While Shetland is globally renowned for its rich folk and fiddle traditions, this debut event celebrated a different facet of Shetland's musical talent—a stage for heavier music, cover bands, and the islands’ homegrown legends. It was a weekend where the community came together to celebrate the diversity and dynamism of Shetland’s musical offerings.
Music is at the heart of Shetland’s community, and the Rising North Festival brought a fresh and exciting twist to the local music scene.
Inspired in part by the success of the Tall Ships Lerwick event, the idea for Rising North had been brewing long before its debut in 2024. For years, cover bands and original acts with a modern, heavier sound have been a staple of Shetland’s pubs and private gatherings, carving out their own space within the local nightlife. The Rising North Festival was an ambitious step forward, bringing these bands together under one banner for a weekend of music, camaraderie, and celebration.
The festivities kicked off on Friday night with performances across Lerwick’s pubs and bars. These free events saw venues packed with locals eager to support their favourite bands and discover new ones. It was a fantastic start, showcasing the broad appeal of the island’s music scene and setting the tone for a weekend of entertainment.
However, the real highlight of the festival was the Saturday night at Clickimin, where the main event drew over 1,000 people. From 7 pm to midnight, the stage came alive with powerful performances as bands delivered a mix of original tracks and beloved covers. The energy in the room was electric, with the crowd fully immersed in the music and the sense of community that pervades Shetland. Tickets for this event sold out in minutes, underscoring the demand for such an evening and marking the night as a massive success. It was a night to remember, further solidifying Shetland’s reputation as a hub for live music.
Sunday offered a different vibe with a daytime event at Mareel, Shetland’s premier arts venue. The space, known for its incredible acoustics and welcoming atmosphere, was the perfect setting for a more relaxed yet equally engaging experience. Acoustic sets and heavier bands alike took to the stage, providing a diverse range of performances that catered to all tastes. Families and music lovers alike enjoyed the opportunity to experience live music in such a versatile and inspiring environment, rounding off the weekend on a high note.
The sense of community that defines Shetland was evident throughout the weekend. The Rising North Festival wasn’t just a series of gigs; it was a celebration of the island’s collective spirit. Local businesses played a crucial role in supporting the festival, from sponsoring events to providing spaces for performances. Volunteers, too, were at the heart of the festival's success, embodying the island’s ethos of helping one another to create something truly special.
The Rising North Festival also highlighted the impressive array of talent that exists within Shetland. While the island may be small, its music scene is mighty, and the festival was a testament to the creativity and passion that drives local musicians. Bands that have honed their craft in intimate settings like the Marlex and The Lounge had the chance to perform in front of larger audiences, gaining the recognition they deserve.
Looking forward, the success of the Rising North Festival has set the stage for future events that continue to showcase the breadth of Shetland’s musical talent. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, there’s no denying that Shetland’s music scene is as vibrant and diverse as the landscape that surrounds it. And with festivals like Rising North, that scene is only set to grow stronger, bringing people together in celebration of what makes this island so remarkable.
The Rising North Festival is planned again for summer next year, from the 15th to the 17th of August 2025.