A summer of stories.

A Summer of Stories: Largo’s Big Picnic and the Alexander Selkirk Celebrations

On Sunday 21 June, Lundin Links Common came alive for the 7th annual Big Picnic and Parade. Under the theme of Shipwrecked, the day brought together families, neighbours, volunteers and community groups from across the area, and by all accounts it just keeps growing. There were stalls of every kind, Ukrainian community food, live music from OpenSea, activities from bowling to biscuit making, and the Leven and District

Pipe Band led a colourful parade through the Common. Pepsi the horse was there too, and plenty of Father’s Day fun. The biggest thank you goes to everyone who set up a stall, ran an activity, donated tombola prizes, dressed up or simply turned up with a blanket and a smile. You’re the ones who make this day what it is. A particular thank you to Largo Area Community Council and every group and volunteer who pitched in, and to the weather gods for finally coming through.

The Shipwrecked theme wasn’t just for fun. It connects directly to another adventure unfolding this summer: the 350th anniversary celebrations of Alexander Selkirk, the Lower Largo man said to have inspired Robinson Crusoe and the first novel in the English language. Our new heritage group has taken on an ambitious project to mark the occasion, working with many dedicated volunteers to bring it to life. Exhibition Week runs from 22 to 29 August at the Aurrie Mor, with lots of interactive activities and an exhibition exploring Selkirk’s charismatic and enigmatic story. It’s a real achievement for a group that formed to take this on, and a testament to what’s possible when a community decides something matters.

What’s On During Exhibition Week

From 22 to 29 August, there’s something for everyone. Start with the Castaway Film Night at Largo Library and Community Hub (21 August), then join the Book Launch for “Alexander Selkirk: Fiction’s First Celebrity” on the opening day. A Treasure Hunt runs all week for all ages, while evening activities include Selkirk Island Discs, a Railway Inn Quiz, and Storytelling at the Library. On 29 August, the Ukrainian Amateur Theatre brings Robinson Crusoe to life, and there’s a Sandcastle Competition on the beach. The festivities wrap up with Cricket and a BBQ on 30 August. If you fancy a creative challenge, enter the Writing Competition (closing date end of July). Later in the autumn, evening lectures are planned (dates to be confirmed), and the Selkirk Anniversary Exhibition will go on tour at The Scottish Fisheries Museum from December. For more details, email [email protected].