Ever wondered why so many Glaswegians vanish come mid-July?
Each year, the city pauses for Fair Fortnight, a festival tradition dating back to 1190, when Bishop Jocelin secured an eight-day market charter from King William the Lion.
Originally held within the old town walls, it began as a practical livestock fair, then by Victorian times evolved into a working-class holiday “doon the watter,” with factories shutting so families could head to the Firth of Clyde or Ayrshire coast.
Though modern leave policies and around-the-clock services mean fewer full-city shutdowns, Glaswegians still mark the second half of July as their annual pause, a summer-time legacy to that medieval market charter.
While the exact bank-holiday dates have shifted with time, Fair Fortnight remains a fixture on Glasgow’s calendar. Many firms now stagger leave, but you’ll still spot quieter streets, buzzing local green spaces, and families enjoying community events, proof that the spirit of that original charter remains in 21st-century Glasgow.
Why Holiday Cover Matters
Whether you run a busy office, a bustling warehouse, or a fast-moving production facility, maintaining service levels, even through Fair Fortnight, is key to customer satisfaction, production goals and project momentum.
Our Commercial Team specialises in temporary cover for reception, customer service, and admin roles, as well as Sales & Marketing, HR and Accountancy and Finance, keeping your business seamless when staff are away.
Reach out to Linda Hunter for bespoke office-support solutions. linda.hunter@escaperecruitment.com | 07557 116134
Meanwhile, our Industrial Team provides skilled temps in warehousing, forklift operation, packing, and general labour to keep your production lines and logistics on track throughout the summer.
Connect with Cheryl Sweeten to discuss flexible industrial staffing for the holiday period. cheryl.sweeten@escaperecruitment.com | 07585 334 140
This Fair Fortnight, don’t let key roles fall through the cracks, our teams have you covered so you can enjoy the summer break as much as your employees do.
Sources: Wikipedia, Glasgow Times