Everyone Blames The Weather is a festival at Timespan centred on migrant labour and seasonal work, foregrounding the conditions, knowledge, and dignity of those who sustain the agricultural sector  in Scotland and the UK.

Part of the public programme of As Long As it Yields, by José García Oliva, and developed in close dialogue with the artist, the festival builds on the exhibition’s enquiry into how seasonal labour is organised, experienced, and rendered invisible. It traces how responsibility for exploitation is distributed across supply chains, from employers and agencies to retailers and consumers, and considers the implications for rights and working conditions.

Over the weekend, Everyone Blames The Weather brings together unions, migrant workers, academics, and artists through talks, discussions, and film screenings, alongside shared moments including dance workshops, live music, a community meal, an evening barbecue, workshops, and a midsummer bonfire.

Taking place at the summer solstice, when agricultural cycles intensify, the festival connects labour to seasonal time and to the rhythms of land and place, offering a moment to gather, listen, and reflect together.

The title is drawn from García Oliva’s environmental installation on Timespan’s façade, reflecting how weather is often used to justify disruption, while responsibility for risk and loss is shifted onto workers.

The festival continues Timespan’s programme of seasonal gatherings, including Salt and Silver in 2025 (curated by Joanne Coates and part of the public programme of the exhibition Red Herring), Becoming Futures in 2024 (curated by Almare), and the Eastre Weekend in 2023.

All festival activities are free. Helmsdale is especially busy at this time of year; early booking of accommodation is recommended. Two travel and accommodation bursaries for low income participants will be announced, supporting wider access to the Highlands.