The Royal National Mòd, the world's largest Scottish Gaelic festival, began in Glasgow on Friday with an Opening Concert at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.
Celebrating 40 years of Gaelic education
The event was hosted by BBC star Phil MacHugh and his cousin, presenter Carrie MacNeil. The pair were among the first pupils to join the Sir Maxwell Gaelic Medium Education unit in Glasgow when it opened in 1985.
In a celebration of Gaelic heritage, art and literature, the pair guided audiences through an evening of music, song and film celebrating 40 years of Gaelic education in the city.
Concert highlights
The concert, Ar Cànan ’s Ar Ceòl, took attendees on a nostalgic journey from the early years of the Sir John Maxwell School unit in the 80s, right up to the present day, where the city now boasts five thriving Gaelic schools.
Ticket holders watched a special film, accompanied by a score provided by an orchestra of past and present pupils, with guest musicians performing across the night.
Performers' reflections
Phil, who hosts TV show Scottish Fling alongside pal Martin Compston, said he felt privileged to take part in the festival after his own experiences being brought up with the Gaelic language.
He said: "My connection to Gaelic runs deep. I was proudly educated through Gaelic Medium Education at Sir John Maxwell and Hillpark Gaelic Unit going through the system from the age of 4 to 17.
"That education opened so many doors for my future and gave me memories, friendships and opportunities beyond anything I could have imagined. Gaelic has played a huge part in shaping who I am, and it’s fantastic to see the language, culture and community celebrated on such a significant stage.
"The Mòd is a wonderful celebration of everything Gaelic represents, and I’m proud to be part of it in Glasgow in 2026."
Carrie MacNeil added: "My family were involved in establishing GME, with my mum being its first teacher and my siblings and cousins among the first cohorts. From the beginning, GME created a strong Gaelic community and gave hope for the future of the language and culture. The opportunities afforded to me through GME have shaped my whole life. Having recently become a Gaelic teacher in the city, I am in awe of how far GME has come since those early days."
Festival schedule
The Royal National Mòd began in Oban in 1891 and takes place annually in October in locations across Scotland.
This year's event runs from 9 – 17 October 2026, with 300 concerts, competitions, cèilidhs, exhibitions, talks and performances scheduled for its 10,000 visitors.
