The List celebrates 40 years championing arts and culture scene
The List, Scotland's guide to what's on in arts, culture and entertainment, is celebrating its 40th birthday in October.
Article Source: The List
Last Updated: 30 September 2025 13:37
Since the first issue hit the shelves on Friday 4 October 1985, The List has been at the heart of Scotland’s cultural conversation, covering music, art, theatre, film, food and drink, and more.
For four decades, The List has spotlighted and supported arts and culture across Scotland, helping audiences discover the very best of what’s happening locally while giving vital exposure to emerging artists and championing established names. Known for its extensive festival coverage, event listings, features and interviews, the magazine (together with its website) has played a key role in documenting and shaping the cultural identity of Edinburgh, Glasgow and the nation as a whole.
As part of its anniversary celebrations, The List will be looking back at landmark moments from the past 40 years and catching up with some familiar faces.
A special anniversary edition will be published on Wednesday 1 October, featuring recollections from past editors and contributors, a spotlight on some of our most memorable features, a ‘where are they now?’ section on some of the most famous List alumni, an exploration on our wildly varying (and sometimes controversial) covers, a discussion of the saucier side of the mag, plus an article from writer Carol Main who has been a regular contributor since the very first issue.
As well as this special issue, we’ll continue our celebrations with an exclusive birthday party at Summerhall, and we’ll be publishing our various reminiscences online throughout October.
Sheri Friers, CEO of The List said: ‘It’s incredible that The List has prevailed all this time since 1985. Over four tumultuous decades, we’ve been at the vanguard of the country’s arts and culture scene, shining a spotlight on new faces and championing the nation’s best talent. We’re so excited to celebrate our past, and we look forward to the next 40 years and beyond.’
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