When Music Meets Sea

Set against the rugged coastline and windswept cliffs of Kintyre, Campbeltown’s annual festival celebrates tradition, talent and song

- By BETH McHUGH

EVERY August, an electric atmosphere builds in the streets of Campbeltown as song and dance promise to fill the air. The Mull of Kintyre Music Festival – or MOK Fest, as it’s affectionately known – has been a highlight of this coastal community's calendar for more than 30 years.

As well as the big names, promising young talent is given the chance to shine, all whilst the town is at its liveliest against the backdrop of the glittering loch in the late summer sun.

MOK Fest has earned its reputation as one of Scotland’s most beloved music events by showcasing the best of Celtic culture across an impressive five-day spectacle. Its appeal spans generations and continents, with fans booking tickets from as far as Australia without even looking at the lineup.

But what is it that makes MOK Fest so unique?

“It’s a celebration of music from across the pan-Celtic world,” event manager Iain Johnston says. “We've got seven ticketed concerts. A lot of pubs and social clubs put on live music, too. We want to get visitors into the area but also give local people a chance to see some of the top bands without having to travel up to Glasgow.”

The festival opens with the legendary Beinn an Tuirc Festival Gaelic Night – a distinctive feature of MOK Fest. “That’s a night of music, song and stories – it’s a good old-fashioned Gaelic Night,” Iain says.

The magic happens when the community gets involved, and this is celebrated with Spoons Young Folk Night.

“We showcase the young musical talent from across Kintyre,” Iain adds. “We're fortunate to have a great pool of musicians to tap into. Pipe bands, brass bands, singers, dancers, Highland dancing groups – we've got all sorts.”

The festival offers many opportunities for young people to develop their skills.