Isle of Lewis blackhouses welcome fèis youngsters
AROUND 18 Gaelic-speaking secondary school pupils made their way to Geàrrannan Blackhouses, on the Isle of Lewis, last week to take part in this year’s Fèisean nan Gàidheal, 5 Latha.
Now in its sixth year, 5 Latha offers a unique opportunity to participants to experience life in a Gaelic-speaking community, taking part in a programme of traditional activities and workshops over five days.
Throughout the week, the group was given the opportunity to learn about the Harris Tweed industry, spend a day crofting, cut peats and take part in craft and cookery workshops.
They also learned music and song with leading musicians Norrie MacIver and Robbie Greig.
Calum Alex Macmillan, Fèisean nan Gàidheal’s development manager, said: ‘ We are delighted to have attracted 18 participants to this year’s event. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the group to learn about traditional community life and the work of the area and to use and develop their language skills.
‘We are indebted to the local community at the Geàrrannan for the support and kindness they show us each year, which adds significantly to the experience gained by the participants.’
A special ceilidh was held in Carloway Community Hall, on Thursday April 12, in association with Carloway Gaelic Choir, where family and friends heard 5 Latha participants and tutors perform.
Organisers also revealed that Fèisean nan Gàidheal, with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig, will organise 5 Latha nan Oileanach for university and college students between June 5 and 10 this year. The event will be open to students who have at least an intermediate ability in the language with a range of language learning opportunities organised for the week, as well as a programme of activities.