31 October 2024

Kelpies 10 team shortlisted for UK events award

This year's largest event at The Helix has been shortlisted for a national award recognising the best Council events team in the UK.

Falkirk Council and Scottish Canal's Kelpies 10 event, marking the tenth anniversary of the Kelpies sculptures, has been shortlisted for the "Best Events Team – Council" award at the 2024 National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) Awards.

The awards, held annually, recognise excellence in the UK events industry across various categories, from council and corporate events teams to individual contributions, safety practices, and sustainable initiatives.

The awards, overseen by an expert judging panel, aim to highlight the industry's high standards and innovation.

The Kelpies 10 event, which took place in April 2024 at Helix Park, celebrated the Kelpies’ impact on the local community and Scottish heritage.

The event featured a mix of activities, including street theatre, traditional storytelling, pipe band performances, and a showcase of Clydesdale horses, which inspired sculptor Andy Scott's original design.

An evening concert was also held with live performances from Scottish artists such as Callum Beattie and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, accompanied by a fire show from Pyroceltica.?

Cllr Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: “Since their unveiling, the Kelpies have become a cultural landmark and a focal point for tourism, drawing millions of visitors from around the world.

“Events like Kelpies 10 bring our community together and celebrate these structures' heritage. It is great to see the hard work of our events team recognised at the national level.”

Since opening, the Kelpies and Helix Park have drawn over seven million visitors, contributing an estimated £85 million annually to the local economy. The park, which earned a Green Flag and a Gold Green Tourism Award, has also been awarded five-star visitor status by VisitScotland.

The NOEA  Awards ceremony will take place on 26 November 2024.