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Mòd brought millions to Lochaber economy, says report

Eilidh DaviesBBC Scotland
News imageElaine Livingstone A row of pipers lead the torchlight procession through Fort William. The pipers are wearing different tartans and behind them a large number of people carry flaming torches.Elaine Livingstone
A torchlight procession led by pipers during the Lochaber Mòd

The Royal National Mòd in Lochaber generated almost £4m for the local economy, according to a new report.

Organisers, An Comunn Gàidhealach, said last year's celebration of Gaelic language and culture was one of the most successful in its more than 130-year history.

The nine-day event in Fort William attracted about 10,000 visitors, competitors and musicians.

The report commissioned by An Comunn Gàidhealach estimated Lochaber 2025 brought in £3.9m.

The study involved more than 460 people.

The survey suggested 95% of them visited local restaurants, cafes and pubs, almost 90% went to local shops and 72% visited tourist attractions.

An estimated 69 full-time equivalent jobs were created, an achievement recognised with a prize for community impact at last month's MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards.

Lochaber 2025 in pictures

News imageElaine Livingstone Joy Dunlop is standing outside in front of a large group of people. She has long blonde hair and is wearing a long, light blue tweed jacket. She has her arms raised as she sings to the crowd.Elaine Livingstone
News imageElaine Livingstone Finlay John Morse and Caitlyn Yule pose beside the locomotive of the Jacobite steam train. Finlay is wearing a kilt of brown and purple colours, a black jacket and waistcoat over a white shirt and green tie. He has a shaven head and designer stubble. He is smiling. Caitlyn has black trousers, a white top and long fair hair. She is smiling as both her and Finlay look off into the distance.Elaine Livingstone
BBC Scotland weather presenter and former gold medal-winning singer Joy Dunlop leads a song during an outdoor performance by Gaelic choirs in Fort William in October
Gold medal winners for singing, Finlay John Morse and Caitlyn Yule, pose with the Jacobite steam train locomotive following their successes at Lochaber 2025

Deputy First Minister and Highland MSP Kate Forbes said the report demonstrated the significant economic and social impact the Mòd delivered.

Peigi MacLennan, chief executive of An Comunn Gàidhealach, described the Mòd as the world's largest Scottish Gaelic cultural showcase.

Highland Council leader Raymond Bremner added: "Although the Mòd lasts for just over a week, the events leave a hugely positive legacy that endures for years.

"It generates money for local business, and it inspires and encourages so many people to use and develop Gaelic skills."

It was the ninth time the event had visited Lochaber. The first time it was held there was in 1922.

Glasgow is to host the Mòd later this year and then the Western Isles in 2027.

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