Hawick Common Riding links the traditional riding of the town‘s lands with a commemoration of the callants, young Hawick lads who in 1514 routed English plunderers, capturing their flag. Records of the Common Riding principals go back to 1703.

Official proceedings begin on Thursday evening when in a ceremony of speech and song the Burgh Flag is bussed and entrusted to the Cornet. The next day bands, civic dignitaries and the mounted cavalcade process around the town. The Cornet with "the banner blue" leads his followers in the chase, a ride at full gallop, in memory of the victorious youths of 1514. The riding of the marches, horse racing and the dipping of the flag in the River Teviot follow.

Saturday events include the laying of the wreaths at the War Memorial, horse racing and professional games.