Five Unmissable Highlights at the Royal National Mòd in Lochaber

The Royal National Mòd, celebrated as the world’s largest festival dedicated to Gaelic language, music, and culture, is set to take place in Lochaber from October 13 to October 21, 2023. This 133-year-old event promises a vibrant experience with over 200 competition categories, street performances, concerts, and cultural exhibitions. For both seasoned supporters of Gaelic culture and newcomers, here are five standout events that encapsulate the essence of the Mòd.

The Opening Torchlight Procession: A Spectacle of Community Spirit

The festival will commence with the opening torchlight procession, an event that captures the heart of the Mòd’s community spirit. Participants will carry flaming torches through the streets of Fort William, creating a breathtaking display that sets an atmospheric tone for the week ahead. This free-to-watch event not only symbolizes the enduring strength of the Gaelic language but also invites attendees to immerse themselves in the festival’s vibrant spirit.

Electrifying Performances at the Opening Concert

The Nevis Centre in Fort William will host the Mòd Opening Concert, where the headline act, the acclaimed band Dàimh, will take center stage. With over 20 years of experience, Dàimh is known for its electrifying musical interplay that resonates with audiences worldwide. The concert also features Ceilear, a collective of young musicians from Skye, showcasing the future of Gaelic music. These talented performers are products of the Fèisean movement and the Gaelic medium education system, illustrating how the tradition continues to evolve and captivate new generations.

Street Cèilidh: A Celebration of Highland Culture

An outdoor street cèilidh at Cameron Square will bring the joy of Gaelic culture directly to the public. Led by the Robert Nairn Dance Band and Màrtainn Skene Dance Band, this lively event will offer afternoons filled with spontaneous dancing and toe-tapping tunes. Open to everyone, it’s a perfect opportunity to experience authentic Highland culture, demonstrating the incredible breadth of Lochaber’s musical heritage.

The evening will showcase local pipe bands, the Lochaber Gaelic Choir, youth choirs, and traditional groups like Sealladh from Ardnamurchan High School. Supported by a house band featuring top Lochaber musicians, including Ewen Henderson, Rachel Walker, and Angus Nicolson, this concert celebrates grassroots talent. Attendees can also witness performances from the Jane Douglas School of Dance, highlighting the thriving traditional music education in the region.

A Unique Musical Journey to Nova Scotia

Another highlight is a special concert featuring Màiri Morrison and Alasdair Roberts, presenting a unique exploration of how Scottish Gaelic songs traveled to Nova Scotia. Collaborating with Canadian bassist Pete Johnston, the duo has created an album inspired by the work of folklorist Helen Creighton, who documented these musical treasures from 1899 to 1989. This performance illustrates the global reach of Gaelic culture, weaving narratives of exile, hope, and cultural preservation that resonate today.

For those interested in the Scottish diaspora or the evolution of traditional music, this concert offers an enlightening perspective on how cultural identity adapts and endures across generations.

The Royal National Mòd in Lochaber serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of celebrating and preserving Gaelic culture. With its diverse range of events, it promises to deliver unforgettable experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors alike.