A long-running traditional music festival will bring thousands to a north Moray village this weekend, with organisers and council leaders asking local people to plan journeys ahead and support businesses in Fochabers.
What to expect in Fochabers
Speyfest, which has been staged since 1995, begins on Friday and is expected to attract around 4,500 visitors over the weekend. The programme features contemporary and traditional Scottish acts, including Tide Lines and Elephant Sessions, together with food, drink and family activities around the village.
Traffic and local access
Temporary traffic management measures will be in place on the A96 during festival set-up and over the weekend. Local authorities and the festival’s organisers have urged anyone travelling to allow extra time and to follow signage and marshals at peak times.
- Expected visitors: approximately 4,500
- Location: Fochabers, Moray
- Road impacts: temporary traffic management on the A96
“Speyfest is one of Moray’s most cherished events, bringing together outstanding music, community spirit and visitors from across Scotland and further afield,”
This is how Councillor John Cowe, civic leader for Moray, described the festival. He added that the event “makes a significant contribution to our local economy” and reassured residents that Fochabers remains open for business during the weekend.
Impact on local businesses and community
Ashleigh Macgregor, chair of the festival, said the event is designed to bring people together and provide a boost for the local area. She acknowledged that traffic management may lengthen journeys but said the festival experience would be worth the delay.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Festival | Speyfest |
| Location | Fochabers, Moray |
| Expected visitors | ~4,500 |
| Notable acts | Tide Lines; Elephant Sessions |
Both the council and festival organisers have encouraged residents to support local shops, cafes and accommodation providers while the event runs. They said businesses in the area are prepared to welcome visitors and that the festival helps to showcase what the community offers.
For anyone planning to travel through Moray this weekend, the practical message from local leaders is clear: expect some disruption on routes into Fochabers, follow temporary traffic controls and consider using alternative travel arrangements where possible.
