The nine-day festival drew to a close today in Oban. Spanning over 12 venues throughout the west coast town – known as the cradle of the Mòd - Scotland’s premier celebration of Gaelic language, sports, art, and culture saw approximately 10,000 visitors gather; an increase of 20% up on last year, and is estimated that it will have generated over £2 million for the local economy.
Attendees from London to Lewis descended on the town to watch as over 2,600 participants competed in over 200 competitions.
Following the tradition, the Mòd flag was proudly passed to Lochaber, which will host the 2025 festival.
James Graham, chief executive officer of An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “Oban proved to be the perfect host for the 2024 Mòd and showed what an incredible epicentre for Gaelic and Celtic culture it is - 132 years since the National Mòd was first hosted here.
“Thhough much has changed, an enduring spirit and enthusiasm for Gaelic language and song remains incredibly strong. We cannot wait to be back in the Highlands in 2025.”
9. 2024 Royal National Mòd
Youngsters compete for the James C McPhee Memorial Medal, with Oban’s own Cara Joe NicAonghais,15, from Oban High School being awarded the girls trophy and Robbie Donald MacIllEathain, 13, from Castlebay Community in School in Barra winning the boys trophy and the Alexander Hamilton Trophy for the highest mark in Gaelic. Photo: Elaine Livingstone
10. 2024 Royal National Mòd
Mòd an Òban Civic Reception held in the Argyllshire Gathering Halls - pictured are Moira and Sandy Dunlop. Photo: National Mod
11. 2024 Royal National Mòd
The opening day of the Royal National Mòd is marked with the unveiling of this year’s Gaelic Ambassador of the Year – a Scottish Government honour presented to outstanding Gael who have dedicated their lives to championing the language. This year’s honour went to educator and development expert Margaret MacIver and posthumously to Gaelic activist Finlay MacLeod, collected on his behalf by his sister Margaret Wilks who each received specially commissioned commemorative plates. Photo: Submitted
12. 2024 Royal National Mòd
Oban’s Argyllshire Gathering Halls played host to the Mòd Drama Final, where it was Kilmure Drama Team from Skye who won the Premier Award, the West Highland Free Press Quaich, for their outstanding performance. Photo: Peter Sandground