Flambeaux

Whilst the origins of this ancient custom are lost in the mists of time, the tradition is maintained by local voluntary effort. Each Hogmanay, as midnight is announced by the bells of Big Ben, the flambeaux are lit. The torches, consisting of long thick birch poles with tarred rags tightly bound to the tops, are paraded around the village preceded by the pipe band and followed by a fancy dress parade. When the procession returns to Melville Square prizes are presented and the torches are cast over the Dalginross Bridge into the waters of the River Earn. This is believed to signify the casting out of evil spirits. Many of the villagers follow this on with the custom of 'First Footing' which usually involves a dfferent type of spirit entirely!

Comrie Fortnight

The Comrie Fortnight is an annual festival held in the village, during July and August. The Comrie Fortnight was originally started by Jack Elliot and Mrs Palmer, in the late 1960's, to coincide with the traditional Glasgow Trades Fortnight. Scotland has local holidays at various times of the year and also trade fairs fortnight. Edinburgh's is the first two weeks in July, Glasgow's is the 3rd and 4th weeks in July. The tradition has evolved over the years and the festival now runs a whole range of activities from competitions to outings, from dances to the parade, ensuring that there is something to suit everybody.

Comrie Pipe Band

Formed in the 1920's. One of the prime movers behind the band was Mr. Alexander McGregor who headed a Committee which raised funds to provide uniforms for those who could not buy their own and also to pay for the equipment. The band played at many functions throughout Perthshire. In 1929 the band was one of eight bands taking part in the pipe band contest at Comrie Highland Gathering. 155 bandsmen took part with Comrie Pipe Band having 15 players in Royal Stewart tartan under Pipe Major Thomas Clark.