In a true testament to its growing international appeal, the fifth annual Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week), running from 23rd February – 1st March 2026, is set to unite Gaelic speakers and learners on a global scale like never before.
From rural Scottish Highland communities to the city of London, and as far away as Australia, the meaningful celebration will take centre stage across continents, highlighting the undeniable vitality of the Scottish Gaelic language.
Seachdain na Gàidhlig will showcase a vibrant programme of events in far-flung locations and varying time zones in just over two weeks’ time, centered around the theme Use It or Lose It (Cleachd i no caill i).
The initiative aims toinspire Gaelic enthusiasts everywhere to actively engage with the language and send a powerful message of strength that resonates worldwide.
Highlights include an online gathering for Gaels in Australia, proving that the love for Gaelic stretches halfway around the world. Participants in Australia and neighbouring regions will come together virtually to share language, laughter and culture.
Meanwhile, online step dance workshops led by renowned Scottish step dancer Sophie Stephenson are open to participants on every continent, offering an inclusive, international invitation to celebrate Gaelic culture through movement and music.
The popular Say a Gaelic Phrase Day returns on Thursday 26th February, and is once again expected to engage thousands of digital participants from around the globe who want to share their love of Gaelic, or give it a try, on social media.
Gaelic speakers, learners and lovers in London will have multiple opportunities to connect with the language, including through Còisir Lunnainn (the London Gaelic Choir), who are staging a London Ceilidh Club in Camden, and a Gaelic church service in Covent Garden.
Back in Scotland, a rich variety of events offer something for speakers and non-speakers alike. The Living Lore in Anstruther will share Gaelic song from celebrated singer Mairi McGillivray, Edinburgh’s Guid Crack: To the Gaels with Love event will see storytelling Caroline Carmichael celebrate the rich tales of Gaelic folklore, and an immersive Gaelic Spoken Word Night in Dundee, hosted by Gaelic writer and poet Donnchadh MacCàba, will explore Gaelic culture through poetry and spoken word.
Every year, the World Gaelic Week movement grows stronger. In 2025, more than 170 events attracted 40,000 people from every corner of the world and this year’s Small Grants Fund, which supports the staging of Seachdain na Gàidhlig events, received a record number of applications.
Joy Dunlop, Director of Seachdain na Gàidhlig, said: “With 2026 marking the first edition since Gaelic became an official language of Scotland, World Gaelic Week has never felt more significant or more international. There are literally hundreds of activities, both in person and online, scheduled to take place, giving Gaelic communities worldwide countless ways to connect and celebrate. As we count down to this year’s landmark celebration, we can see that across the globe, in both bustling cities and close-knit villages, the enthusiasm for the Gaelic language knows no bounds.”
Supported by Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Scottish Government, and spearheaded by Scottish traditional culture and music organisation Hands Up For Trad, Seachdain na Gàidhlig 2026 will take place from 23rd February – 1st March 2026. Visit seachdainnagaidhlig.scot.
Individuals, community groups and organisations with any level of Gaelic can stage their own events or host an activity in their community that promotes the language. Events can be added to the World Gaelic Week website at seachdainnagaidhlig.scot.
Seachdain na Gàidhlig is delivered by cultural charity Hands Up for Trad and donations make their work possible. Support the initiative at seachdainnagaidhlig.scot/support-us.