KIRKIN’ AND SASHING

Sponsored by Hamills Decorating

Sunday, 19th July 2026

For as long as memory serves, the Kirkin’ and Sashing have stood as distinct events within Festival Week. However, in 2025, in a historic first, these two cherished traditions were united into a single ceremony. This change was welcomed by the attendees and the community and the same format will be followed in 2026. 

On Sunday, 19th July at 10:30am, the official party will lead a distinguished procession from the Old Town Hall to Northesk Church. Joining them will be a long line of past Honest Lads in top hats and tails, and past Honest Lasses in their finery, honouring the legacy of the Honest Toun.

Along the High Street, the Honest Lad and Honest Lass will pause at the War Memorial opposite the Caprice to lay a wreath. A short memorial service will follow, culminating in the solemn playing of Flo’ers o’ the Forest and The Last Post.

Upon arrival at Northesk Church, a special service will take place, attended by the Provost, Burgh Councillors, members of the Honest Toun’s Association, local committees, and youth organisations. Here, the Honest Lad and Lass will be formally ‘Kirked’ in the presence of representatives from churches across the community.

The Sashing ceremony will then follow.

The Sashing ceremony holds a deeply significant place in Festival Week, leaving a lasting impression on those who attend due to its emotional depth and connection to the traditions of past Festivals. For each Honest Lad and Lass, the moment is unforgettable – marked by a sense of nervous anticipation as they accept the honour and responsibility entrusted to them.

This year, we welcome a “well kent face” as our Sasher – Reno DiRollo. As the first formal event of Festival Week, the Sashing remains a cherished and enduring tradition, symbolising the beginning of a meaningful journey.

During this ceremony, the outgoing Honest Lad and Honest Lass formally pass on their sashes, symbolically entrusting their successors with the honour and duties of the role. The Provost of the Burgh presents the Burgh Flag to the new Honest Lad, charging him to carry it “unsullied and unstained” throughout the remainder of the week. The jewelled Riding Crop is bestowed upon the Honest Lass, who then performs the time-honoured act of “Bussing the Colours.” Both the Honest Lad and Honest Lass also receive their engraved medals—marking the first of many treasured mementos commemorating their time in office.