Basket: £0.00
Basket: £0.00
(Sat 3 May: 7:30pm) Be transported to the magical Hebridean Islands and the Highlands of Scotland through stories and legends collected by folklorist Otta Swire, who captured the spirit and traditions of a bygone era. With story, music and imagery, storytellers Bea Ferguson and Heather Yule explore the captivating tales of these lands, and the people and strange creatures who dwelt there. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 3 May: 10:30am) Join Gaelic storyteller Martin MacIntyre for an introductory session exploring the history, importance and joy in Gaelic storytelling culture in Scotland. Martin was the University of Edinburgh’s first Gaelic Writer in Residence (2022-24) and is an accomplished storyteller, poet and author. This is a bilingual event in English with some content in Gaelic. No prior knowledge of Scottish Gaelic is required to attend, everyone welcome! Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Fri 9 May: 6pm) Bog Standard is the gripping true story of a tip off which led a rookie journalist to one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. It’s also a story about a magical bogland called Lindow Moss, two murders 1500 years apart, and how an ancient bog man became a 21st-century eco warrior. Award-winning health journalist and storyteller Rachel Pugh and prize-winning harpist Lucy Nolan collaborate in a show weaving words, music and natural bog sounds from the UK and Kyrgyzstan to recreate the nail-biting days of 1984 when Rachel fought to save Lindow Man from ending up in a bag of compost! Directed by Marion Kenny. Watch a short Trailer here ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 6 May: 2pm) Celebrate Edinburgh's Tradfest with friends from the Scots Music Group! An afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories, held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. All welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 4 May: 8pm) Cinematic-folk duo Dowally and innovative French drummer Philippe Boudot celebrate the release of their album Ici et Là-Bas, recorded last year in Edinburgh. Dowally have become renowned for their collaborations with top musicians such as Phil Alexander (Moishe's Bagel) and Ciaran Ryan (Dallahan). Their latest partnership with in-demand drummer Philippe Boudot (currently touring with renowned songwriter Clara Ysé) sees the duo at their most creative, making lyrical, joyful music, whilst anchored to their folk beginnings. Over the course of a single week, they wrote and recorded an entire album, with voice, fiddle, guitar, drums and percussion. That freshness is apparent across the tracks, ranging from epic morricone-esque compositions and new folk tunes, to yearning songs in both English and French. Watch a short Trailer here ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 4 May: 1pm) Come with family and friends to dance Scottish dances and sing well-known songs with the Minnow Ceilidh Band. All dances will be called and there'll be easy-to-follow circles for wee ones. A fun introduction to sociable dancing with live music. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 3 May: 1:30pm & 3pm) This delightful Beltane Fire Society tradition allows parents to share in the magic of the Beltane story with their little ones through storytelling, face painting and arts & crafts. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 8 May: 7:30pm) Welcome to an eclectic night of ancient myth, contemporary storytelling, post-folk music, and physical artistry. Steeped in the traditions of Scottish storytelling, we evoke the warm atmosphere of peat-smoked hearthsides and ceilidh house revelry, presenting timeless motifs relevant to a discerning modern audience. Join host Dougie Mackay as he invites a different selection of Scotland’s finest storytellers, songwriters, musicians, and performing artists to each bi-monthly Hearth Fire Session to create an innovative showcase of Scotland’s contemporary culture. May's session features storyteller Niall Moorjani, Moroccan filmmakers/storytellers Tizintizwa (Nadir Bouhmouch and Soumeya Ait Ahmed) and musician Evie Waddell. ~~~~~ Niall Moorjani is a non-binary, mixed Scots-Indian writer and storyteller. They are fascinated by the fantastical, the historical, and the liminal and have written and performed many shows, including A Fairie Tale and Mohan: A Partition Story at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. They are also the founder and host of the Tales at The Tavern/Lighthouse open mic story night in London/Edinburgh. Niall's work has been described as ‘genius reinvention of the form’ (Fringe of Colour). Tizintizwa (Nadir Bouhmouch and Soumeya Ait Ahmed) is a Moroccan art-research collective that fosters collective creation and cross-pollination across disciplines. They collaborate with rural communities to document oral traditions and explore ecological transformations. Their work emphasizes the importance of transgenerational transmission, land relations, and the interplay between nature and culture, showcased at notable venues worldwide. They will also perform at SSC as part of the Folk Film Gathering on Fri 9 May. Evie Waddell is a Gaelic and Scots singer, and fiddler hailing from Stirlingshire. She graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and her passion for Scottish music is deeply rooted in the influence of Jo Miller, also drawing inspiration from Ivor Cutler, Martyn Bennett, Lisa O Neill, and Rhiannon Giddens. Evie also performs in British Sign Language (BSL) and has directed and toured her own show 'Fàilte Gu BSL' as well as performing with Theatre Gu Leòr. She was a winner of the Danny Kyle Open Stage 2023 and was a BBC Young Traditional Musician Semi-Finalist 2024. Evie released her visual EP 'Cluich!' in February 2024. Dougie Mackay hails from the Scottish Highlands, from a lineage of natural storytellers. He is fascinated by the wild northern tales of Scotland, Scandinavia, Ireland and the Baltics, with a practice steeped in group-work facilitation and storytelling as a tool for development, connection and empowerment. He has been telling stories professionally for over 10 years and has developed successful long-form shows including Animate Lands and A Wolf Shall Devour the Sun. He co-curates and hosts Hearth Fire Sessions throughout the year. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 5 May: 1pm) Experience the spirit of Edinburgh’s streets as they once were - full of fun, folklore, and adventure. Join Claire McNicol and Fergus McNicol for a lively, family-friendly session of traditional street games, playful rhymes, toe-tapping songs, and captivating tales from Old Edinburgh! Discover games that once filled the city's closes and wynds with laughter, while learning the chants and songs passed down through generations. Listen to stories of Edinburgh’s past, of mischievous bairns, bustling markets, and the hijinks of the Old Town. A perfect blend of history, play and imagination! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 7 May: 7:30pm) Songs from the people of Scotland; voices of the excluded, the marginalised, the feared and the fearful, the enchanted and the enchanters, the mothers, the fathers, the workers, the children... let them all be heard. Sangstream, the a cappella Scots folk choir now in its 28th year, led by the renowned Corrina Hewat, is excited to perform their rich choice of songs arranged by Corrina and previous leaders such as Mairi Campbell and Robyn Stapleton. Songs revealing truths from deep in history to more recent tales, all relevant to life in Scotland today. ~~~~~ Sangstream Scots Folk Choir is Edinburgh-based, with weekly Thursday rehearsals at St Thomas of Aquin’s. The choir is open to all with no audition needed to join. Their repertoire is mainly unaccompanied Scots folk songs, both traditional and modern. They also have a regular monthly Saturday afternoon session at the Canons’ Gait in the Old Town. Since their founding in 1997 they have been led by some of Scotland’s finest traditional voices – Christine Kydd, Jenny Clark, Mairi Campbell, Robyn Stapleton and, for 8 years, Corrina Hewat who is celebrating 30 years in the arts as musician and composer, having a wide and varied background of music and theatre. Sangstream aims to provide the opportunity for people to learn about and share Scots songs and traditions and to carry these songs out into the wider community. You can find out more about becoming a member of Sangstream at sangstream.org.uk. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 2 May: 7:30pm) MAIK are a brand new folk duo from either side of the Scotland/England border. Two experienced folk singers in their own right, Jamie Cook and Kirsty Law have joined forces to bring some of their most beloved songs together. Through their arrangements they tell stories both ancient and contemporary, in harmonies that are at times stark and dissonant, and at times warm and lush, in a mix of Scots language, Cumbrian dialect and English. Watch 'My Son David' performed by MAIK MAIK's performance will be preceded by a support slot from Jemima Thewes. Jemima sings traditional ballads and her own songs, transporting the listener through mesmeric melodies and human-fragile elemental tension that softly bewitches, and at times disconcerts, in time-altering depth and chilling folk-story beauty. 'Jemima has such a beautiful voice, with a great, original style. Her combination of darkness and irony, melancholy and delight is fantastic.' (Rosanne Cash) ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 3 May: 11:30am) Artists, performers and culture workers of all kinds are called to join Tradfest musicians and mummers on the Edinburgh and Lothians May Day procession. Gather at 11.30am at Parliament Square by St Giles Cathedral for a 12pm departure down the High Street to The Pleasance, where there will be a rally, music and stalls. Greenery and instruments welcome! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
External Venue
(Sat 3 May: 10am) Join the Family Beltane crew for a morning of mask decoration, crafting and face painting ahead of the May Day Parade. Fun for all the family, please come in Mummers costume if desired! Afterwards, all are welcome to join the May Day Parade or watch and enjoy as it passes down the High Street. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 11 May: 11am, 1:30pm & 7pm) Join us for a celebration of independent film in Scotland through the lens of celebrated filmmaker Douglas Eadie. Across the day a selection of Douglas’s work will be shown including: 11am: Haston - A Life in the Mountains (plus Q&A featuring special guest, cameraman Douglas Campbell.)1:30pm: An Ceasnachadh - An Interrogation of a Highland Lass (plus Q&A with Kathleen MacInnes, Dolina MacLennan and Kenny MacRae) / Hydro Days (plus Q&A with Film Producer Christeen Whinford, Film Editor Fiona MacDonald and Film Director Robbie Fraser)7pm: Down Home (with Aly Bain, introduced by Mike Bolland who commissioned the original film for Channel 4) All hosted throughout by poet Jim Mackintosh and author James Robertson. Part of the Folk Film Gathering 2025. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 5 May: 4pm) In his new book Scotland’s Sacred Goddess: Hidden in Plain Sight (Luath Press), Stuart McHardy explores the pre-Christian beliefs of the Scottish people, where the Scots had a rich mythology of stories that explained the creation and workings of the world. Join Stuart to celebrate the book and hear how these ancient beliefs are not lost but can be seen in today’s cultural and physical landscape, in a mix of ancient oral tales, place names, local rhymes and landscape shapes. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tue 6 May: 7:30pm) A wonderful evening of stories, music and song celebrating the bothy culture of rural North East Scotland. Join ballad singer Allan Taylor, fiddler Karin Paterson and storytellers Phyll McBain and Jackie Ross for a ceilidh of land, laughter and a hearty dollop of Doric! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 May: 1:30pm) For musicians who want to be better storytellers on stage! Learn how to improve your patter and song introductions with some basic rules of storytelling. An interactive and fun session led by experienced musician and storyteller David Francis, where you will learn how to stay grounded, be aware of your audience and try different introductions to songs and music, with honest and useful feedback. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum. David Francis has been involved in folk music in Scotland for around 40 years as a folk club organiser, musician, researcher and administrator and is also involved in other aspects of the folk arts such as dance and storytelling. As a musician, David is known for his guitar and songwriting work in duo The Cast with his wife Mairi Campbell, with whom he recorded and toured in the 90s and 00s. The duo was nudged into the spotlight and temporary solvency when their version of Robert Burns’s Auld Lang Syne was picked up for the film of the hit TV show Sex and the City. He worked with the Traditional Music Forum and TRACS until his recent retirement but continues to stay involved through other organisations like the European Folk Network. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 10 May: 11am) Join storyteller Ailie Finlay from My Kind of Book on a fun-packed, sensory adventure for May time as we head off through the green grass and squelchy bogs of Scotland! Lively traditional tales, inclusive games and lots of props to bounce and squeeze, followed by a calming session with play dough. A fun and engaging session for everyone but particularly suitable for children with additional needs and their families and friends. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 9 May: 8:30pm) Blending historic events, Moroccan popular myths and magical fiction, this special live performance from filmmaker/storytellers Nadir Bouhmouch and Soumeya Ait Ahmed combines film, lecture and storytelling, showcasing the Tizintizwa Collective’s field recordings of ancestral oral poems, epic ballads and women's work songs to create a folktale-like account of the 20th century "Roman" conquest of Morocco from a "barbarian" perspective. Part of the Folk Film Gathering 2025. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 May: 7:30pm) TuFlamenco presents a tribute to Federico García Lorca, Spain’s most iconic poet, through Flamenco’s rhythm, dance, and poetry. Three Spanish artists - Inma Montero (dance & vocals), Danielo Olivera (guitar & vocals), and Inés Álvarez Villa (storyteller) – explore the intense connection of the poet to flamenco in all its passion, tragedy, and beauty. Join us on this celebration of the rich Spanish cultural heritage! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 May: 2pm) A walking tour around the sights and sounds of Edinburgh’s Old Town with artist/curator Claudia Zeiske. Walk along Edinburgh’s High Street in the footsteps of philosopher/community planner Patrick Geddes, taking in the buildings, stories and green spaces that maintain Geddes’ legacy of ecology, culture and creativity. Claudia Zeiske is a cultural activist and Walking Curator. Her practice stems from Deveron Projects in rural Scotland where she was the founding Director. Here ‘the town is the venue’ rather than a gallery or arts centre based on a balanced approach between artistic criticality and community involvement. Her experiences come from participatory arts, linking local activities with global realities. You can find out more about Claudia by visiting her website. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
(Sat 3 May: 7:30pm) Be transported to the magical Hebridean Islands and the Highlands of Scotland through stories and legends collected by folklorist Otta Swire, who captured the spirit and traditions of a bygone era. With story, music and imagery, storytellers Bea Ferguson and Heather Yule explore the captivating tales of these lands, and the people and strange creatures who dwelt there. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 3 May: 10:30am) Join Gaelic storyteller Martin MacIntyre for an introductory session exploring the history, importance and joy in Gaelic storytelling culture in Scotland. Martin was the University of Edinburgh’s first Gaelic Writer in Residence (2022-24) and is an accomplished storyteller, poet and author. This is a bilingual event in English with some content in Gaelic. No prior knowledge of Scottish Gaelic is required to attend, everyone welcome! Presented by the Scottish Storytelling Forum. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Fri 9 May: 6pm) Bog Standard is the gripping true story of a tip off which led a rookie journalist to one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. It’s also a story about a magical bogland called Lindow Moss, two murders 1500 years apart, and how an ancient bog man became a 21st-century eco warrior. Award-winning health journalist and storyteller Rachel Pugh and prize-winning harpist Lucy Nolan collaborate in a show weaving words, music and natural bog sounds from the UK and Kyrgyzstan to recreate the nail-biting days of 1984 when Rachel fought to save Lindow Man from ending up in a bag of compost! Directed by Marion Kenny. Watch a short Trailer here ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Tue 6 May: 2pm) Celebrate Edinburgh's Tradfest with friends from the Scots Music Group! An afternoon session of traditional songs, music, poems and stories, held in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. All welcome to listen or bring a tune for a turn.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 4 May: 8pm) Cinematic-folk duo Dowally and innovative French drummer Philippe Boudot celebrate the release of their album Ici et Là-Bas, recorded last year in Edinburgh. Dowally have become renowned for their collaborations with top musicians such as Phil Alexander (Moishe's Bagel) and Ciaran Ryan (Dallahan). Their latest partnership with in-demand drummer Philippe Boudot (currently touring with renowned songwriter Clara Ysé) sees the duo at their most creative, making lyrical, joyful music, whilst anchored to their folk beginnings. Over the course of a single week, they wrote and recorded an entire album, with voice, fiddle, guitar, drums and percussion. That freshness is apparent across the tracks, ranging from epic morricone-esque compositions and new folk tunes, to yearning songs in both English and French. Watch a short Trailer here ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sun 4 May: 1pm) Come with family and friends to dance Scottish dances and sing well-known songs with the Minnow Ceilidh Band. All dances will be called and there'll be easy-to-follow circles for wee ones. A fun introduction to sociable dancing with live music. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sat 3 May: 1:30pm & 3pm) This delightful Beltane Fire Society tradition allows parents to share in the magic of the Beltane story with their little ones through storytelling, face painting and arts & crafts. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Thu 8 May: 7:30pm) Welcome to an eclectic night of ancient myth, contemporary storytelling, post-folk music, and physical artistry. Steeped in the traditions of Scottish storytelling, we evoke the warm atmosphere of peat-smoked hearthsides and ceilidh house revelry, presenting timeless motifs relevant to a discerning modern audience. Join host Dougie Mackay as he invites a different selection of Scotland’s finest storytellers, songwriters, musicians, and performing artists to each bi-monthly Hearth Fire Session to create an innovative showcase of Scotland’s contemporary culture. May's session features storyteller Niall Moorjani, Moroccan filmmakers/storytellers Tizintizwa (Nadir Bouhmouch and Soumeya Ait Ahmed) and musician Evie Waddell. ~~~~~ Niall Moorjani is a non-binary, mixed Scots-Indian writer and storyteller. They are fascinated by the fantastical, the historical, and the liminal and have written and performed many shows, including A Fairie Tale and Mohan: A Partition Story at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. They are also the founder and host of the Tales at The Tavern/Lighthouse open mic story night in London/Edinburgh. Niall's work has been described as ‘genius reinvention of the form’ (Fringe of Colour). Tizintizwa (Nadir Bouhmouch and Soumeya Ait Ahmed) is a Moroccan art-research collective that fosters collective creation and cross-pollination across disciplines. They collaborate with rural communities to document oral traditions and explore ecological transformations. Their work emphasizes the importance of transgenerational transmission, land relations, and the interplay between nature and culture, showcased at notable venues worldwide. They will also perform at SSC as part of the Folk Film Gathering on Fri 9 May. Evie Waddell is a Gaelic and Scots singer, and fiddler hailing from Stirlingshire. She graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and her passion for Scottish music is deeply rooted in the influence of Jo Miller, also drawing inspiration from Ivor Cutler, Martyn Bennett, Lisa O Neill, and Rhiannon Giddens. Evie also performs in British Sign Language (BSL) and has directed and toured her own show 'Fàilte Gu BSL' as well as performing with Theatre Gu Leòr. She was a winner of the Danny Kyle Open Stage 2023 and was a BBC Young Traditional Musician Semi-Finalist 2024. Evie released her visual EP 'Cluich!' in February 2024. Dougie Mackay hails from the Scottish Highlands, from a lineage of natural storytellers. He is fascinated by the wild northern tales of Scotland, Scandinavia, Ireland and the Baltics, with a practice steeped in group-work facilitation and storytelling as a tool for development, connection and empowerment. He has been telling stories professionally for over 10 years and has developed successful long-form shows including Animate Lands and A Wolf Shall Devour the Sun. He co-curates and hosts Hearth Fire Sessions throughout the year. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 5 May: 1pm) Experience the spirit of Edinburgh’s streets as they once were - full of fun, folklore, and adventure. Join Claire McNicol and Fergus McNicol for a lively, family-friendly session of traditional street games, playful rhymes, toe-tapping songs, and captivating tales from Old Edinburgh! Discover games that once filled the city's closes and wynds with laughter, while learning the chants and songs passed down through generations. Listen to stories of Edinburgh’s past, of mischievous bairns, bustling markets, and the hijinks of the Old Town. A perfect blend of history, play and imagination! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Wed 7 May: 7:30pm) Songs from the people of Scotland; voices of the excluded, the marginalised, the feared and the fearful, the enchanted and the enchanters, the mothers, the fathers, the workers, the children... let them all be heard. Sangstream, the a cappella Scots folk choir now in its 28th year, led by the renowned Corrina Hewat, is excited to perform their rich choice of songs arranged by Corrina and previous leaders such as Mairi Campbell and Robyn Stapleton. Songs revealing truths from deep in history to more recent tales, all relevant to life in Scotland today. ~~~~~ Sangstream Scots Folk Choir is Edinburgh-based, with weekly Thursday rehearsals at St Thomas of Aquin’s. The choir is open to all with no audition needed to join. Their repertoire is mainly unaccompanied Scots folk songs, both traditional and modern. They also have a regular monthly Saturday afternoon session at the Canons’ Gait in the Old Town. Since their founding in 1997 they have been led by some of Scotland’s finest traditional voices – Christine Kydd, Jenny Clark, Mairi Campbell, Robyn Stapleton and, for 8 years, Corrina Hewat who is celebrating 30 years in the arts as musician and composer, having a wide and varied background of music and theatre. Sangstream aims to provide the opportunity for people to learn about and share Scots songs and traditions and to carry these songs out into the wider community. You can find out more about becoming a member of Sangstream at sangstream.org.uk. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Fri 2 May: 7:30pm) MAIK are a brand new folk duo from either side of the Scotland/England border. Two experienced folk singers in their own right, Jamie Cook and Kirsty Law have joined forces to bring some of their most beloved songs together. Through their arrangements they tell stories both ancient and contemporary, in harmonies that are at times stark and dissonant, and at times warm and lush, in a mix of Scots language, Cumbrian dialect and English. Watch 'My Son David' performed by MAIK MAIK's performance will be preceded by a support slot from Jemima Thewes. Jemima sings traditional ballads and her own songs, transporting the listener through mesmeric melodies and human-fragile elemental tension that softly bewitches, and at times disconcerts, in time-altering depth and chilling folk-story beauty. 'Jemima has such a beautiful voice, with a great, original style. Her combination of darkness and irony, melancholy and delight is fantastic.' (Rosanne Cash) ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 3 May: 11:30am) Artists, performers and culture workers of all kinds are called to join Tradfest musicians and mummers on the Edinburgh and Lothians May Day procession. Gather at 11.30am at Parliament Square by St Giles Cathedral for a 12pm departure down the High Street to The Pleasance, where there will be a rally, music and stalls. Greenery and instruments welcome! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
External Venue
(Sat 3 May: 10am) Join the Family Beltane crew for a morning of mask decoration, crafting and face painting ahead of the May Day Parade. Fun for all the family, please come in Mummers costume if desired! Afterwards, all are welcome to join the May Day Parade or watch and enjoy as it passes down the High Street. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Sun 11 May: 11am, 1:30pm & 7pm) Join us for a celebration of independent film in Scotland through the lens of celebrated filmmaker Douglas Eadie. Across the day a selection of Douglas’s work will be shown including: 11am: Haston - A Life in the Mountains (plus Q&A featuring special guest, cameraman Douglas Campbell.)1:30pm: An Ceasnachadh - An Interrogation of a Highland Lass (plus Q&A with Kathleen MacInnes, Dolina MacLennan and Kenny MacRae) / Hydro Days (plus Q&A with Film Producer Christeen Whinford, Film Editor Fiona MacDonald and Film Director Robbie Fraser)7pm: Down Home (with Aly Bain, introduced by Mike Bolland who commissioned the original film for Channel 4) All hosted throughout by poet Jim Mackintosh and author James Robertson. Part of the Folk Film Gathering 2025. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Mon 5 May: 4pm) In his new book Scotland’s Sacred Goddess: Hidden in Plain Sight (Luath Press), Stuart McHardy explores the pre-Christian beliefs of the Scottish people, where the Scots had a rich mythology of stories that explained the creation and workings of the world. Join Stuart to celebrate the book and hear how these ancient beliefs are not lost but can be seen in today’s cultural and physical landscape, in a mix of ancient oral tales, place names, local rhymes and landscape shapes. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Tue 6 May: 7:30pm) A wonderful evening of stories, music and song celebrating the bothy culture of rural North East Scotland. Join ballad singer Allan Taylor, fiddler Karin Paterson and storytellers Phyll McBain and Jackie Ross for a ceilidh of land, laughter and a hearty dollop of Doric! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 May: 1:30pm) For musicians who want to be better storytellers on stage! Learn how to improve your patter and song introductions with some basic rules of storytelling. An interactive and fun session led by experienced musician and storyteller David Francis, where you will learn how to stay grounded, be aware of your audience and try different introductions to songs and music, with honest and useful feedback. Presented by the Traditional Music Forum. David Francis has been involved in folk music in Scotland for around 40 years as a folk club organiser, musician, researcher and administrator and is also involved in other aspects of the folk arts such as dance and storytelling. As a musician, David is known for his guitar and songwriting work in duo The Cast with his wife Mairi Campbell, with whom he recorded and toured in the 90s and 00s. The duo was nudged into the spotlight and temporary solvency when their version of Robert Burns’s Auld Lang Syne was picked up for the film of the hit TV show Sex and the City. He worked with the Traditional Music Forum and TRACS until his recent retirement but continues to stay involved through other organisations like the European Folk Network. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Training Venue
(Sat 10 May: 11am) Join storyteller Ailie Finlay from My Kind of Book on a fun-packed, sensory adventure for May time as we head off through the green grass and squelchy bogs of Scotland! Lively traditional tales, inclusive games and lots of props to bounce and squeeze, followed by a calming session with play dough. A fun and engaging session for everyone but particularly suitable for children with additional needs and their families and friends. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Storytelling Court
(Fri 9 May: 8:30pm) Blending historic events, Moroccan popular myths and magical fiction, this special live performance from filmmaker/storytellers Nadir Bouhmouch and Soumeya Ait Ahmed combines film, lecture and storytelling, showcasing the Tizintizwa Collective’s field recordings of ancestral oral poems, epic ballads and women's work songs to create a folktale-like account of the 20th century "Roman" conquest of Morocco from a "barbarian" perspective. Part of the Folk Film Gathering 2025. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 May: 7:30pm) TuFlamenco presents a tribute to Federico García Lorca, Spain’s most iconic poet, through Flamenco’s rhythm, dance, and poetry. Three Spanish artists - Inma Montero (dance & vocals), Danielo Olivera (guitar & vocals), and Inés Álvarez Villa (storyteller) – explore the intense connection of the poet to flamenco in all its passion, tragedy, and beauty. Join us on this celebration of the rich Spanish cultural heritage! ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Netherbow Theatre
(Sat 10 May: 2pm) A walking tour around the sights and sounds of Edinburgh’s Old Town with artist/curator Claudia Zeiske. Walk along Edinburgh’s High Street in the footsteps of philosopher/community planner Patrick Geddes, taking in the buildings, stories and green spaces that maintain Geddes’ legacy of ecology, culture and creativity. Claudia Zeiske is a cultural activist and Walking Curator. Her practice stems from Deveron Projects in rural Scotland where she was the founding Director. Here ‘the town is the venue’ rather than a gallery or arts centre based on a balanced approach between artistic criticality and community involvement. Her experiences come from participatory arts, linking local activities with global realities. You can find out more about Claudia by visiting her website. ~~~~~ Edinburgh Tradfest presents the very best traditional music and traditional arts from Scotland and around the world. This year's dates are Fri 2 – Mon 12 May 2025. Edinburgh Tradfest is run by Soundhouse, alongside programming partners at TRACS, Scottish Storytelling Centre, Queen's Hall, University of Edinburgh Celtic & Scottish Studies, Folk Film Gathering and other individual artists and creatives. Funded by Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
Meet at Scottish Storytelling Centre
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