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.”
13. 2024 Royal National Mòd
A packed torchlit procession through the streets of Oban, led by Oban Pipe Band, Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, members of An Comunn Gàidhealach and the local organising committee. Undeterred by the west coast weather, the Oban community came out in force to witness the spectacle and follow the procession from Station Square, along the esplanade to the event’s flagship event, The Corran Halls. Photo: Elaine Livingstone
14. 2024 Royal National Mòd
Sileas Sinclair conducts Oban Gaelic Choir on stage during the Area Choirs competition at The Royal National Mòd 2024 in Oban, Friday 18 October 2024 Oban Gaelic Choir took home the Lovat and Tullibardine Shield for their fourth consecutive Mòd, making history at their hometown event and the birthplace of the Mòd as the first choir to win the title four years running. Govan Gaelic Choir won the Margret Duncan Memorial Trophy led by their talented conductor Kathryn Callender, who also hails from Oban. Photo: Elaine Livingstone
