FESTIVAL DAY
Saturday 25 July 2026
The grand finale of Festival Week is here — Festival Saturday, a day steeped in history, pride, and community spirit.
Join us as we honour a centuries-old tradition, watching the Honest Lad carry the Burgh Flag around the town’s boundaries, a powerful symbol of Musselburgh’s heritage.
🕘 The Day Begins…
The Official Party, led by the Chief Marshal, sets off from Balcarres Road, making their way to Pinkie House for the ceremonial Scroll Presentation.
At 09:00, the gates of Pinkie House will open, and the Rideout begins — a stirring sight as the cavalcade is joined by the Town Band, local councillors, honoured guests, and visitors from across the Borders.
🎠 Family Fun Awaits!
After the rideout, head to Musselburgh Racecourse for our beloved Festival Family Fun Day — packed with entertainment for all ages! (See separate page for full details.)
Come along, watch the horses, and be part of a day that brings Musselburgh together in celebration of its proud past and joyful present.
Ride details:
All horse boxes to be parked at Balcarres Road, behind Musselburgh Racecourse. All riders must be mounted by 08:30.
13:45 the Honest Lad will return the Burgh flag at the Old Town Hall.
Safety Information
This is a fast paced ride and not suitable for beginners or those requiring to be led. All horses and riders are expected to be of adequate fitness and ability to trot, canter and gallop for prolonged periods over different terrain. It is the responsibility of the horse hirer/owner to ensure that both
the horse and rider are suitable and capable.
All riders under the age of 12 who are participating in the Monday and Saturday rides must be accompanied by a responsible mounted adult or they will not be permitted to take part.
Any rider who is unable to keep up with the pace of the ride will be asked to leave the ride with immediate effect. Any rider under the influence of alcohol and/or incapable of controlling their horse will also be asked to leave the ride with immediate effect. In the event of having been asked to leave the ride, it is henceforth the responsibility of the rider to ensure their own safety and that of their horse.
The Chief Marshal and their appointed marshals are in place to ensure the safe running of the ride and, as such, their instructions should be followed at all times. The route taken by the Chief Marshal is the route of the ride and the entire cavalcade must follow this route.
Musselburgh Festival will provide a minimum of two marshals, either mounted or on foot, to assist with any fallen riders/injured horses and we ask that the remainder of the ride continues in order to maintain timings. Emergency procedures will be implemented if required with 999/vet/farrier being contacted and utilised as necessary.
All riders must wear a wristband displaying an emergency contact name and number and these will be available at the horsebox parking areas on each of the ride days.
To ensure we maintain best standards, only smart and suitable riding wear should be worn i.e. stock and ties, riding jacket and/or waistcoats. No t-shirts, hoodies or sports tops should be worn.
MUSSELBURGH FESTIVAL
This is the go to platform for Musselburgh Festival. Dating back to 1936, our week long annual celebration honours the traditions of our Town and brings our community together.