As the sun comes out across Edinburgh, students and locals flock to the meadows to bask in the sun and make the most of the rare occasion, however one group of locals, take gathering to a whole new level. Ladder Fest has been running since 2022 and what began as a joke between friends, has now turned into a widely attended event
The premise of Ladder Fest is simple, come to the meadows at a specific day and time, and bring a ladder. Step, wooden, single, all ladders are welcomed. The joy radiates from this event, from cheering whenever new ladders arrive, to passing out stickers and allowing passersby to have a go on their ladders. Daniel, the event organiser discusses how the event came to be-
“People have ladders in flats around here, I thought it would be funny to have everyone bring their ladders to the meadows at the same time.”
Sitting in the meadows, unaware of Ladder Fest, you can’t help but want to get involved. The echoes of whoops and claps as more and more ladders are carried across the grass, the gasps of shock as people use the ladders to climb to the tops of trees, although you may not believe it, the energy was electric and contagious. My friends Emma, Ellie and I got the opportunity to climb one of the tallest ladders there, allowing a new perspective on the festival and the meadows itself. Looking across at all the ladders, you develop an understanding that the majority of attendees do not care for the ladders, as much as they enjoy the social interaction the festival brings. It pulls together many different people and invites a lively conversation starter. Many of those we spoke to came with friends but some met up with people who they met at last years Ladder Fest.
Edinburgh is often rumoured for its hostility and lack of community, especially right in the centre. However, Ladder Fest has proved that the smallest thing such as a typical household item is enough to bring individuals together. If not to celebrate ladders, then to laugh at the randomness of the situation.
The festival goes on as long as the weather is nice, with ladder owners getting to sit on their ladders and have a drink and many other meadow goers being able to climb on the many ladders on offer. Ben, a Ladder Fest attendee, gathered a group of friends to go this year, bringing five ladders between them-
“There’s really not a space for this anywhere. I really think they’re innovating with a brand-new space where people can appreciate ladders. You go to any other city in the world, and I bet, you cannot find Ladder Fest, it’s completely unique.”
