Fort William is preparing to welcome back one of the UK’s leading celebrations of mountain culture as the Fort William Mountain Festival returns later this month.
The four day festival will run from Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 February 2026, bringing talks, films, workshops, outdoor activities and live performance to venues across Fort William and Lochaber.
Now firmly established as a highlight of the winter outdoor calendar, the Fort William Mountain Festival has grown steadily since its launch in 2004 and continues to draw audiences from across Scotland, the UK and beyond.
The 2026 edition promises a wide ranging programme that reflects the full breadth of modern mountain culture, blending adventure, creativity, environmental awareness and community.
Audiences can expect stories from leading adventurers and athletes, alongside filmmakers, photographers, musicians and writers whose work is rooted in the landscapes of the Highlands and further afield.
Highlights include mountain photographers Hamish Frost and Ryan Balharry sharing the realities of capturing adventure in Scotland’s often unforgiving conditions, while endurance athlete Holly Wootten reflects on the defining moments of her journey to winning the Dragons Back Race 2025.
Al Todd, Snowsports Director of Mountaineering Scotland, will draw on three decades of ski touring in the Highlands, offering insight into how the sport and the landscape have changed over time.
Themes of risk, resilience and responsibility run throughout the programme, from the adrenaline fuelled Risk Extreme panel discussion to Our Seas, which explores the relationship between people and the marine environment with ocean advocate Cal Major.
Evening events provide shared festival moments, including the International Film Night and Awards, a Climbing Night featuring Patagonia athlete Pete Whittaker, and the presentation of the Scottish Awards for Excellence in Mountain Culture.
Music and storytelling also play a central role, with an intimate performance of Iona Lane’s album Swilkie and Mountain Voices weaving stories and song that celebrate Scotland’s landscapes.
The Nevis Centre will once again act as the Festival Hub, hosting exhibitors, brands, food, drink and live sessions, and providing a welcoming focal point throughout the weekend.
Beyond the main venues, Explore Events across Lochaber offer hands on opportunities ranging from winter skills and trail running to adventure filmmaking, geology, wild swimming and mountain illustration.
The festival remains volunteer led and community powered, with organisers continuing to place a strong emphasis on accessibility, inclusion and inspiring people to discover their own adventure.
Anna Danby, Content Co ordinator for the 2026 Festival, said:
“The 2026 programme is as diverse as ever–spanning photography, film, literature, music, environmental themes, and of course the epic adventures.
“We want everyone, no matter their background or ability, to feel welcome, inspired and ready to explore.”
Graham Smyth, Chair of the Highland Mountain Culture Association, said:
“This festival is entirely powered by volunteers who share a passion for the outdoors and mountain culture.
“Their dedication creates a long weekend that is truly unforgettable and continues to put Fort William at the heart of the UK’s outdoor community.”
