Tuesday September 16th 2025
Vogrie Pogrie 2025 campfire (All photos by Jethro Collins)
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
This past weekend, Vogrie Country Park was alive with colour, creativity and community as the Vogrie Pogrie Festival of Creativity & Curious Happenings returned for its most successful edition to date.
The family-friendly festival, which ran from Friday 12th to Monday 15th September, welcomed record-breaking numbers of attendees and participating artists, cementing its reputation as one of Scotland’s most distinctive independent festivals.
Over four days, more than 150 artists brought unforgettable performances, installations, workshops and woodland wonder to Midlothian. From the magical bedtime stories and BSL storytelling in the much-loved Story Yurt, to Tinkertown, Circus Skills and woodland crafts, there was something for every generation to discover.
Character in Vogrie Pogrie woods
Lucy Hopkins, Vogrie Pogrie’s Programmer, said:
“This year has felt truly special. The energy, creativity and care that artists, audiences and our community bring to Pogrie never fails to amaze me – but 2025 has gone beyond anything we imagined.
“To see record numbers of people sharing in this magical woodland festival, with more artists than ever and improved accessibility, shows just how much Vogrie Pogrie is growing as a space for everyone. We can’t wait to build on this for the future.”
Piano dismantling at Vogrie Pogrie
Late night DJ set at Vogrie Pogrie
The late-night programme at the Twisty Oak was a particular success, with sets from DJ Strathcarnage, Gusbo, Dolphin Boy with Kuchke, Jesscat and Nikki Kent filling the forest with light, sound and atmosphere long after dark. Sensory light shows in the woods added an immersive dimension to the after-hours experience.
Sunday’s Ruff’s Wooftastic Dog Show was a crowd favourite, drawing wagging tails and laughter in equal measure.
Live family music at Vogrie Pogrie
This year also marked major steps forward in accessibility. A larger shuttle service made travel easier, while the brand-new Forest Welcome Hub provided a central point for information, support and comfort. Additional features such as Beach Wheelchairs, audio description from Juliana Capes, quiet sensory spaces and BSL at selected performances helped ensure the festival was as inclusive as possible.
Family fun at Vogrie Pogrie
Operated as a Not-for-Profit Community Interest Company, Vogrie Pogrie reinvests all income into the event and its wider community work. While ticket sales cover core costs, donations and funding ensure the festival can remain accessible and inclusive, supporting year-round creative projects, free community transport and meals, accessibility initiatives, local artist collaborations and environmental action.
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