The North Atlantic Fiddle Convention (NAFCo) has been nominated for a major national award following a hugely successful celebration which brought thousands of musicians, dancers and visitors to Aberdeen and the North-east, generating an economic impact of almost £1million.
The festival is in the running for Event of the Year, sponsored by VisitScotland, at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards 2026, following the 25th anniversary convention held from 24 to 28 June.
The programme also delivered a year of NAFCo teaser events, including appearances at the Tall Ships in Aberdeen and Celtic Connections in Glasgow, as well as community ceilidhs and outreach sessions in schools across the north east.
Founded in Aberdeen in 2001 by the late Dr Ian Russell of the University of Aberdeen’s Elphinstone Institute, NAFCo has grown into an internationally renowned celebration of traditional music, dance and culture.
Lord Provost with Lady Provost and Festival Directors Laura Harrington (left) and Kirsty Clements (back). Credit - NAFCo
Led by the Elphinstone Institute, NAFCo 2026 brought together world-class musicians, dancers, academics, young people and traditional music and dance enthusiasts, delivering 157 events including concerts, workshops, talks, performances, outreach sessions and community celebrations across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Among the highlights was the Big NAFCo Gathering at Union Terrace Gardens, where more than 400 people came together to play music, dance a waltz and take part in a giant Orcadian Strip the Willow.
NAFCo also placed a strong focus on the next generation of traditional musicians through its International Youth Celebration, alongside opportunities for emerging performers to share stages and sessions with established artists from across the North Atlantic and beyond.
Troy MacGillivray Liz Doherty and Janine Randall play at NAFCo 2026. Credit - Mary Masson
Commenting on the nomination, festival director Laura Harrington said: “We are absolutely delighted to be nominated for Event of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards.”
“Celebrating NAFCo’s 25th anniversary in Aberdeen, the city where it all began, was a truly special occasion. It was wonderful to see so many people embrace the convention, with thousands joining us across five fantastic days filled with music, dance, culture, friendship and a real sense of community.
“To now be shortlisted alongside amazing events in the traditional music scene is a real honour and a wonderful way to round off an unforgettable year.”
Opening headline artists Duncan Chisholm (back left) and Shane Cook The Woodchippers with Festival Directors Kirsty Clements (left) and Laura Harrington (right)
Fellow festival director Kirsty Clements added, “What really stood out was the incredible sense of community. Musicians, dancers, audiences, volunteers, young people and visitors from around the world all played a part in creating the atmosphere and energy that made the event so special.
“This nomination belongs to everyone who helped make it happen, including our artists, volunteers, partners, funders, sponsors and the communities across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire who supported us.
“We are immensely proud of what we achieved together and hope everyone who was part of it feels they can share in this nomination.”
Uniquely combining a major traditional music festival with an international academic conference, NAFCo brings performance, research and participation together, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration between different traditions and generations.
The Big NAFCo Gatherin at Union Terrace Gardens. Credit - Papermill Productions
Over the past quarter of a century, NAFCo has been hosted in Scotland, Ireland, Canada and the USA, with the convention traditionally alternating between Aberdeen and international host destinations.
Plans are already under way for the convention’s next chapter, with the next international gathering confirmed for 25 to 30 July 2028. The host location is being kept under wraps for the time being, with an announcement to follow.
The MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards celebrate Scotland’s traditional music community, recognising artists, events, organisations and individuals who contribute to the strength and development of the sector.
The awards are decided by public vote, with online voting now open until 15 November. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Saturday 5 December at the Lagoon Centre in Paisley.