Skye Live Festival

Doune the Rabbit Hole

Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival

Underneath the Stars Festival

From 19 January to 5 February 2023, Glasgow's annual folk, roots, and world music festival invite over 2,100 musicians from around the globe for eighteen days of spectacular celebration. Revel in live concerts and ceilidhs, explore talks on intricate topics and search out art exhibitions or workshops. Also, there are free events available for everyone to attend!As Creative Director, Donald Shaw has the opportunity to curate over 300 events of various genres. The festival is renowned for its unique ability to bring together one-off lineups and create unprecedented collaborative shows. After a night full of wonderful music, artists gather at Festival Club, where legendary performances take place, as well as spontaneous sessions that often go late into the night.In 2015, the festival was recognized with a prestigious Art and Culture Award at the Inspiring City Awards ceremony. Hosted by The Herald in partnership with the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and People Make Glasgow, these awards recognize those contributing to making Glasgow an amazing city.

Celtic Connections

Reconvene on the Isle of Skye this coming May to experience a memorable getaway at the gorgeous Skye Live Festival. The festival is located in Portree, on Am Meall, known locally as The Lump, which boasts an exquisite view of Cuillin Ridge and the Old Man of Storr. For over 100 years now, it has been home to the captivating Highland Games, making it one of the most beautiful places to attend a festival worldwide! Don't miss out on your chance for some blissful music and incredible scenery—join this festivity on Friday, May 12th, and Saturday, May 13th, 2023! Escape and dance freely! An array of delectable culinary delights and refreshing drinks will be available for purchase, so there's something for everyone. Plus, get ready to groove with Peat & Diesel, DLÙ, The Langan Band, and Claire Hastings—just a few of the talented artists joining you at this event! There is no need to fret; the campsite lies just a short 15-20 minute stroll away from the festival grounds.

For thirty-eight glorious years, the Orkney Folk Festival has been a beacon of light across Scotland, the UK, and beyond. Just over a dozen individuals in total make up this volunteer committee. Still, their sheer dedication brings together such an incredible event every May, with many more joining them to offer assistance during those crucial weeks leading up to the festival. Since its inception in 1982, networking between artists and the audience has always been at the forefront of what this special occasion is all about; ultimately creating an atmosphere that provides something unique for everybody involved. Rewind back to the early eighties; Orkney was facing a downturn in both tourism and traditional music. Tourist numbers were diminishing, leading to an urgent need for increased visitor traffic during months such as late spring that had previously been quiet so the industry could become more viable. Also, folk music had fallen out of fashion among younger generations. Therefore, it was essential for change to take place for these industries to survive and flourish again. The first festival laid the foundation for what has now become a highly-anticipated event amongst artists worldwide. It is primarily the homegrown Orcadian acts that make this festival unique and keeps attendees coming back time after time. This balance between local talent and visiting performers remains one of the most critical components to ensuring its continued success today. Each year, more and more people flock to Stromness and the isles for the festival. It's an atmosphere of music, warmth, and camaraderie; many return yearly! Musicians worldwide join in on their instruments as dancers gracefully move around them. But not everyone at this gathering is a performer; there are plenty of others who come to bask in its festive spirit too! May 25–28, 2023, will mark the 40th Orkney Folk Festival! Get ready to hear music from around the globe as 24 talented acts perform on stage. You really do not want to miss out on a night of superb entertainment from artists based in America and Canada to Scandinavia and Ireland—not forgetting the Orcadian talent returning home for this spectacular anniversary event. Hot Club of Cowtown, cellist Eric Wright, Cape Breton fiddler Mairi Rankin, Elephant Sessions, Breabach, Mo Kenney, and Kinnaris Quintet are performing.

Orkney Folk Festival

The 26th Hebridean Celtic Festival (HebCelt) is just around the corner! Get ready for four days of fantastic music and entertainment from the 12th to the 15th of July, 2023. HebCelt has been a staple in the cultural landscape of Outer Hebrides since 1996, having won countless awards along its journey.Stornoway, Lewis, is the picturesque home of this renowned global event. Not only is it a vibrant place where Gaelic language and culture thrive, but its friendly atmosphere created by an extraordinary team of volunteers makes it all the more inviting. This festival has a universal appeal that resonates with locals and visitors alike.HebCelt Festival faithfully safeguards and encourages its culture, featuring the traditional Gaelic music integral to their past and present. Their lineup of musicians ranges from renowned local artists to veteran Scottish, UK, and global talent that performs a mix of modern tunes as well as cultural classics tailored for all ages. With an assortment of sights and sounds deeply rooted in Celtic customs yet open-minded enough to new influences, HebCelt is sure to offer something special every time!

HebCelt Festival

Come to Moray this summer to experience the best Celtic music at Speyfest 2023! From July 21st - 23rd, Speyfest will feature concerts, ceilidhs, stomps, fairs, and workshops. This festival promises an unforgettable weekend in Fochabers – see you there!James M Alexander established the festival in 1995 after performing with the Fochabers Fiddlers and several prominent Scottish trad bands. After recognizing the ideal of a destination Fochabers was for featuring traditional music, dance, and crafts during summertime events, James decided to use his powers to encourage and provide a platform where driving young musicians can spread their wings and learn from renowned artists. For the past quarter of a century, Speyfest has been captivating crowds and growing in size. From its humble beginnings as a village tent hosting 300 people to 1,500 visitors annually, this festival is for every age group - from toddlers to grandparents! Celebrating 26 spectacular years of music and fun at Speyfest this year, it is ecstatic to have Skerryvore, Mànran, and Siobhan Miller perform, amongst many other notable acts! Don't miss out on an incredible celebration!

Speyfest

Each August, the vibrant city of Lorient in Brittany, France, comes alive with a kaleidoscope of Celtic culture. Established in 1971 by Polig and now known as the Festival Interceltique de Lorient, this event celebrates all Celtic, including music, dance, painting, photography, theatre, sculpture, traditional artisanry, sports, and gastronomy. Experience a unique journey into centuries-old customs during an unforgettable celebration you'll never forget!Festival Interceltique de Lorient is a renowned celebration that celebrates all genres of music from Celtic countries, including traditional tunes, folk, rock, and jazz. This vibrant event brings together musicians from diverse cultures to represent an open-minded identity with constantly evolving ideas. Music isn't the only feature. In addition to impressive performances, you can also enjoy cinematic shows, visual arts displays, and literary readings.During the ten-day festival, visitors get to bask in the music that reverberates throughout the city and professional dance performances of Celtic, Breton, Irish and Scottish styles. Furthermore, spontaneous dances by locals and tourists often break out on the streets! Additionally, concerts with traditional musical instruments are held within covered halls throughout the event.

Festival Interceltique de Lorient

The Gathering 2025 is set to be a captivating event in Inverness, United Kingdom, drawing together people from all walks of life to celebrate culture, music, and community. Taking place in the stunning Scottish Highlands, this festival promises a unique blend of activities that showcase the region&rsquo;s rich heritage while embracing contemporary artistic expressions. As the festival approaches, excitement is building for an experience that is sure to leave lasting memories.
<h3>A Diverse Musical Lineup</h3>
One of the standout features of The Gathering is its diverse musical lineup, which offers something for every taste. Attendees can look forward to an impressive array of performances that span genres such as folk, rock, pop, and traditional Scottish music. The festival will host a variety of talented artists, both local and international, ensuring that the atmosphere is vibrant and dynamic. The beautiful outdoor settings of Inverness serve as the perfect backdrop for these performances, allowing festival-goers to enjoy live music surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
<h3>Celebrating Scottish Culture</h3>
The Gathering is deeply rooted in Scottish culture, making it a celebration of local traditions and heritage. From ceilidh dancing to storytelling sessions, the festival highlights the rich history of the Highlands. Attendees can participate in workshops that teach traditional crafts, music, and dance, providing a hands-on approach to experiencing Scottish culture. This immersion fosters a sense of community and connection among festival-goers, creating an environment where everyone can learn and appreciate the unique customs of the region.
<h3>Culinary Delights to Savor</h3>
Food lovers will delight in the culinary offerings at The Gathering, which features a range of stalls and vendors showcasing local and regional cuisine. From hearty Scottish dishes like haggis and neeps to sweet treats such as tablet and shortbread, the festival celebrates the flavors of Scotland. Many vendors focus on using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is fresh and bursting with flavor. The festival also caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.
<h3>Family-Friendly Fun</h3>
The Gathering is designed to be a family-friendly festival, welcoming attendees of all ages to partake in the festivities. Special areas for children will feature engaging activities such as face painting, crafts, and interactive games, allowing young ones to unleash their creativity. The emphasis on family ensures that parents can relax and enjoy the event while their children are entertained. This inclusive atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and community, making it a wonderful outing for families looking to create cherished memories together.
<h3>An Artistic Showcase</h3>
In addition to its musical performances, The Gathering offers a vibrant arts and crafts showcase. Local artists will display their work, ranging from paintings and sculptures to handmade jewelry and textiles. Attendees can stroll through art installations and even purchase unique pieces to take home as souvenirs. The festival also hosts workshops where participants can learn various artistic techniques, encouraging creativity and self-expression among festival-goers. This celebration of the arts enhances the overall experience and showcases the talent that thrives within the Highland community.
<h3>Commitment to Sustainability</h3>
The Gathering is committed to promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility. The festival organizers implement eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction, recycling initiatives, and the use of biodegradable materials. Festival-goers are encouraged to participate in these efforts, fostering a collective responsibility for protecting the beautiful landscapes of Inverness. This commitment not only enhances the festival experience but also sets a positive example for future events, ensuring that the stunning Highlands remain pristine for generations to come.
<h3>Join the Celebration at The Gathering 2025</h3>
As the date for The Gathering 2025 approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration in Inverness. With its incredible musical lineup, delicious culinary offerings, and engaging activities, the festival invites you to immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of culture and community. Gather your friends and family, and prepare for a weekend filled with music, laughter, and connection. The Gathering is your chance to experience the magic of the Scottish Highlands and be part of a celebration that truly showcases the best of this beautiful region. Don&rsquo;t miss out on this extraordinary festival experience!

Kinnaris Quintet

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