The 850th Birthday of Our City, Glasgow

picture of glasgow 850s programme created by glasgow life

This year Scotland celebrates the 850th birthday of our city, Glasgow. In celebration of this momentous anniversary, Glasgow City Council have created a yearlong inclusive, citywide, programme of events and activities. These mainly reflect on how Glasgow City has transformed over the years and how we can build a better, sustainable future together.

Included below are some of the events which our staff are most looking forward to. With Red Deer Village Holiday Park being only 3 train stops from the city, they are all easily accessible.

Clyde Chorus, Glasgow – 29th-31st May 2025

Clyde Chorus is a three-day music event celebrating Glasgow and it’s 850th anniversary. The event features performances across multiple venues along the River Clyde. It highlights Glasgow’s vibrant music scene and celebrates its status as a UNESCO City of Music. There is a fringe programme with events and activities to suit all audiences as well as the main programme of events.

For full line up, information and tickets please visit Clyde Chorus. 

Clyde chorus Glasgow 2025 lineup

Taste the Place – Various dates across 2025

This ones for the food lovers! Taste the Place is offering locals and visitors the chance to “eat their way around the city” in celebration of Glasgow’s 850th birthday. Over 40 eateries are taking part representing 23 cuisines so you can be sure you will learn more about Glasgow’s hospitality scene.

The variety of dishes on offer ensures there will be something to suit everyones’ palate. Taste the Place have said, “You can expect to find everything from a vintage ice cream parlour and Eastern European bakery to African stews and Southeast Asian pulled noodles served from a hole in the wall.”

Visit Taste the Place for more details. 

Glasgow 850 taste the place event

Yardworks Festival – 3rd-4th May 2025

SWG3, typically a concrete playground, comes to life during the Yardwork’s Festival which takes place annually.

The festival is a celebration of the massive urban art culture that exists here in Glasgow. Both international and local talent come together during the first weekend in May to transform the space into a vibrant colour display of their unique and diverse skills. Also on offer will be delicious food and engaging activities, alongside the incredible performance of the artists’ at work.

The festival of art is both family and dog-friendly. Visit SWG3 website for more information.

picture from swg3 galvanizer's yard for the yardworks festival

Glasgow Mela – 22nd June 2025

The Glasgow Mela is held annually in Kelvingrove Park. Scotland’s largest South Asian festival showcases the vibrant diversity of the city through interactive activities and creative performances using music, dance, and poetry.

Alongside the incredible showcase of the diverse, South Asian culture which exists here in Glasgow, you can find the offering of global cuisine and artisan craft stalls. This free event creates an inclusive space where all the family can get involved.

For the celebration of Glasgow and its 850th birthday, the Mela festival will showcase how South Asian culture and heritage has contributed and diversified the city’s history.

picture from glasgow mela which is glasgows celebration of diversity

TRNSMT Festival – 11th-13th July 2025

Rockstar Energy presents TRNSMT, which is Scotland’s ultimate summer music celebration at Glasgow Green each July. TRNSMT is one of the UK’s top festivals and this year, global superstars 50 Cent and Biffy Clyro are headlining. The festival promises incredible performances and an electric energy. A Glasgow crowd at a gig is something our city’s people are renowned for.

For Glasgow’s 850th, you will find local stars showcasing their talent on the River Stage. You can purchase tickets and find more information on the TRNSMT website. In previous years, Red Deer Village Holiday Park has sold out with TRNSMT attendees… Book your accommodation now to avoid disappointment!

picture of trnsmt festival

GlasGLOW – 24th October-9th November 2025

GlasGLOW is undoubtably the UK’s best loved Halloween event. On this occasion, they are throwing a huge GlasGLOW 850 birthday party! It promises to be the perfect autumn night out for all the family. At GlasGlow, you will experience the Botanic Gardens brought to life by world-class sound, light and set design. It is a night of immersive experiences along with tasty food and drink stalls. Tickets will be available to purchase soon. Please visit the Itison website for more details.

GlasGLOW event which takes place every halloween in the botanic gardens

Glasgow850

Glasgow Life have created a programme which includes the schedule of events taking place so far across 2025. Additionally, there is an array of information on various historical landmarks, figures and times which influenced the Glasgow that we know and love today. You can read more about the city by clicking here. 

Stay With Us

Stay with us here at Red Deer Village Holiday Park to celebrate the momentous occasion of Glasgow’s 850th birthday – without the monumental, city centre price tag. Our holiday park is located in Stepps, which is just over the doorstep from Glasgow City. Just a short 10-15 minute walk will bring you to Stepps Train Station. In just 3 stops, you will arrive at Glasgow Queen Street Station, which is right in the heart of Glasgow. Our Scottish campsite offers self-catering accommodation available for rental, as well as touring caravan, motorhome and tent pitches. If you have any queries at all, please contact our team on 0141 779 4159 or info@reddeervillageholidaypark.co.uk.  sunset at red deer village which is a holiday park near glasgow with motorhome pitching and caravans and holiday homes