Plan your 2024 festival adventure - Your ultimate guide to festivals, events and concerts across the west coast in 2024.

The Fèis movement

 

Fèisean nan Gàidheal was established in 1991 as the independent umbrella association of the Fèis movement, which has played a vital role in the revival of traditional music and Gaelic language in Scotland.

 

Fèisean nan Gàidheal passionately fosters Gaelic arts throughout Scotland, positively impacting over 6,000 young individuals a year. Through engaging activities like traditional music workshops and cultural events, they provide a platform for young people to connect with their heritage and express themselves creatively. This impactful work not only enriches the lives of the youth involved, but also contributes to the preservation of Scotland’s unique cultural identity.

 

Among the events it sponsors, Fèisean nan Gàidheal delivers the annual Blas Festival, in partnership with The Highland Council, and supports Fèisean, which organise Cèilidh Trails, enabling young people to play to a audiences of thousands each year. Drama work is also a feature of their programme, with plays that tour schools, a Gaelic pantomime and a Gaelic Drama Summer School each year.  And at 5 Latha, held in the Isle of Lewis, teenagers will undertake a range of activities through the medium of Gaelic.

Food, Glorious Food (and drink!)

 

Embark on a tantalizing gastronomic adventure

 

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local flavours at the mouth-watering festivals and culinary themed events throughout the Highlands and Islands in 2024.

 

Embrace unique drink experiences, whether it’s enjoying a tasting session at the Hebridean Whisky Festival or savouring artisanal cheeses at the Argyll Food Festival to indulging in the catch of the day at the Tarbert Seafood Festival, there’s a plethora of delectable experiences waiting for you. Explore the diverse culinary landscape that the Highlands and Islands have to offer, while you discover the true essence of a food adventure. From cookery demonstrations and tasty local food vendors to kids’ activities and farmers markets, relish a wide range of epicurean delights while you enjoy all the amazing arts and culture of the Highlands and Islands.

 

Family Friendly Festival Fun!

We are family

 

Why not load up the entire clan for one of the Highlands & Islands fantastic family friendly festivals? It’s the perfect way to get in some QFT- Quality Family Time. More and more festivals are catering for everyone in the family, from petting zoos and rides to face painting and kids’ corners. Take advantage of the summer vibes with your family and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime! Read on for our parent proof festival advice and checklist.

 

Involve the kids

 

Let everyone help with the festival prep and have a say on which acts and activities they want to prioritise. You’ll never make everyone happy, but maybe Mum and Dad can divide and conquer to accommodate different interests without running everyone ragged. Add a bit of festival magic and crank the fun right up to 11- think bubbles, face paint, glow sticks, wings or even full on fancy dress costumes.

 

Survival gear

 

Even if you are not camping overnight, some ‘nice to haves’ but real family festival savers for us include a sun and rain shelter or a compact tent, a portable loo, a cooler with kid friendly snacks and plenty of water. A camping trolley not only wheels your stuff between the car and your pitch, but also doubles as a cradle- how handy!

 

Pitch perfect

 

Get to the festival super early so you can get a prime spot and get set up. Look for something that is far enough away from the stage and loos that the kids won’t be caught in the crush or blasted by loud music. If there is a VIP or family area, we always take advantage- a bit of convenience and fewer crowds are worth a few extra quid.

 

Hope for the best, but prepare

 

Tag the wee ones with a wristband that has your mobile number on it and agree on an emergency meeting place for everyone just in case you get separated. Point out what the event staff is wearing should anyone need help. If possible, stick a unique tall flag at your pitch so you can see it from afar. And remember, safety first, so be sure to pack prescription medicines, sunscreen and a basic first aid kit.

 

 

 

Family Friendly Festival Checklist

• Baby supplies, including extra wipes
• Snacks and water
• Ear defenders for the kids
• Extra change of clothes
• Raincoats and wellies
• Sun cream
• Midge spray
• First aid kit and prescription medicines
• Fold up chairs or blankets

Camping - unleash your inner wild spirit!

 

Experience the ultimate fusion of music and nature by camping at a festival this season. You’ll unleash your inner wild spirit and create unforgettable memories! Being prepared is the key to a successful outdoor adventure, so we asked veteran campers their best tips for a fantastic festival experience.

 

Top gear

 

Upgrade your camping experience with top-notch essentials. Invest in a durable tent that can withstand different weather conditions, a cosy sleeping bag and torches. It’s vital to pack efficiently for easy mobility, so take only the essentials. Sunscreen, midge spray and wellies are a must, as are a good sleeping mat, pillow, earplugs and an eye mask. Pack eco friendly baby wipes and bags for wet clothes and shoes, and a portable charger to keep your devices powered up for the duration. Even in the heat of summer, take a fleece or rainproof layer just in case, you know, the changeable Scottish weather!

 

Perfect pitch

 

You have to get to a festival early to grab the choicest spot. Look for level ground, not too close to the stage, toilets or the food stalls. If you can, form a circle with some festival buddies so that your tents face each other. This will discourage folks from wandering through your camp. Personalise your tent area with fairy lights, bunting or a colourful flag so you can find it in the sea of tents. And if you are using a new tent, practice setting it up at home a few times to avoid faffing like a fud when you should be having fun!

 

Eat smart

 

For us, the delicious fare is the best part of any festival. Burgers, beer, ice cream, and even those legendary deep-fried Mars bars- we can’t wait to indulge in our favourite Scottish food and drink. But you may want to bring some of your own snacks to save money. Just be sure that hot foods stay hot and cold food stay cold to avoid an unpleasant case of food poisoning. Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated- topping up at a tap will save you ££ on bottle water, while saving the environment.

 

 

Be safe

 

Before using portable grills at festivals, always refer to the site’s safety guidelines to make sure they allow them. Be careful and never leave a fire unattended, and make sure to completely douse it before you go to sleep. And remember, mixing alcohol and sun can be dangerous, so stay safe and hydrated. Remember to secure your belongings to prevent any thievery. A bum bag is perfect for keeping your wallet and valuables safe while you dance the night away.

 

Plan Your Festival Adventure...

 

I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)

 

Nothing says summer like a road trip, and going up the country to one of the Highlands and Islands vibrant festivals is the ultimate road trip- and luckily you won’t have to go 500 miles to find one! 
               It’s time to start prepping now for the 2024 festival season. From bagging you VIP access tickets to scoring a sweet spot to lay your head when you’re all danced out, don’t wait until it’s too late. Just follow our insider tips and you won’t get caught out!

 

I’m On My Way

 

If you are motoring to the festival, when you book your tickets, also check out the parking situation. Is it free or is there a cost? Do you need to download a parking pass beforehand? Is there a shuttle bus service? And it’s always best to find or offer a ride share if possible to reduce petrol use, plus reduce traffic on ferries and on those narrow Highland roads.

 

At the End of the Line

 

Public transport is the best and most environmentally way to travel, just be sure to book early, whether on ScotRail, West Coast Motors or Citylink. If your journey involves CalMac or Western Ferries, it’s imperative that you book early, even if you’re a foot passenger. Some ferries are so small that you just turn up and pay cash on board. Be prepared to wait, but it’s a great way to make new pals.

 

Another Sunny Day

 

Accommodation starts selling out for next year the day after this year’s festival is over, so whether a campground, self-catering, hostel or hotel, book ASAP. Camping is a great way to do a festival, but you can’t just rock up anywhere. Some festivals offer tent and motorhome/campervan pitch tickets that you will need to book advance. Be sure to support the community by shopping at homegrown businesses for food and supplies, where you will find friendly service and banter, along with the best local goodies.

 

Get these great events and festivals on your diary date list!

BID4Oban - bringing you a range of events this year
Our bustling town has something for everyone in 2024 as we welcome back visitors from far and near. Festival season is fast approaching and we have a fantastic line up for you including the Clipper Round The world 2024.
For the latest news Bid 4 Oban Events

Cantilena Festival on Islay
7 – 12 July 2024
Every July the beautiful Hebridean island of Islay is home to Cantilena’s professional musicians and students of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland who together bring their unique sound of chamber music to residents and visitors.

• Sunday 7 July / Islay Gaelic Centre / 7:30pm
• Monday 8 July / Ballygrant Community Hall / 7:30pm
• Tuesday 9 July / Laphroaig / 7:30pm
• Wednesday 10 July / Islay Gaelic Centre / 7:30pm
• Thursday 11 July / Ardbeg / 7:30pm
• Friday 12 July / Bruichladdich Village Hall / 7:30pm

For more info: Cantilena Festival website 

Ceòlas Summer School
7th to Friday 12th July
Giving young fiddle players and pipers the chance to learn with the finest musicians, in an immersive environment surrounded by music, Gaelic, song and dance in South Uist.
Places will go very quickly so get booking at www.ceolas.co.uk . If you have any questions, please contact us at info@ceolas.co.uk or by calling 01851770711.
Visit the CEOLAS Summer School website 

Royal National MOD Oban
11 to 19 October 2024
Scotland’s premiere celebration of Gaelic language and culture returns to its birthplace of Oban in 2024.
Find out more at Royal National Mod Oban website 

Cowal Highland Gathering
29 to 31 August 2024
The Cowal Highland Gathering, or Cowal Games as it is commonly known locally, has grown to become a major international event, attracting visitors and competitors from all over the world.
Find out more at Cowal Gathering website

Argyll Food Festival
28 & 29 September 2024
On at the Corran Halls, this will  be a weekend of amazing food, drink and entertainment where you will also learn new skills at workshops.
For more information or to be involved contact amanda@foodfromargll.com or follow us on
’Food from Argyll’ Facebook page

FynesFest

31 may to 2 June 2024
FyneFest is an award-winning, family-friendly beer, food and music festival set in the stunning surroundings of Glen Fyne.
For more information and to book tickets visit Fynefest website 

Helensburgh Festivals
There are lots of events on throughout the year including concerts, lectures, film shows, and so much more – see the What’s On Calendar ) for all the latest events.
destinationhelensburgh.org/

Islay Book Festival
29 August to 1 September 2024
An event that brings a colourful mix of authors, poets, and storytellers to the Hebrides
Please visit our Islay Book Festival website and sign up to our newsletter for our

announcement about event timings, locations and ticketing in due course.

Loch Shiel Festival
1 to 5 May 2024
One of the most interesting and inspiring chamber music festivals in Scotland.
To find out more and book, please visit the Loch Shiel Festival website  

Markie’s Music Festival
28 to 30 June 2024
One of the most popular live music events on Scotland’s calendar.
Free to attend, for more information visit Markie Dans website 

North West Mull Easter Art Event
29th March - 1st April 2024
Over 16 artists showing in 9 studios over the north west of Mull. An opportunity to meet local artists in their place of work.

Visit the Facebook page for more information

Tarbert Loch Fyne Festivals
Hosting up to ten events a year, Tarbert is a real festival hotspot. Whether you’re a sailor, music lover, a passionate foodie or are looking for some great family entertainment, you’ll find it all in Tarbert.
For more information on this years events visit the Tarbert Festivals website

The George Hotel - Inveraray Festivals
All summer long
Six totally unique, free entry, family and dog friendly music festivals throughout the year starting with including Bluebell festival 25th to 26th May.
For more information visit www.thegeorgehotel.co.uk/festivals

Festival and Events Diary 2024

 

Loch Lomond Springfest,......…………………………....Loch Lomond Shores, 6 - 7 April 2024

Scotland’s Wild Medicine Festival, ………………………………...Tarbert, Argyll, 12 April 2024

Carradale Music Festival,....................................……..….……...Carradale, 19 - 20 April 2024

North Lorn Drama Festival, ………………………………………….…Appin, 24 – 26 April 2024

Mull Music Festival Tobermory,..................………….…….........Isle of Mull, 26 - 28 April 2024

Colonsay Book Festival,..................……………....….Isle of Colonsay, 27 April - 28 April 2024

Highlands & Islands Music and Dance Festival,…..…………..............Oban, 3 - 5th May 2024

Colonsay Spring Festival,.…………………………….Isle of Colonsay, 29 April – 12 May 2024

Loch Shiel Spring Festival,.............……………..….......various locations, 1 May – 5 May 2024

UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup............................………Fort William, 3 - 5 May 2024

Lorn Drama Festival,......................…………...…..Corran Halls, Oban, 11 May - 13 May 2024
Helensburgh Beer & Gin Festival,.……………………………….Helensburgh, 17-18 May 2024

Campbeltown Malts Festival,........………………….........…...Campbeltown, 20 - 25 May 2024

Helensburgh Food & Drink Festival,..........................................Helensburgh, 25-26 May 2024

The Bluebell Festival,……………………………………….………..Inveraray, 26 - 27 May 2024
Scottish Series,................................……….Based around Loch Fyne, 24 May - 27 May 2024

Islay Festival of Music & Malt Isles of Islay & Jura,……………...............24 May - 1 June 2024

FyneFest Glen Fyne,……….................................................. Inveraray, 31 May - 2 June 2024
Helensburgh Highland Games,........................................................Helensburgh, 1 June 2024

10 under the Ben,.........………………..........................Nevis Range Fort William, 8 June 2024

Kintyre Songwriters Festival,......................………………........Campbeltown, 7 - 9 June 2024

Sound of Gigha Festival,………………………...………………....Isle of Gigha 7 – 9 June 2024
Cove & Kilcreggan 10K, …………………………………………..Cove Burgh Hall, 9 June 2024

Oban International Shanty Festival,……………………………………Oban, 21 – 23 June 2024

Sound of Iona Music Festival,…………………………………....Isle of Iona, 21 – 23 June 2024
Helensburgh Midsummer Festival, ………………………………….Helensburgh, 22 June 2024

Markie Dans Music Festival, .....................................………….……... Oban, 28-30 June 2024
Dr Hips Garden Party,.…………………………………...…………...….Inveraray, 30 June 2024
Luss Highland Games, …………………………………………………………...Luss, 6 July 2024

Tarbert Seafood Festival, ........................................……………….......Tarbert, 6 - 7 July 2024

Loch Lomond Summerfest………………………………..Loch Lomond Shores 6 – 7 July 2024

Cantilena Festival, .........................………………....................... Isle of Islay, 7 - 12 July 2024

Ceòlas Uibhist,..................................................…………………....South Uist, 7 - 12 July 2024

Tiree Music Festival, .....................................…………….....….Isle of Tiree, 12 - 14 July 2024
Clipper round the world race,...............................................................Oban, 12 - 21 July 2024

Inveraray Blues Festival,………………………………..………………....Inveraray, 13 July 2024

Helensburgh Summer Gala Day & Dog Show,................................Helensburgh, 27 July 2024

West Highland Yachting Week,.........……………......... various sites, 27 July – 2 August 2024

The Loch Fyne Hoolie,.………………………………….…...…………....Inveraray, 28 July 2024

Rock the Loch,…………………………………………………….....…Inveraray, 10 August 2024
Kilberry Sportive Loop,..........................................................…………………..10 August 2024

Art Map Argyll, ........................................……….....various open studios,17 - 26 August 2024

MOKfest, Mull of Kintyre Music Festival,...………………...Campbeltown, 21 - 25 August 2024

Disconnect Festival ……………………..………………………..Inveraray, 24 - 25 August 2024

Cowal Highland Gathering, .......................…………...................Dunoon, 29 - 31 August 2024

Islay Book Festival,………………………………………...Islay, 29 August – 1 September 2024

The World Stone Skimming Championships,………………Easdale Island, 7 September 2024

Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival……………………………………....7 – 8 September 2024

Mendelssohn on Mull .............................…………………..Isle of Mull, 8 - 12 September 2024

Motorfest, ……………………………………………………………………….15 September 2024

Ceòl Cholasa, ..................................………….........Isle of Colonsay, 19 - 22 September 2024

Lochaber Live, …………………………………………….Fort William, 20 – 22 September 2024

Sea Change Film Festival, ……………………………....Isle of Tiree, 20 – 22 September 2024

Tarbert Music Festival, ............................................………..Tarbert, 20 - 22 September 2024

Lagavulin Jazz Festival, ........................................…….Isle of Islay, 20 – 22 September 2024

Jura Music Festival, ...............………………...................Isle of Jura, 27 - 29 September 2024

Feis na Mara, ………………………………………………………....Arisaig, 4 – 5 October 2024

Colonsay Autumn Food & Drink Festival, ........………..Isle of Colonsay, 9 – 23 October 2024

Royal National Mod………………………………Various venues, Oban, 11 – 19 October 2024

Beatson’s Mully Rally, ………………………………………...Isle of Mull, 11 – 13 October 2024

Tiree Wave Classic, ………………………………………….Isle of Tiree, 12 – 18 October 2024

Helensburgh Fireworks Night,.................................................Helensburgh, 3 November 2024

Oban Winter Festival, .............................................…………..,Oban, 15 – 24 November 2024

Helensburgh Festive Lights Switch-On & Market, ………….Helensburgh, 23 November 2024

Cove & Kilcreggan Book Festival, …………………....Cove Burgh Hall, 23-24 November 2024

Helensburgh Winter Festival & Santa Dash, ………………... 30 November-1 December 2024

Loch Lomond Christmas Festival,……………………………………….....7 – 8 December 2024

Tarbert Book Festival, ........................…………………………..Tarbert, Loch Fyne, TBC 2024

Loch Fyne Viking Festival, ..................................................………………..Tarbert, Date TBC

Tarbert Traditional Boat Festival, ........................……………...Tarbert, Loch Fyne, Date TBC

Tarbert Fair………………………………………………………………………..Tarbert, Date TBC

CHECK OUT THE FULL FESTIVALS GUIDE - FREE DOWNLOAD HERE

PLEASE CHECK THESE EVENTS ARE STILL TAKING PLACE, OR HAVE TICKETS AVAILABLE BEFORE LEAVING HOME.

 

Please get in touch with us via our contact form if you know that any of these events have been cancelled and should be removed from the list.

HAVE FUN, STAY SAFE!
And leave no trace! Remember to pick up your rubbish and bin it or take it home.