Fringe by the Sea invites community to grow a
shared wildflower meadow for 2026 festival

Fringe by the Sea is calling on the local community to take part in a new planting initiative, Project Plant, inviting individuals, families, schools and businesses to help create a shared wildflower meadow for the 2026 festival.

The project aims to capture the unique community spirit of Fringe by the Sea by encouraging people to grow their own mini wildflower meadow in a pot. Each one will form part of a large-scale installation at the festival hub in North Berwick’s Lodge Grounds, demonstrating how small, individual actions can come together to create something meaningful. 

Participants can register from 15 April 2026 and collect a free planting kit – including a pot, compost, seeds and guidance – from North Berwick Community Centre Garden between 1–3pm on Fridays: 24 April, 1 May, 8 May, 15 May and 22 May. Alternative collection times can be arranged by emailing info@fringebythesea.com.

Once planted, participants will grow their wildflowers at home, school or work throughout spring and early summer, before submitting their pots on Friday 26 June or Friday 17 July at North Berwick Community Centre Garden. Each pot will include a personalised label, allowing contributors to leave their mark on the final installation.

Debbie Shinton, Marketing and Partnerships Manager at Fringe by the Sea, said:
“Our community projects are a highlight of the festival every year – from knitted bunting to last year’s pom pom installations, they bring colour, creativity and energy to the site. Project Plant is a simple but powerful idea, and we’re excited to see the community come together to grow something beautiful for 2026.”

The initiative is open to all, regardless of gardening experience, and aims to support local biodiversity by encouraging the growth of wildflowers, which provide vital habitats for bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

Following the festival, plants can either be collected by participants or replanted across North Berwick with support from Sustaining North Berwick, creating a lasting legacy for the town.

Project Plant is delivered in partnership with North Berwick in Bloom, Seilich and Herbspace, with additional support from Caledonian Horticulture and Sustaining North Berwick.

For more information or to take part, visit www.fringebythesea.com/projectplant or contact info@fringebythesea.com.