East Ayrshire is a vibrant part of south-west Scotland which is steeped in history and culture and has hosted a wide variety of highly successful events. Events are a great way of bringing people together to celebrate our diversity and heritage; from the Tour of Britain Cycle Race to the Cumnock Tryst and the Boswell Book Festival to the Global Market, East Ayrshire really is the perfect setting for them all.
Our Events Team is dedicated to providing information and support to assist organisers to plan and deliver successful and safe events. If you are considering hosting an event in East Ayrshire, whether it’s a small community gala day or a music festival, the resources provided on this page will help guide you through the process to ensure your event is planned and managed safely and legally.
Public entertainment licences
The Council’s Licensing Panel at its meeting on 21 November 2024 endorsed a minimum of 28 days for the lodgement of temporary Public Entertainment Licence applications. Circus and standalone funfairs still have a 90-day notice period.
In order to meet that timescale, applications must be received fully complete with all supporting documentation available for consideration by the consultees, so as to allow an adequate assessment of the event in terms of public safety.
Any applications lodged outwith the 28-day notice period, or lodged without the required documentation, will be returned to the applicant.
Where an application is lodged late due to unforeseen circumstances outwith the control of the applicant, the Chief Governance Officer may reserve the right to accept the late application, although this will be dependent on the application being accurately lodged with all supporting documents available and in date.
Late or incomplete applications may result in the event having to be cancelled or postponed.
Guidance and resources
Find guidance and resources on planning an event in East Ayrshire, including helpful documents, templates and useful contacts.
Apply to hold an event
Submit your online application to hold an event in East Ayrshire.
Frequently asked questions
Some of the most commonly asked questions on planning an event in East Ayrshire.