Here in Orkney, the spring air is always charged with a certain energy, but this time of year, it's positively electric. The lambs are gambolling in the fields, the days are stretching out towards the Simmer Dim and most importantly, the Orkney Folk Festival is just around the corner! For us Orcadians, it's more than just a music festival. It's a highlight of the year, a celebration of our island spirit and a chance to reconnect with friends, family and the vibrant musical tapestry that binds us all together.
The buzz starts weeks beforehand. You hear snippets of conversations in the local shops about who's playing where, which sessions are unmissable and who's hosting folkies in their spare room. The posters start popping up in shop windows, a colourful riot against the stone buildings. And then, you feel it– that rising tide of excitement!
For us, the Festival is about so much more than just the headliners. We’re always eager to see who the organisers have pulled in from across the globe, like American blues legend Guy Davis and traditional musician Troy MacGillivray from Nova Scotia. Hearing those world-class musicians bringing their own unique flair to our little part of the world is truly special. But the heart of the festival lies in the smaller, more intimate gatherings.
Think cosy pub sessions where local musicians jam alongside visiting artists, the air thick with the sound of fiddles, accordions and mandolins connecting in the universal language of music. Think afternoon concerts in village halls, where we might stumble upon a hidden gem of a performer. Think impromptu singalongs on the pier, the salty breeze carrying the melody out over the shimmering waters.
It's the coming together that makes it so magical. You see familiar faces you haven't seen since last year's festival, sharing stories and laughter over a pint of locally brewed ale. You hear new dialects and accents mingling with the local lilt. You witness the power of music to bridge cultures and create a sense of shared humanity- something all to welcome these days.
This year, we are particularly looking forward to catching Orkney’s own Auskerry and the high-octane energy of The Chair. But honestly, we’re equally excited about simply soaking up the atmosphere and just letting the music guide us.
The Orkney Folk Festival is the best of the rich cultural heritage that thrives on these islands. So, if you're even considering coming to Orkney for the festival, we urge you to do it. You won't regret it. And who knows, you might even find yourself planning your return trip before the last note has faded away. See you there!