The Sma’ Shot Day event on Saturday 4 July 2026 is one of the world’s oldest workers’ festivals and celebrates the famous victory of Paisley’s weavers in a 19th century industrial dispute.
The fun began with the popular Sma’ Shot parade which was co-ordinated by Bridgeman Arts in collaboration with a number of local community groups, performers and musicians. This year’s parade showcased two new giant puppets and featured colourful performers and costumes led by the Charleston Drum.
Once it arrived at the main event site at Abbey Close and Bridge Street, Paisley, visitors witnessed the spectacle of the traditional Burning of the Cork – a highlight of the Sma’ Shot Day celebrations, introduced by spoken-word artist and Tannahill makar Shaun Moore.
Abbey Close played host to a full afternoon of entertainment on the live stage, including PACE Youth Theatre’s re-enactment of the struggles of the Paisley weavers in their efforts for payment of the Sma’ Shot, and a special collaborative performance between School of African Cultures Ubuntu Drumming Group and traditional musicians from Fèis Phàislig.
There were plenty of free, fun family activities on offer to keep everyone entertained with face painting, inflatables, arts and crafts and a funfair.
The historic Sma’ Shot Cottages also opened its doors for visitors to take a trip back in time through Paisley’s rich weaving history, and the Methodist Central Hall hosted the annual Sma’ Shot Day Tea Dance.
The celebrations didn’t stop there as fun continued well into the evening with the 40th anniversary street party at Restoration and Creation on Browns Lane and the Sma’ Shot Poetry Slam in Paisley Arts Centre.
Sma’ Shot Day is organised by Renfrewshire Council as part of the area’s major events programme and is supported by UNISON Renfrewshire branch.
To find out about more upcoming events in Paisley and Renfrewshire visit: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/events
