Charity registered in Scotland SC027280
Established in 1982, and with the first event in 1983, the festival is manned by a voluntary committee of around a dozen members, who work year-round to bring the festival together each May, supported by countless more in the preceding weeks and days. This is one of the principles upon which it was founded over thirty years ago, and is central to the festival’s feel and welcome – for both artists and audiences.
One of the most important characteristics of the first festival that stands true today is the balance of visiting and local artistes. Whilst the festival has become a sought-after stage amongst artists worldwide – and has been a four-day home for many, over the years – it is equally, if not more so, the local, Orcadian acts that make the festival what it is and keep the crowds coming.
