The largest traditional music event in Moray will have a country flavour for the first time this year.
For more than two decades, Speyfest has hosted Celtic and ceilidh music in a tented village in Fochabers.
But, in its 22nd year, a special country slot has been organised for the final day of the festival due to the genre’s growing popularity.
A “Celtic meets country showcase” line-up of bands and solo singers has been arranged as an addition to the regular programme.
Organiser, Ashleigh MacGregor, said: “Country music is appealing to more people these days, it’s becoming more of an in-thing with people.
“Speyfest has always been about Celtic and traditional music, so it’s going to have a bit of a twist on it this year with the country music.”
Ska group Bombskare, a favourite from previous stomps at the bash, have been confirmed on the bill for the event.
The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Blazin’ Fiddles and Claire Hastings will also be making the trip to Fochabers during the summer.
However, Mrs MacGregor stressed that the popular festival was not just about the music on stage.
She added: “We try to make it as friendly as possible for families. It’s something we have in mind when arranging the concerts and stomps.
“But we also try and organise other events like music workshops and gin tastings too.”
Speyfest runs from Friday, July 28 until Sunday, July 30 in Fochabers. Tickets for all sessions go on sale on Friday, April 28 online at www.speyfest.com and from Sound and Vision in Elgin.
