Recurrent Events/ FestivalsGigha Music Festival

[weetoon, 07.12.2007] Since 2001, Gigha has had its very own music festival in September which is always a sell-out event. CalMac (the name given in Scotland to Caledonian MacBrayne, the ferry company) puts on extra ferries and many people camp near the boathouse for the weekend to enjoy the traditional music on offer and soak up the unique atmosphere.

The day brings music, with usually the local pipe bands, but also other musicians from further afield. There are a number of stalls where one can buy produce or craft made locally, or enjoy a massage. Many people take advantage of the being on the island to go and visit the gardens.

The highlight of the festival is the Saturday night Ceilidh. I went to this a couple of time and really enjoyed the way everyone was made to feel welcome, particularly at the evening Ceilidh. The first part of the evening sees various acts performing in the village hall. This is where I discovered the beauty of Gaelic songs in which I had not taken a great interest before. There are still a number of people on Gigha who speak Gaelic. Then later, the chairs are put away and it's time for the dancing part of the evening. These are traditional Scottish dances, and amazingly everyone joins in, young and old. Young people learn the dances at school and are able to join in no problem. This is genuinely fun, and the atmosphere is fantastic. Places are very limited for this so if you want to go, keep checking the website. There is also a Ceilidh on the Friday, but I have not been to this, so I can't comment on it.

The Sunday, the festival is effectively over, but the party mood still reigns on the island, and there is usually a barbecue at the boathouse.

Great fun!