Oban has welcomed the return of the Royal National Mòd, with the celebration of Gaelic culture expected to bring thousands of visitors to the town.
From October 11 to 19, the streets of the town in Argyll and Bute will be filled with music, celebrating the rich culture of the traditional language.
The Royal National Mòd has a long history in Oban, with the first ever event held in the town in 1892.
SuppliedThe event has since returned to the town 17 times, last appearing almost a decade ago in 2015.
The Mòd is expected to bring around 10,000 competitors, performers and visitors to Oban over the coming nine days to enjoy a programme of concerts, competitions and more.
James Graham, chief executive officer of An Comunn Gàidhealach, said the team was “delighted” to be back in Oban.
Mr Graham said the number of competitors are the highest they have been since the Covid pandemic.
STV News“The Gaelic language continues to have an irreplaceable place in daily Scottish life and over the next nine days we will see that strengthened and celebrated,” he said.
“I would like to pay tribute to our Gaelic Ambassadors for 2024 whose passion for Gaelic as an active, growing language richly deserves such recognition.”
He added that the next nine days will be a demonstration of “how the language is thriving, underpinned by incredible cultural output and a strong sense of community”.
The event will kick off with a torchlit parade through Oban and will finish with the traditional gathering of the choirs.
STV NewsCouncillor Jim Lynch, leader of Argyll and Bute Council, said it was a “joy” to see the event return to its home after almost a decade.
“Ceud mìle fàilte. It’s a joy to see the Royal National Mòd back in its home, in Oban, after nearly a decade.
“The Mòd plays a valuable cultural and economic role in Argyll and Bute, past, present and future.
“As a council, and as communities, we’re proud to support the event and welcome the thousands of talented people who will congregate in Oban over the next week to celebrate our Gaelic culture.
“I hope you enjoy some of the sights and hospitality of Argyll and Bute while you are with us. Best of luck in the events.”
The opening day of the Mòd is also marked with the unveiling of Gaelic Ambassador of the Year, a Scottish Government honour presented to outstanding Gael who have dedicated their lives to championing the language.
STV NewsDeputy first minister Kate Forbes will present this year’s honour to two individuals originally from the Isle of Lewis, educator and development expert Margaret MacIver and posthumously to Gaelic activist Finlay MacLeod.
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