September is set to be a “landmark month” for food and drink businesses across the Hebrides as two events celebrate the rich cultural heritage and local produce of the islands.
Kicking off the month’s festivities, which coincide with Scottish Food & Drink September, is the Hebridean Whisky Festival, running from September 9 to 14.
The week-long event will take place across Skye, Raasay, Harris, Benbecula, Jura, and North Uist, each offering a unique experience that “blends expert whisky tastings, behind-the-scenes tours, and local food pairings”.
As part of the festival, North Uist Distillery will host an open day on Wednesday, September 11 at its newly refurbished visitor centre, where guests can enjoy live music, sample local seafood, and taste the distinctive Downpour Gin, crafted with foraged Hebridean botanicals.
Kate MacDonald, co-founder of North Uist Distillery, added “We can’t wait to open our doors and invite visitors into our community.
“These festivals are a fantastic opportunity to showcase our craft products and the warm hospitality of our islands.
“They offer guests a chance to experience the genuine warmth of the Hebrides, enjoy local music, and sample our world-class offerings.
“September is a special time for us to celebrate our rich heritage, forge new connections, and share the unique flavours and stories of the Hebrides with everyone who visits.”
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Following the celebrations of all things whisky, the spotlight will shift to Stornoway on September 28, where the Hebridean Fine Food and Drink Festival will take place.
Organised by Eat Drink Hebrides, the regional food group established in 2016 and supported by Scotland Food & Drink to develop and promote local food and drink businesses, this festival will showcase the “incredible flavours and culinary talents of the Outer Hebrides”.
Festival go-ers will have the opportunity to engage directly with producers, sample the islands' freshest seafood, meats, and artisanal spirits, and immerse themselves in the “community-driven food culture that defines the Hebrides”.
Fiona Richmond, head of regional food at Scotland Food & Drink, said: "Events like the Hebridean Fine Food and Drink Festival and the Hebridean Whisky Festival are vital not only for attracting visitors but also for showcasing the world-class products and producers that the Scottish islands have to offer.
“These festivals provide a wonderful opportunity to welcome people into our communities and share the rich cultural heritage that makes the Hebrides so special.
“Both events take place during Scottish Food & Drink September, the month-long celebration of the best of our industry.
“Expanding from the traditional Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight, this year’s extended celebration reflects the growing success and global recognition of Scotland’s diverse and high-quality produce, including producers in the Hebrides.”
News of these events comes after a 2023 Visit Scotland survey which revealed 46% of visitors to Scotland participated in at least one food and drink experience during their trip, with 36% emphasising the importance of locally produced food and drink.
These figures are reported to rise significantly among long-haul visitors, underscoring the global appeal of Scotland's culinary offerings.
For more information on the Hebridean Fine Food and Drink Festival visit their website here and for the Hebridean Whisky Festival, here.
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