The Islay Festival of Music & Malt
Fèis Ìle (pronounced "FAYSH EE-luh") is Islay's annual celebration of whisky, music, and culture. The 40th anniversary festival ran from 22-31 May 2026 — for the first time a ten-day programme — and welcomed Ian Macleod's newly opened Laggan Bay as its newest participating distillery.
Each day of the festival is dedicated to a different distillery, featuring exclusive bottlings, special tours, tastings, and events that you can't experience at any other time of the year. It's not just about whisky - the festival celebrates Islay's rich Gaelic heritage with traditional music, dancing, and storytelling.
What makes Fèis Ìle special is the intimate, community atmosphere. Unlike large commercial festivals, this celebration maintains its authentic Scottish character, where visitors become part of the island community for an unforgettable week. Looking ahead, Fèis Ìle 2027 takes place from Friday 28 May to Sunday 6 June — accommodation and ferry bookings traditionally open from autumn the previous year.
Each participating distillery hosts special open days with exclusive tastings, tours, and meet-the-maker sessions with master distillers.
Experience authentic Scottish culture with traditional music sessions, ceilidh dancing, and performances by local and visiting musicians.
Discover perfect partnerships between Islay whiskies and local cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional Scottish dishes.
Guided tours exploring Islay's natural beauty, history, and the landscapes that influence each distillery's unique character.
Whisky Deals & Distillery Specials
Community Opening Event
Lagavulin Day
Bruichladdich Day
Caol Ila Day
Laphroaig & Port Ellen Day
Bowmore & Ardnahoe Day
Kilchoman Day
Bunnahabhain & Jura Day
Ardbeg Day
Laggan Bay Debut (Grand Finale)
• Accommodation books up months in advance
• Ferry tickets should be reserved early
• Some distillery events require advance booking
• Festival passes available from February
• CalMac ferries from Kennacraig (2 hours)
• Loganair flights from Glasgow (45 minutes)
• Car rental available on the island
• Festival shuttle buses between distilleries
• Friendly, community atmosphere
• Exclusive whisky releases and tastings
• Live traditional Scottish music
• Local food and craft vendors
• Pack waterproofs - it's Scotland!
• Designated driver services available
• Bring cash - some vendors don't take cards
• Download offline maps before arriving
Whisky Deals & Distillery Specials
The 2026 festival has wrapped — join thousands of whisky lovers from 28 May to 6 June 2027 for ten more days celebrating Scotland's greatest whisky island and its incredible community.
Visit the official Fèis Ìle website (feisile.co.uk) for 2027 tickets, accommodation, and event details.