Young people from across Scotland are taking part in a series of Gaelic activities over the Easter break, with hundreds engaging in music, culture and language through Fèisean nan Gàidheal programmes.
At the heart of this year’s events is the 5 Latha programme at the Geàrrannan Blackhouses, where 18 secondary school pupils are spending the week immersed in a Gaelic speaking community.
The programme brings young Gaelic speakers together to live, learn and communicate entirely through the language, building confidence and fluency in a real world setting.
Participants are taking part in a wide range of cultural activities, including crofting, fishing traditions, wildlife learning and exploring the heritage of Harris Tweed.
Traditional food and island recipes also form part of the experience, giving young people a deeper connection to Gaelic life and identity.
Music and song remain central to the programme, with workshops led by Ewen Henderson of Mànran and renowned singer Margaret Stewart.
The week will culminate in a community cèilidh on Thursday 9 April, delivered in partnership with the Carloway Gaelic Choir, where participants will perform alongside local musicians.
Calum Fraser said:
“We are delighted to be back at the Geàrrannan Blackhouses for 5 Latha.
“This year’s event filled up in just a couple of days, which illustrates the demand for, and interest in, such experiences.”
Beyond the Western Isles, the Easter programme extends across Scotland, with events taking place from Ness and Portree to Oban, Inverness, Aberdeen and Glasgow.
Across these locations, hundreds of young people are being given the opportunity to develop skills in traditional music, Gaelic song, drama and dance under the guidance of experienced tutors.
The scale of participation highlights a growing appetite for Gaelic learning and cultural engagement among younger generations.
Calum Alex Macmillan said:
“With the funding we receive from Creative Scotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the William Grant Foundation, The Highland Council and Argyll & Bute Council, Fèisean nan Gàidheal is delighted to support Fèisean across Scotland.
“The Fèisean committees are run by dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to offer extensive programmes of learning opportunities for young people.
“We wish them every success with their events, and it is always pleasing to see communities coming together for cultural events which make a real difference to local economies and provide employment opportunities for artists.”
The programme reflects a wider effort to sustain and grow Gaelic language and culture, ensuring it remains a living and active part of communities across Scotland.
