The 133rd Royal National Mòd has drawn to a close in Lochaber after nine days of music, language and cultural celebration, with organisers hailing the event as a major success.
Paisley was among the standout areas represented this year. Còisir Ghàidhlig Fèis Phàislig — the Paisley Fèis Gaelic Choir — swept the board in the Choral Unison Learner under-13 competition, lifting all three trophies on offer under the direction of Mairi McGillivray and Ellen MacDonald.
Maggie Cunningham, Chair of An Comunn Gàidhealach, said: “Lochaber has been an outstanding host for the Royal National Mòd 2025, showcasing its deep connection to Gaelic language, music and culture. The energy and enthusiasm we’ve seen over the past nine days have been truly inspiring, and it’s clear that the spirit of the Gaels is alive and thriving here in the Highlands.”
She added: “We are immensely grateful to everyone who made this year’s event such a resounding success – from our dedicated partners, sponsors, and local organisers to the incredible volunteers, performers, competitors, and visitors who brought this celebration to life.”
The festival welcomed around 10,000 attendees and featured more than 300 events, with hundreds of trophies and medals awarded. A highlight was the Massed Choirs performance in Cameron Square, followed by the handing over of the Mòd flag to Glasgow, which will host the 2026 event.
Glasgow Gaelic Music Association (the GGs) and Lochaber Gaelic Choir took home the top choral honours on the final day.
Iseabail MacTaggart, conductor of the GGs, said: “On stage, it felt like we were absolutely as one as a choir and that’s not easy on a stage like this, but we absolutely connected.”
Lochaber Gaelic Choir conductor Mary Ann Kennedy said: “To win at home means so much. We knew we just had to do what we had worked to do and trust that it would find its way out into the hall.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “This year’s Mòd has showcased the vibrancy and relevance of Gaelic to modern Scotland while also delivering significant benefits to the economy.”
Councillor Bremner of Highland Council said: “It has been a truly memorable Royal National Mòd, showcasing and celebrating the very best of the Gaelic, culture and hospitality for which Lochaber is so renowned.”
Rob Dickson of VisitScotland said: “Over the course of nine days across various venues, Gaelic language, culture, sport, and art were on display as audiences from around the world descended on the Highlands.”
Ealasaid MacDonald, CEO of Bòrd na Gàidhlig, said: “Abair Mòd! Lochaber should be very proud of what they have achieved.”
Iain Robertson, Chair of the Lochaber Local Organising Committee, said: “The real magic comes from those attending… our thanks go to each and every entrant, judge, artist, musician, speaker and spectator.”
Bailie Annette Christie of Glasgow Life said: “Glasgow can’t wait to welcome back the Royal National Mòd in October 2026.”
The Royal National Mòd returns to Glasgow from 9th to 17th October 2026.
Photo Credit: In the Choral Unison Learners Under 13 category, first place was awarded to Còisir Ghàidhlig Fèis Phàislig (Paisley Fèis Gaelic Choir), under the expert direction of conductors Mairi McGillvery and Ellen MacDonald. Their standout performance swept the board, earning them all three tropies for Gaelic and Music on offer, including The Donald & Mamie MacPhail, The Darlington Society Silver Jubilee and The Morag Robb Memorial Trophy