Congratulations to HebCelt Festival who has been nominated in Event of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2025. Vote now! It’s going to be another great night at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards on Saturday 6th December in Aberdeen Music Hall. Why not join us for a brilliant night of music and awards. Buy a ticket here.
We asked Carol of HebCelt Festival the following questions.
Tell us about yourself
Rooted in the heart of the Outer Hebrides, HebCelt Festival is a vibrant celebration of Celtic music and culture that brings together artists and audiences from across Scotland and beyond. Since its launch in 1996, HebCelt has become one of the country’s most iconic festivals, blending world-class traditional, contemporary, and emerging talent with the unique island town setting of Stornoway and the stunning backdrop of the Lews Castle grounds.
Driven by community spirit, sustainability, and a passion for live music, HebCelt proudly showcases the richness of Gaelic and Scottish culture while supporting local artists, businesses, and volunteers. Each year, the festival creates an unforgettable experience that unites people through music, heritage, and the warm Hebridean welcome that defines our island home.
Why are you involved in Scottish music?
At HebCelt, Scottish music is at the heart of everything we do. Our festival was founded to celebrate and promote the incredible richness of Scotland’s musical heritage, from Gaelic song and traditional tunes to the innovative artists shaping its future. We believe Scottish music is a living, evolving art form that connects people to place, language, and community.
By showcasing both established and emerging talent, we aim to create opportunities for musicians, inspire audiences of all ages, and keep our cultural traditions thriving for generations to come. Through HebCelt, we’re proud to play a part in sustaining Scotland’s musical story and sharing the spirit of the islands with the world.
Any particular career highlights?
Over nearly three decades, HebCelt Festival has grown from a small community event into one of Scotland’s most respected and loved music festivals, drawing audiences from around the world to Stornoway each summer. Among our proudest highlights are:
Showcasing Scotland’s best – hosting iconic performances from artists such as Runrig, Julie Fowlis, Dougie MacLean, Texas, Capercaillie, Skerryvore and many more, while providing a vital platform for emerging local talent.
Cultural recognition – consistently celebrating Gaelic language and Hebridean heritage and being praised nationally for our role in promoting Scottish culture and music.
Sustainability leadership – earning awards and recognition for our commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement.
Equality and representation – proudly exceeding the Keychange pledge by ensuring gender balance and diversity across our line-ups, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to inclusion and fairness in the music industry.
Community impact – driven by a dedicated Board of Trustees, staff, and volunteers, HebCelt generates a significant boost to the local economy and fosters a deep sense of pride across the islands.
From our island roots to the international stage, HebCelt continues to champion Scottish music, culture, and creativity, proving that a small community can have a big voice on the world stage.
What are your plans for the future?
As we look ahead, HebCelt is focused on building on nearly three decades of celebrating music, culture, and community in the Outer Hebrides. With our 30th anniversary in 2027 fast approaching, we’re planning a very special programme that honours our island roots while showcasing the incredible diversity and creativity of Scottish and Celtic music today.
Our future vision is to continue nurturing emerging talent, strengthening our Gaelic and cultural connections, and developing our commitment to sustainability and accessibility. We aim to ensure that HebCelt remains a source of pride for our community and a beacon for audiences who come from around the world to experience the magic of live music in the Hebrides.
HebCelt Festival Social Media
Website: https://www.hebceltfest.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebCelt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebcelt/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hebceltfest
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hebceltfest
The 2025 MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards are on the 6th December 2025 in Aberdeen Music Hall! You will be able to watch it live in person (buy a ticket here). Watch it live in the UK at 9pm (GMT) on BBC ALBA and and around the world here. Hosted by Scottish personalities Alistair Heather and Mary Ann Kennedy, the night in the Granite City will also welcome live performances from some of the brightest lights on the thriving trad scene today including beloved singer Hannah Rarity, UK folk legends The Poozies, trad pop band Mec Lir and BBC Radio scotland Young Traditional Musician and Scots Performer o the Year Ellie Beaton and many more!
If you would like to support Hands Up for Trad in their work with Scottish trad music and musicians why not become a friend of Hands Up for Trad. In addition to our high profile events like the Scots Trad Music Awards, we also deliver a less well known, education programme for young people from 8yrs right through to young adults at the start of their careers. Read more here.