About the Festival

Water Sound Bluegrass & Roots Festival is a three-day event running from Friday 22 August 2025 to Sunday 24 August 2025. It is named after the stretch of water between Burray and South Ronaldsay (Water Sound) and will bring together bluegrass and related styles such as country, Americana, gospel and western swing.  Main performances will be held in a large Marquee with bar sited in Burray village close to the Burray Hall. In addition to the main marquee, there will be a range of stalls, food and camping available for tents and motorhomes. 

The island of Burray has a rich musical heritage and a community that enthusiastically supports activities and musical events. The festival itself is proud to be strongly rooted in the local Burray community and wider Orkney musical community and is being delivered collaboratively by the Burray Community Association and Orkney Music and Culture. The island itself has amenities such as a hotel and bar, holiday accommodation, café, play park, sports pitches and the UK’s most northerly crazy golf course! We are also just a few miles from St. Margaret’s Hope which has a ferry connection to the Scottish mainland as well as many amenities such as shops, bars, restaurants and accommodation. 

We can’t wait to bring everyone together for a brilliant weekend of incredible music and fun on our beautiful island. You can expect a warm welcome!