LANARK LANIMER DAY
An ancient celebration held within the Royal Burgh of Lanark on the Thursday between the Sixth and Twelfth days of June annually since the year 1140.
 

True Or False!

I used to think that Lanimers belonged to Lanark and unless you were a Lanarkian you could not join in!

One true - the other false!

Lanimers and Lanark do go together like bread and butter and that is good because Lanark is proud of Lanimers and rightly so - to keep the traditions, to honour the memories, to value the people and very important, the involvement of the whole town in a week of festivity and fun.

But anyone can join in and every year more and more do so. The welcome is fantastic. I write not only as an incomer to Lanarkshire but not even living in Lanark. Not only did I receive a great welcome but more kisses and good wishes than on all my birthdays put together!

What else would you say but 'Happy Lanimers' and everybody really means it. From the Sunday - The Kirkin' of the Cornet right through to the end of the Thursday itself, truly it is indeed a happy time. For the last two years at least, even the sun has shone when required.

As an incomer and newcomer, I am most impressed by two things:- the organisation. It seems that the various tasks are shared out and all done cheerfully and in time for all the events. Maybe practice makes perfect but behind the scene there must be much planning and probably not a little panic as deadlines come (and possibly go) so that all seems smooth on the day. Everybody helps even up to the ladies-in-their-hats moving the benches after the crowning ceremony in such a professional way so that not one child is able to get confused or lost.

My second observation is co-operation because everyone wants the day to go well, all do their part. There are few events today in which the whole family is involved and participating, all generations doing their bit, encouraging one another, and sharing in success and fun. Sadly today the value of the family is demoted, played down and considered old fashion. What a tragedy and what a disaster but in Lanark the whole town-family share the excitement and fun and memories are recalled for years to come.

I know no other place where there is such a week of celebration and almost a year of preparation. In this changing world don't change Lanimers - some traditions and habits are good and useful.

So Lanarkians and incomers alike get involved, take part and enjoy yourselves.

Happy Lanimers to one and all.

Rev. Susan Cowell