creative artworks inspired by Dingwall’s heritage, folklore and local stories.
The Bright Burgh Trail will see homes, shops and public buildings become part of a mapped evening walking route, inviting residents and visitors to explore the town through light, art and storytelling as the anniversary year begins.
Siobhan MacIntyre, Event Producer for Dingwall 800, said the enthusiasm shown so far has been encouraging.
“We’ve had so many people coming to Robertson House to collect art packs and get their windows ready for Bright Burgh Trail, and we’re so pleased that the community has taken Dingwall 800 to heart so quickly,” she said.
Free art packs remain available for anyone looking for materials or inspiration, and can be borrowed from Robertson House on Greenhill Street at 11am each day until Friday 9 January, book in advance by emailing Siobhan.MacIntyre@feisrois.org
“There’s still time to get involved,” Ms MacIntyre added.
“Whether you’ve already started your design or are just thinking about it now, we’d love to see as many windows lit up as possible to launch our special anniversary year.
“Every window adds to the magic.”
Participants are encouraged to decorate their windows around themes including Dingwall’s history, music, storytelling, royal connections, art, community and local legends, with displays illuminated between 5pm and 9.30pm on the night of the trail.
Residents who wish to have their window included on the official walking trail map must register their address by Monday 12 January, helping guide visitors around the town to see community displays, special shopfront exhibitions, and a projection and soundscape at Dingwall Town Hall.
“The Bright Burgh Trail is designed to bring people together,” Ms MacIntyre said.
“Wrap up warm and enjoy a magical evening walk through Dingwall as it fills with light, colour and stories.”
Children in P4 to P7 at Dingwall Primary School will also take part, creating lanterns under the guidance of storyteller and artist Lizzie MacDougall, while members of the public are invited to bring their own lanterns or torches, using artificial flames, to help light the streets.
The Bright Burgh Trail marks the first of many creative, cultural and community events planned throughout 2026 to celebrate Dingwall’s 800-year story.
To keep up to date with Dingwall 800, please visit www.feisrois.org, sign up to the newsletter, or follow Dingwall 800 on Facebook and Instagram.
