From Barra to Buenos Aires: Worldwide Gaelic celebration just around the corner
The Gaelic language is set to be celebrated around the world in less than two weeks' time as Seachdain na Gàidhlig, World Gaelic Week, gets set to return from 24th February - 2nd March.
Article Source: Seachdain na Gàidhlig (World Gaelic Week)
Last Updated: 12 February 2025 11:19
Everyone from lifelong speakers and enthusiastic learners to those curious about the language and Scottish culture are being encouraged to get involved.
Events which showcase how the language builds connections, marking this year’s theme – Ceanglaichean gun Chrìch (pronounced kyeh-leech-un gun chreech), are set to take place around the world, from Barra to Buenos Aires.
With more than 170,000 people stating they have “some skills in Gaelic” or are able to understand or speak the language in the last Scottish census; a growing number of speakers in urban areas and cities; and two million worldwide signed up to learn Gaelic on Duolingo, the language continues to grow in popularity and prevalence.
Organised to connect communities, spark conversations, and inspire the next generation of Gaelic speakers, the week promises a packed schedule filled with music performances, storytelling sessions, workshops and discussions.
More than 100 activities globally are expected to champion the resilience and vibrancy of Gaelic as living language for this year’s event.
Hundreds of schoolchildren across the country will take part in daily online workshops led by Seachdain na Gàidhlig. While Say a Gaelic Phrase Day on Thursday 27th February will allow anyone around the world to have a crack at speaking Gaelic on social media.
As well as the 60 groups across Scotland and beyond awarded funding through the initiative’s Small Grants Fund, supported by Bòrd na Gàidhlig, to stage events and activities, hundreds more individuals, businesses and organisations are planning their own events to mark the occasion.
From a night geared towards Gaelic speakers in The Park Bar (Glasgow) and a Gaelic song workshop led by Deirdre Graham in Applecross, to an online Gaelic mindfulness session and a celebratory ceilidh on Mull, there is something for everyone across the week.
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig Gaelic college on the Isle of Skye is hosting a Gaelic T-Shirt Day on 26th February, while the Scottish Storytelling Centre is hosting a Gaelic Songs and Stories Workshop. In Edinburgh, TheNational Library of Scotland welcomes an evening of music and song from six-piece Gaelic band Amadan, a creative writing session on Uncovering Queer Gaelic Voices in Gaelic, and a play featuring primary 7 pupils from Bun-sgoil Taobh na Pàirc who will tell the story of the Highland Clearances.
In South America, Gaelic Argentina is staging Buenos Aires Gaèlica – a celebration marking 200 years since Gaelic settlers arrived in Buenos Aires and highlighting the language’s global footprint.
There will also be the return of the much-loved Gaelic Meme Machine competition on Facebook. Previously announced events funded by Bord na Gàidhlig include a tie up between Gaelic singer Mischa Macpherson and Refuweegee, while elsewhere Keep Scotland Beautiful are hosting a series of activities around Gaelic place names.
Individuals, schools, community groups and organisations with any level of Gaelic can still register to host an activity in their community that promotes the language and builds connections. Events can be added to the World Gaelic Week website at seachdainnagaidhlig.scot.
Joy Dunlop, Director of Seachdain na Gàidhlig, said: “Gaelic is a relevant, exciting language with an invaluable place in Scotland today. Seachdain na Gàidhlig aims to further promote its use and demonstrate its richness, relevance and importance to our everyday lives. Most of all, language is a connector and this year we’re inviting everyone from around the world to connect with home, with one another, with something new and experience World Gaelic Week in whichever way works for them. The wait is nearly over for this year’s celebration and we plan on making it our most successful to date.”
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “Each year Seachdain na Gàidhlig demonstrates the dynamism and innovation of Gaelic culture. Within just a few years it has grown to become a key event within the language’s calendar – illustrating the demand for Gaelic which exists across Scotland and the world.
“This year’s theme of Ceanglaichean gun Chrìch speaks to the essential truth that language is something which unites us and opens our horizons – a point ably demonstrated by the diverse schedule of events being offered.
“I look forward to engaging with Seachdain na Gàidhlig and seeing it continue to build on its ongoing success.”
Organised by Scottish traditional culture and music organisation Hands Up For Trad, with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Seachdain na Gàidhlig was inspired by the success of other minority language initiatives such as Seachtain na Gaeilge in Ireland and Mìos nan Gàidheal in Nova Scotia.
The week-long celebration gives Scottish Gaelic speakers, learners and supporters the opportunity to celebrate the language at home and internationally and drives national recognition and awareness.
Seachdain na Gàidhlig 2025 will take place from 24th February - 2nd March 2025. For a full list of events running throughout the week, or to add your own and access information on how to get involved, visit: www.seachdainnagaidhlig.scot
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Next generation of professionals are on the UP
DLA Piper returns to 2025 with more rewarding network events for next generation professionals following resounding success last year.
READ MORE
Celebrate in STYLE at St James Quarter this Valentines Day
St Valentine might be the patron saint of love, but St James has got your celebrations covered.
READ MORE
Perth Ski School invites Edinburgh ski enthusiasts to hit the slopes this Spring
Edinburgh families have an exciting new option for children's and adults ski lessons this year, following the opening of Perth Ski School.
READ MORE
From Barra to Buenos Aires: Worldwide Gaelic celebration just around the corner
The Gaelic language is set to be celebrated around the world in less than two weeks' time as Seachdain na Gàidhlig, World Gaelic Week, gets set to return from 24th February - 2nd March.
READ MORE
The Rocky Horror Show tour smashes records
The Rocky Horror Show has once again cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon, with the 2024/2025 tour being the most successful ever staged in the show's 50+ year history!
READ MORE
Forever Edinburgh invites residents to fall in love with their city
This Valentine’s Day, Forever Edinburgh is making it easier than ever for residents to fall in love with their city all over again with exclusive Resident Rewards.
READ MORE
Cineworld is the best place to enjoy both new Captain America and Bridget Jones movies
Set to be this year’s Barbenheimer, the two hotly anticipated films will be shown across a range of formats at Cineworld, where spectacular offers and merch will make your date night unforgettable.
READ MORE
Singer championed by Eddie Vedder announced as Roger Daltrey tour special guest
Legendary rock singer Roger Daltrey has announced Linka Moja as the special guest who will be joining him on his UK tour in April and May.
READ MORE
Edinburgh Brunch Bar to Offer Free Cocktail to Customers to celebrate relaunch
To celebrate this exciting new chapter and share the Valentine’s Day love, Sip & Bark is offering a free cocktail to all customers on Friday, February 14th.
READ MORE
New smash burger joint opening in Edinburgh with big burger giveaway
SoBe Burgers, the Miami-style smash-burger brand, will celebrate landing in Edinburgh on 14 February by offering a free burger to its first 50 customers.
READ MORE
Free Ben & Jerrys in Edinburgh, for those with a special name...
This Valentine’s Day, Ben & Jerry’s is spreading the love – with a free sweet treat for anyone whose name is Bridget, Ben or Jerry.
READ MORE
Edinburgh Zoo welcomes two adorable capybaras in time for half term
Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed the arrival of two adorable capybaras in time for the February half term.
READ MORE
Haggis eating champion teams up with Innis & Gunn to offer one day unlimited steak frites
A SCOTTISH brewer is offering unlimited steak frites this Palentine’s Day – and a competitive eater has put the generous offer to the test.
READ MORE
Pioneering Scottish artist Georgia Cecile set to perform in Edinburgh this month
Georgia is leading the jazz and soul revival in a year that is destined to be big for her.
READ MORE
Top Scottish chef opens first fish restaurant on Edinburgh waterfront
One of Scotland’s most acclaimed chefs is opening the doors to his first independent fish restaurant on Edinburgh’s waterfront at the Shore in Leith on Wednesday 12th February.
READ MORE
Scottish architecture and design studio appointed for refurbishment of Fringe Central
Studio LBA, has been appointed as architect by the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society for the refurbishment and creation of Fringe Central, the new, year-round home for the Edinburgh Fringe.
READ MORE
Refurbished Cafe Portrait to reopen at National Galleries Scotland Portrait
On Saturday 8 February, Heritage Portfolio, the specialist events and catering company, will reopen the fully refurbished Café Portrait at the National Galleries Scotland: Portrait.
READ MORE
Hostelling Scotland launches appeal for Gen Z board members to help put the youth back into hostelling
THE organisation behind one of Scotland's most historic travel traditions is calling for young people to join its board as it seeks to capitalise on a surge in interest amongst Gen Z travellers.
READ MORE
The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show returns to Glasgow
Here's everything you need to know about the biggest show of its kind in Scotland!
READ MORE
Significant pledge of support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for Leith Theatre
Leith Theatre Trust today revealed that it has secured a significant funding package potentially worth £4.5m from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
READ MORE
National Lottery funding award for Community Outreach Officer at Edinburgh Open Workshop
Edinburgh Open Workshop is delighted to announce that we have been awarded funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to support a new Community Outreach Officer.
READ MORE
Jump into February Half Term Fun at Gravity Active Edinburgh
Searching for the ultimate family adventure this February Half Term? Look no further than Gravity Active Edinburgh!
READ MORE
First Gigs on Sale for Edinburgh Tradfest
Edinburgh Tradfest is delighted to announce the first of its gigs for 2025 are now on sale.
READ MORE
Lost Shore Surf Resort Introduces Ultimate Surf Getaway
Lost Shore Surf Resort is celebrating its growing popularity by introducing an exciting new “Surf and Stay” package.
READ MORE
Stellar line up of leaders unite to influence a better future of work in Scotland
Award winning authors, a former SAS soldier, along with HR leaders from Scotland’s top employers are among the speakers for the CIPD Scotland Annual Conference, 2025.
READ MORE
Bonjour, burger lovers... love is in the air!
Fat Hippo gets frisky with 'Le French Kiss' this Valentine's Day!
READ MORE
Brand new experience to celebrate Mothers Day at Dobbies
This March, Dobbies Garden Centres is offering a new hands-on Mother's Day experience, combining a luxury Afternoon Tea with a seasonal planting workshop.
READ MORE
GC Live raises over thousands for Cash for Kids Mission Christmas Campaign
This year’s Starry Nights event at Beecraigs Country Park and the Fawkes Festival at the Royal Highland Centre raised a combined £6,000 for Cash for Kids Edinburgh, The Lothians, Fife, and Falkirk.
READ MORE
Dynamic Earth Extends Biggest Hands On Careers Showcase in Scotland
Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium, is excited to announce the return and extension of its School Careers Showcase: Your Planet, Your Future.
READ MORE
February at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
From Valentine's Day to Rugby, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events this February!
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links