HebCelt Festival has once again demonstrated its vital role in the community, with an economic impact of £4 million for the local economy in 2024.

The much-loved festival, which continues to draw visitors from across the globe, has become a cornerstone for supporting local businesses and enhancing the cultural landscape of the Outer Hebrides.

The figures, revealed in a recent in-house report, highlight the significant contribution of the festival to the islands' economy through visitor spending, accommodation bookings, and support for local suppliers and services.

Taking place between Wednesday 17th and Saturday 20th July 2024, the festival welcomed over 17,800 music lovers to the spectacular Lews Castle Grounds. The report found that 67% of visitors cited HebCelt as their 'sole reason' or 'main reason' for visiting Lewis and Harris, with 24% coinciding their trip with visits to friends and family.

The £4 million injection from 2024, brings the total economic impact of the Outer Hebridean festival to £38 million over its 27-year history.

Visitors spent over a week – an average of 8 days – on Lewis and Harris, demonstrating that while HebCelt was a deciding factor in their visit to the area, they spent time on either side of the event enjoying the local area and all it has to offer.

A total of 83 performances, including 50 in the main arena, nine late night sessions, four at An Lanntair, two at Breasclete and four family concerts, took place over the course of the week, with loyal fans coming from near and far to make the most of the outstanding celebration of music, Celtic and Gaelic culture on offer. Out of 235 performers profiled, 45% were based on Lewis and Harris, demonstrating the festival’s commitment to supporting local musicians, and highlighting the wealth of local talent coming from the Outer Hebrides.

The ongoing partnership with Isle of Harris Distillers as the sponsor of the Acoustic Stage, now known as the Isle of Harris Gin Cèilidh Tent, opened up performance slots for local up and coming musicians, making them an integral part of the festival line up.

Following these successes, Early Bird tickets for the 2025 edition sold out in August, with the allocation being snapped up by local music lovers and keen festival-goers from as far away as the USA, Canada, Norway, Germany and Spain.

In addition to these achievements, HebCelt has seen changes in its leadership. In 2024, Iain MacPhail, who has been the festival’s Site Manager for over a decade, took on the role of Chair of the Board, following the departure of long-serving Chair Gayle Findlay. Iain brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the festival's operations to his new role. Alongside him, Eilidh Laing, a lifelong supporter of HebCelt with extensive experience across various roles within the festival, has been appointed as Vice Chair. These leadership changes mark an exciting new chapter for HebCelt as it continues to evolve and grow.

Iain MacPhail, Chair of the HebCelt Board, said: "HebCelt is more than a music festival—it's a celebration of our heritage, community, and the exceptional talent that flourishes here in the Outer Hebrides. The £4 million impact highlights not only the festival’s success but also the ongoing support and engagement from everyone involved, from our committed volunteers to the local businesses and artists who bring it to life.

Having been a part of the HebCelt family for over 20 years, including 12 years as Site Manager, I’ve seen firsthand the festival's profound effect on our local economy and cultural landscape. As Chair, I’m excited to help shape its future, ensuring we continue to champion local talent, enrich our community, and welcome visitors from around the globe to experience the best of Hebridean culture and hospitality."

With next year’s festival already in the works, the HebCelt team are eager to continue building on this success and ensuring that the festival remains a vital part of the Hebrides' economy and culture for years to come.

Next year’s HebCelt will take place 16-19 July 2025.

For the latest news on 2025 ticket release, sign up to the festival mailing list: www.hebceltfest.com/mailing-list/

HebCelt is supported by Creative Scotland, EventScotland and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.