About the Festival

A three-day celebration of bluegrass, Americana and roots music in Burray, Orkney — with live acts, community spirit, camping, great food and a warm welcome.

Water Sound Bluegrass & Roots Festival is a three-day event running from Friday 3rd July to Sunday 5th July 2026. 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, old-time, Americana, blues 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 marquee and Community Hall for workshops and jamming, a range of 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 delivered by the Burray Community Association. The island itself has amenities such as a hotel and bar, holiday accommodation, cafés, 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!