Feis Rois Festival

Ullapool, a charming village situated in the northwest Highlands of Scotland, is home to the annual Feis Rois festival. This lively event, which takes place every year in May, celebrates traditional Scottish music and culture. The festival is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, offering a unique opportunity to experience the rich heritage of the Scottish Highlands.

During the festival, Ullapool comes alive with the sounds of fiddles, bagpipes, and Gaelic singing. The event features a diverse range of performances, workshops, and activities for people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious beginner, Feis Rois offers something for everyone. From traditional ceilidhs to contemporary concerts, the festival showcases the best of Scottish music and culture.

The festival has its roots in the Feis movement, which began in the Outer Hebrides in the 1940s. The movement aimed to promote traditional music, dance, and language among young people in rural areas. In 1986, the first Feis Rois festival was held in Ullapool, and it has been a fixture of the town's cultural calendar ever since. The festival was founded by local musicians and enthusiasts who wanted to create a space for traditional music and Gaelic language to flourish.

Over the years, the Feis Rois festival has grown in size and popularity, attracting musicians and visitors from all over Scotland and beyond. The festival now features a diverse range of workshops, concerts, and performances, showcasing the best of traditional music and Gaelic culture. The festival has also expanded its reach beyond Ullapool, with satellite events held in other parts of Scotland and even internationally. Despite its growth, the Feis Rois festival remains true to its roots, promoting traditional music and culture while providing a platform for young musicians and artists to develop their skills.

The Feis Rois festival has a significant impact on the local economy of Ullapool. The festival attracts a large number of visitors each year, which leads to an increase in demand for local goods and services. Local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops benefit from the increased footfall during the festival. The festival also provides employment opportunities for local people, including musicians, performers, and event staff. In addition to the direct economic benefits, the festival also helps to promote Ullapool as a tourist destination. The festival has gained a reputation as one of the best traditional music festivals in Scotland, attracting visitors from all over the world. This increased exposure helps to raise the profile of Ullapool and the surrounding area, which can lead to increased tourism throughout the year.