Musselburgh Festival ends with traditional Rideout through the town

A WEEK of entertainment at Musselburgh Festival was brought to a close with the help of the traditional Rideout through the town.

Musselburgh Festival Riders head down High Street. Picture; Jon Savage

Following Saturday’s horseback procession, the Waterfront Family Day wrapped things up, including a raft race and harbour ceremony.

Saturday’s events also included the Festival Day picnic at Musselburgh Racecourse and the Festival Ball at The Brunton.

Events kicked off with last week’s traditional Kirkin Sunday, a procession to St Michael’s Church, Inveresk, for the official party.

The week’s events also took in the ever-popular Crusaders’ Chase on Monday with horses and riders fording the River Esk near the Roman Bridge followed by a duck race.

That was followed by the customary Crusaders’ Chase night dance at Eskmills Bowling Club.

Sports fans also got to enjoy a football tournament organised by Musselburgh Athletic the same night.

Tuesday also witnessed the Junior Rideout, with runners and riders in the saddle from Inveresk Industrial Estate.

The free family fun day was held on Wednesday at Lewisvale Park, with a festival tea dance at The Brunton on Thursday – followed by fancy dress Friday.