The Southern Hebrides are celebrating island culture and heritage through numerous events over the forthcoming months as part of the Year of Scotland’s Islands festivities.

From the Tall Ships Race 2011 to the Gaelic cultural festival the islands of Gigha, Colonsay, Islay and Kintye will host a series of spectacular and exciting events.

The Mull Theatre and Wildbird are touring the islands with their production of The Mysterious Death of Netta Fornario, a gothic tale of magic, madness, murder and mystery set on Iona in 1930 and based on real events. The tour begins on Islay on 18 June then travels to Gigha on 20 June followed by Coll, Tiree, Lismore and Mull.

From 24 – 26 June the Isle of Gigha will see top Gaelic singer Gaelic singer Kathleen MacInnes and popular folk band Breabach headline as part of the Isle of Gigha Music Festival. Another highlight will be the Piper’s Picnic with music on the beach, as well as a family Ceilidh, craft market, open mic sessions and workshops in fiddle, bodhran drum and Gaelic language.

The Cantilena Festival, featuring a series of classical music concerts across Islay will be held from 3 – 8 July.

Finally, Port Ellen on Islay will welcome the Tall Ships between 14 and 16 July as they tour the islands at their leisure between competitive legs of the race.

Murdo Mackay, project leader for Western Isles council, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said:  “The variety of events taking place across the South Hebrides as part of the Year of Scotland’s Islands is a credit to the local communities and their hard work.

“In the 12 months that this initiative is running, Scotland’s Islands is supporting over 100 events with a combined budget of more than £4 million.  The diversity and quality of events that have secured funding support has been very high, and with music, art, dance, literature, theatre, and gourmet events galore, whatever your interests this is truly a year to visit Scotland’s Islands.”

The Year of Scotland’s Islands initiative aims to raise the profile of the islands across the UK and internationally, attract more visitors, bolster economic development and strengthen links between the islands and mainland cultural organisations.  The programme, which includes over 100 events across 42 islands, will showcase the music, arts, food, sport and history of the islands, as well as highlight their unique beauty as visitor destinations.

The Scotland’s Islands initiative has been developed through a partnership of the six local authorities with island communities – Argyll and Bute, Highland, North Ayrshire, Orkney, Shetland and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. Other supporters who have contributed to funding the programme include Highlands & Islands Enterprise, EventScotland, European Regional Development Fund, VisitScotland and Awards for All.

For more information on the Scotland’s Islands initiative visit: www.scotlandsislands.com

Source: Scotland’s Islands