The Royal National Mòd is coming to Glasgow this year, taking place between October 9 and 17. With a whopping 300 events planned for 2026, festival-goers can expect concerts, ceilidhs, talks, exhibitions, competitions and more, all celebrating the best of Gaelic language and culture.
The Royal National Mòd opening concert, Ar Cànan ’s Ar Ceòl, is taking place at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Friday, October 9, with proud Gael and TV personality Phil MacHugh confirmed to host the event. Joined by presenter and his cousin Catrìona (Carrie) MacNeil, the pair will take guests on a journey back to the opening of Sir John Maxwell Gaelic Medium Education, which they have both been among the first students at.
Now, Glasgow boasts five Gaelic schools, with the event celebrating the thriving scene with a special film and accompanied by a score provided by an orchestra of past and present pupils, as well as guest musicians performing across the night, all celebrating Gaelic language, music, culture and the importance of education.
Phil MacHugh said: “It is a real privilege to take part in and show my support for the 2026 Royal National Mòd in Glasgow. 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 said: “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.
“What we have today is a testament to the hard work of those who have championed it through the years, and it is a privilege to now contribute to that. I see first-hand the impact GME has, not only on individuals, but in building and sustaining a thriving Gaelic community in Glasgow.”
You can get your tickets to the Opening Concert, as well as other Royal National Mòd events here.
