The St Magnus International Festival returns to Orkney this June for its 49th year, bringing together exceptional folk musicians against the backdrop of the islands’ stunning midsummer landscape. This year’s folk programme is especially strong, with a brilliant mix of local legends, boundary-pushers, and intimate, collaborative gigs, spanning generations and geographies.
This year’s folk programme celebrates both local heritage and international talent. Orkney fiddle legend Jennifer Wrigley performs at home, while rising local band Auskerry showcases the island’s vibrant musical traditions.
The lineup spans diverse styles and collaborations: Stevens & Pound Duo reimagine classical works like The Lark Ascending, Grant McQuade Duo perform everything from Dowland to Joni Mitchell, and Escocia Duo bring South American folk-tango fusion to Orkney’s stages.
Leesik & Cartwright blend Swedish and Cumbrian influences, while accordion masters Karen Tweed & Karen Street present Earth, Soil, The Land, mixing Irish traditional music with jazz and original compositions.
Set during Orkney’s magical midsummer period of nearly 19 hours of daylight, St Magnus has built an international reputation as one of Scotland’s most unique cultural gatherings, combining world-class performances with the islands’ dramatic natural beauty.
The festival runs 20-27 June 2025 across multiple Orkney venues.
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