Fàilte / Welcome
And what a party we have planned in the year that is being branded Scotland's Year of Homecoming! Of course HebCelt is no stranger to this phenomenon as that's what we do every year – welcome home family, friends and visitors to the Hebrides, and have a great party.
This year has allowed us to expand on the homecoming theme by incorporating a Québécois element which began with Calum Martin's project on one of his antecedents who made a particular mark on that area of Canada; more on that in later pages. La Bottine Souriante made a significant impact in our earlier festivals and we are delighted that after 10 years they return to the big stage, equally we are pleased to welcome Le Vent du Nord on their first visit to Lewis. Lastly on this theme, An Lanntair will be hosting a photographic exhibition for us charting the impact of early Scots pioneers entitled 'Scots in Québec'.
From Ireland Sharon Shannon returns with her Big Band featuring the inimitable Dessie O'Halloran. From even further afield we welcome The Ploughboys, one of Australia's most prolific festival bands and from Kansas City, Missouri meet The Wilders, whose blistering sets at last year's Edinburgh Fringe assured them sell out shows at Celtic Connections in January.
Set this around a strong Scottish programme which features none other than Blair Douglas and his band making a relatively rare live appearance, Karen Matheson, Box Club, The Chair, Fred Morrison together with many local musicians and we are set to party in big style this July.
Take time to read through the programme and make the most of the wide range of events on offer. We hope you enjoy it wherever you come from. Fàilte dhachaigh gu Fèis Cheilteach Innse Gall.
