Young people will have an opportunity to enrich their Gaelic language skills during the Easter holidays when they gather for a special event in Lewis.
Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s 5 Latha event returns to the Geàrrannan Blackhouses this week with around 18 young people from across Scotland attending.
The initiative gives young Gaelic speakers, of high school age, a chance to experience a Gaelic speaking community where they take part in a wide range of cultural and musical activities, allowing them to use their Gaelic and expand their vocabulary.
Activities provide participants with first-hand experience of crofting life as well
as learning about fishing practices, local wildlife, the Harris Tweed industry and
traditional island recipes.
They will also take part in music and song workshops with Iain MacMaster (Glenfinnan Cèilidh Band) and Ellen MacDonald (Sian/Dàimh). Renowned singer and local tradition bearer, Margaret Stewart, will lead a session on traditional working songs.
Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s development manager, Calum Alex Macmillan, said: “We are really looking forward to returning to the Geàrrannan Blackhouses for 5 Latha. Since establishing the event in 2012 we have welcomed over 200 participants, all of whom have been eager to take part in the activities which are part of our programme.”
A community cèilidh will be held in partnership with Carloway Gaelic Choir with participants and tutors alongside members of the choir and a warm welcome is extended to all.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “This event is an opportunity for young Gaelic speakers to improve their fluency in the language. We recognise that for Gaelic to flourish it needs to be used regularly in communities where it is traditionally spoken through events like 5 Latha.”
“That’s why the Scottish Government is progressing the Scottish Languages Bill in Parliament. The Bill aims to increase provision of Gaelic medium education and promote investment in communities where the language is traditionally spoken.”
“To support Gaelic’s growth across Scotland, we are also providing an extra £5.7
million for initiatives to promote the language in 2025-26.”
Ealasaid MacDonald, Ceannard (CEO), Bòrd na Gàidhlig, said: “Bòrd na Gàidhlig is delighted to continue our support of Fèisean nan Gàidheal and the 5 Latha event again this year. It's great to see young people coming together in their community to have fun, learn, and speak Gaelic together."
Young people strengthening Gaelic language skills during Lewis visit
6 April 2025