The Orkney Folk Festival has unveiled an extraordinary international lineup for its 2025 edition, promising a musical celebration that will transform the islands into a global stage of traditional and contemporary folk sounds.
Set to take place between 22 and 25 May 2025, the festival will showcase an impressive array of musicians from across the world, perfectly timed with Orkney hosting the International Island Games in July.
Artists will travel from diverse locations including Shetland, Skye, Ireland, Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island, and as far as Manhattan and Australia, creating a truly global musical tapestry.
A particularly exciting feature will be the celebration of musical connections between Orkney and Cape Breton, with Canadian celtic superstars Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy headlining their first UK performances in 25 years.
The festival will also mark a significant milestone by commemorating the 30th anniversary of Hadhirgaan, a renowned traditional music education programme that has nurtured Orcadian musical talent for three decades.
Nordic and Sami influences will be prominently represented, with bands like Dreamers’ Circus and Emil Kárlsen bringing unique melodic perspectives to the event.
Homegrown Orcadian talent remains at the heart of the festival, with local groups like Gnoss, JenEric, and Saltfishforty ensuring the islands’ rich musical heritage continues to shine brightly.
Emerging talents will also take centre stage, with innovative acts like The Magpies and award-winning artist Kim Carnie promising to bring fresh energy to the traditional folk scene.
The festival continues to demonstrate its commitment to musical diversity, offering everything from high-energy contemporary folk to traditional ceilidh performances, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.
Festival Producer Craig Corse expressed excitement about the 2025 lineup, highlighting the unique opportunity to celebrate musical connections across different islands and cultures.
Music enthusiasts can become part of the festival’s journey by joining the Orkney Friends supporter scheme, which offers exclusive benefits and early access to tickets.
More artists will be announced in the new year, promising even more musical excitement for the 2025 Orkney Folk Festival.
Orkney Friends memberships will be on sale via the Orkney Folk Festival website between 1 December 2024 and 28 February 2025.
