FEARS over the future of the Cowal Gathering have been eased after council funding for the iconic Dunoon event was secured in the latest budget.
The welcome news that Argyll and Bute Councils Strategic Festival and Events Fund will continue into 2026/27 comes after concerns it could be cut, raising questions over the long-term sustainability of the Gathering.
Against that backdrop, Cowal Gathering hosted a special evening this week to thank sponsors and business patrons, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to deliver one of Scotlands largest cultural events.
Chairman David Mitchell MBE and event manager Alexandra Brough led a detailed presentation covering the history of the Gathering and its wide-reaching impact on Dunoon not only culturally, but economically.
Each year, more than 12,000 visitors descend on Dunoon Stadium, generating an estimated 1.5 million for the local economy and firmly placing the town on the international stage.
Guests at the event were given an insight into the sheer scale of planning involved, from infrastructure and logistics to managing competitions, partnerships and operations all supported by a network of volunteers, sponsors and suppliers.
However, organisers were also candid about the financial pressures facing the event. The cost of staging Cowal Gathering rose to 442,994 in 2025 a 40 per cent increase since 2019 while ticket prices have risen by just 30 per cent in an effort to remain accessible.
Rising infrastructure costs were highlighted, with essential facilities such as toilets alone costing 21,000 last year.
Earlier this year, the Board met with MSP Jenni Minto and local councillors to underline these growing challenges and stress the importance of continued support.
Welcoming confirmation that council funding will remain in place, Mr Mitchell said: Partnership working is essential to the continued success of Cowal Gathering.
Our collaboration with Argyll and Bute Council demonstrates the importance of working together to encourage community engagement, support tourism and drive local economic growth, ensuring Cowal Gathering remains a key fixture on Scotlands cultural calendar for generations to come.
Organisers are now looking to build on that momentum, with plans to host a community event at Dunoons Burgh Hall, giving residents their own opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes.
Further details will be announced via the Cowal Gathering Facebook page in the coming weeks.
