Music & Events - Ceòl is Tachartasan

Hebridean Celtic Festival - Fèis Cheiltach Innse Gall

Location, location, location and err... music, this Festival has it all; the misty shores of the Outer Hebrides, the sea, the sand, the standing stones and some of the best music you've ever heard. Although a relatively new event, since its inception in 1995, this vibrant and diverse gathering has become one of the most eagerly awaited attractions on the Celtic music calendar.

Taking place in mid July, the Festival boasts one of the largest venues in the north of Scotland. The large marquee, capable of accommodating up to 5000, is located in the scenic grounds of Lews Castle, Stornoway and plays host to the supercharged late night shows.

Previous artists include a true cross section of contemporary and traditional Celtic music from the likes of the mighty Runrig, Capercaillie and La Bottine Souriante, the fine tradition of the Alasdair Fraser, Natalie McMaster, Sharon Shannon, Davy Spillane and Dougie MacLean; the world influences of Afro Celt Sound System, Baka Beyond; Celtic fusion from Martyn Bennet, Tartan Amoebas and The Peatbog Faeries and some of the finest exponents of the Gaelic tradition, Cliar, Mackenzie, Maggie MacInnes, Alyth McCormack and Anna Murray.

The unique location, the friendly island welcome, and fantastically enthusiastic audiences make this festival one of the most appealing to artists. Following their appearance at Festival 2001, world musicians Afro Celt Sound System, developed a soft spot for the warm island welcome, vowing to come back. Cape Breton Islander's The Barra MacNeils and younger siblings Slàinte Mhath have found themselves quite at home and La Bottine Souriante from Quebec couldn't resist making a return visit. Larger than life front man, Yves Lambert, raves about the place, 'Ah... the castle, the tent, the people!'

Outside the central marquee you'll find a host of events taking place all over the island, catering for a variety of tastes both musical and otherwise. Workshops often given by many of the Festival's performers can be found alongside lectures and children's entertainment. Numerous pub sessions in Stornoway and the surrounding area also add flavour to both the music and the setting.

Drawing a diverse audience from many parts of the world, this Festival is not simply one of the most exciting events in the Hebrides' calendar - it is an event of international repute, playing a crucial role in the preservation and development of the rich culture of Celtic music that is the heritage of an international community.

Come and join us! Find out more and get your tickets on the Hebridean Celtic Festival web site...