What is a ceilidh?
Traditionally a ceilidh was an informal social gathering in someones cottage, with storytelling, poetry and Gaelic singing. Now ceilidhs refer to dances or musical gatherings which take place in village halls and pubs throughout the islands. The largest ceilidhs are during the summer, often on the evening of each villages Highland games, gala day or agricultural show. A ceilidh band usually consists of fiddles and accordions, but some also have a Clarsach (Scottish harp), guitar, drums and singer. The dancing usually centres on traditional Highland dances such as Strip the Willow, The Military Two Step and the “St Bernards Waltz.” These dances are great fun and can be for couples or groups. They are not hard to pick up and there are bound to be lots of locals who are more than willing to teach any beginners!
