The Yearly Comet Festival

The Comet Festival was formed in 1986 when a group of local people who lived and worked in Port Glasgow were concerned about the decline of the local industries and were looking for ways of restoring some pride in the area in an effort to lift morale in the community. At this stage the idea of putting on an event where the community could get involved and enjoy came about. Originally intended to be a one day event the group (now formed a committee)soon realized that when other people and organizations were contacted about the concept of a Festival the interest was so overwhelming it was decided that the Festival Committee progress some of the ideas which had been received. It soon became apparent that the Festival was going to be bigger than a one day event, and therefore it should be held in 1987 to allow the group of volunteers committee members time to plan the various events.

As the committee were planning the festival it was discovered that 1987 would be the 175th Anniversary of the launch of the original Comet. By the early part of 87' dates and events had been finalised and arranged.
The first festival took place with the following events: Exhibition of Old Photographs
A slide show of Port Glasgow
Mock Period Kitchen (included actors)
School Painting Competition
Open golf Tournament
Festival Queen Contest

Not to mention the vintage Car Display, Float Parade, Helicopter Rides, a selection of bands and dancers, the all important beer tent and last but by no means least the Free Fall Parachute display Team.

The huge success of this event which attracted and estimated 10,000 visitors made the committee decide to continue with an annual Comet Festival albeit with a slightly smaller committee these days but with no less dedication. The festival now takes place over two weeks and various events are planned for each year and a main theme decided upon.

The group is supported by Inverclyde District council through grant funding and the use of town premises. Local businesses through sponsorship of an event and advertising in the festival programme. The local community help with donations and purchasing tickets for events and organised dances and nights out.

The whole event is rounded off each year with an open air (weather permitting) ecumenical service know as Port Praise which is organised by local churches.

The comet festival web site although listed in the search engines it is not available but is currently being re-built. Some of these details were taken from the 2001 programe. You can contact the Group Organisers at the Festival Office, Port Glasgow
Monday to Friday 10am-4pm..01475 744935

The group have recently left their premises in Johnwood Street but can be contacted at the same phone number. This photo is a few of the members enjoying the fun at the recent Port Glasgow bulb show which is held yearly in the town hall.

This page last modified on Monday, March 24, 2003

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