Falkirk Council hands over control of major music event to local teenagers
Falkirk Council is entrusting talented local youngsters to produce and run its big World Music Day event.
World Music Day, which falls on Sunday, June 21, 2026, aims to encourage people, both professional and amateur, to play music in public spaces.
Now a new initiative by the local authority will put local teenagers in charge of World Music Day Falkirk, having them do everything from curating acts to running the show.
It is hoped the opportunity will give them hands on experience of how live events are made.
Called "World Music Day - Young Producers”, the programme is being run by Falkirk Council in partnership with Falkirk Delivers to help 16 to 18 year olds learn the
ropes of event planning and production.
The launch follows more than 6000 responses to the New Falkirk Town Hall Young Person’s Survey, which highlighted a strong desire among young people to have a say in local events and better access to creative spaces and opportunities.
From January to June next year, the young producers will lead the planning and delivery of World Music Day Falkirk, a free, town-centre celebration of live music
taking place on Sunday, June 21 next year.
Working alongside industry mentors and the council’s arts team, the young producers will help shape everything from the line-up of local performers to marketing, staging and event logistics.
It’s a rare opportunity to not only learn how live events are organised but also make the event something young people can call their own.
Participants will be supported throughout by Hazel Beattie, the council’s arts development officer, who has more than 25 years’ experience in programming, event and venue management, and delivering large-scale community projects.
Applications are now being taken and are open to young people aged 16 to 18 who live in the Falkirk Council area.
Applicants should be passionate about music, events or promotion, and be ready to roll up their sleeves and get involved.
Applications must be submitted by 5pm on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Falkirk Council leader Cecil Meiklejohn said: “The enthusiasm and insight young people shared through the town hall survey was truly inspiring. They told us clearly that they want to be part of our area’s creative future - not just as audiences, but as organisers and contributors.
"The Young Producers programme gives them that chance. It’s a hands-on way to build skills in events, PR and marketing, and production, helping them gain new skills and experience that will boost their CVs and help them stand out in applications for college, university or future jobs.”
Hazel Beattie added: “This is all about giving young people a voice and real responsibility. They’ll be the ones deciding who performs, how the day looks and feels and how to get audiences excited.
"We’ll be there to support and guide them, but the creative direction will be all theirs.”
Falkirk Deliver manager Elaine Grant said: “World Music Day Falkirk is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain hands-on experience in what it takes to plan and promote an event in a town centre setting.
“It’s also a great way to connect people with our town centre businesses, as events like this bring vibrancy and footfall into Falkirk, supporting local traders and encouraging community engagement."