The Eilean Dorcha Festival has generated over half a million for the Uist economy, according to an independent economic assessment.
The two-
Research undertaken by MKA Economics, Stirling, highlighted 3,374 ticket sales over the weekend, a 12% increase on 2017.
Half who attended were local, with the rest from mainland Scotland and all over the world
Of those who travelled to the festival, some 20% were making their first visit to the Western Isles.
Three quarters of visitors stayed on the Uists for more than three nights, compared to 61% in 2017
More than 85% of respondents rated the festival experience as either ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’
Eilean Dorcha Festival development manager Roddy MacKay said: “It is our first priority to put on a great show and offer fun activities for individuals of all ages, so it is great to know we attracted a record crowd, with the vast majority rating the festival experience as either ‘very good’ or ‘excellent.
“In addition to the overall experience, it is important EDF delivers a substantial economic benefit for local businesses.
“It is encouraging to understand that our visitor numbers are increasing, people are staying for longer and wish to come back to the islands.
“On top of that they delivered an incredible local spend of more than half a million pounds.”
He added: “It is our ambition to build on this success, enhance the festival experience
even further, and make Eilean Dorcha Festival an unmissable occasion and the islands
a must-
“We would welcome local people or businesses to get in touch with us if they would like to know more about getting involved with the festival next year in any capacity, whether trading, volunteering, performing or sponsorship.”
Music festival delivers economic boost for Uist
6 November 2018
