In 2026, Rutherglen will mark 900 years since being granted Royal Burgh status by King David I of Scotland in 1126. To celebrate this incredible milestone, we are hosting a year-long festival of events, exhibitions, performances, community storytelling and activities. Rutherglen 900 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come together as a community — to reflect on our past, take pride in our present, and shape the future of our beloved town.
Our programme is split into six strands. Each one offers events, projects and opportunities tailored to different interests.
We’re proud to introduce Dougie the Pigeon, the official mascot of Rutherglen 900!
Dougie was designed by Emma, a pupil at St. Anthony’s Primary School, whose creative and characterful design captured the hearts of our judges. The winning entry was announced at the school’s awards ceremony, where Emma received her well-deserved prize.
Dougie will appear throughout the anniversary year — on posters, online, at events, and maybe even in person! A huge well done to Emma, and thank you to all the pupils who entered. Your ideas were inspiring and full of local pride.
There are multiple ways that you can get involved in the Rutherglen 900 celebrations:
Want to organise your own event as part of the Rutherglen 900 celebrations?
Can you volunteer to help out at our events. We’d love to hear from you!
If you need funding for your event, you can apply for our Community Contributions Fund.
We are proud to be working alongside some key community partners within Rutherglen including local schools, CamGlen Radio, Healthy n Happy, Rutherglen Heritage Society, sports clubs, environmental groups and many more.
Rutherglen 900 is funded by Clyde Gateway and South Lanarkshire Council
