Jura is a small island, inhabited by a little over 200 people and therefore not an island with as many large festivals as its neighbouring islands of Islay and Mull. But the festivals and events that they do have matter very much and are worth looking out for. Below is a listing of the confirmed events for 2014.
For the very fit athletes there is the annual Isle of Jura Fell Race. With a length of 28 km crossing 7 mountain summits (including the Paps of Jura) they are in for another very tough race. Mind you, there is a total of 2370 m. of climbing and the fastest time is a little over three hours. For this years event there are 240 people on the list. The Jura Fell Race will take place on Saturday 24th of May 2014 and the start is at 10.30am in Craighouse. More info is available at www.jurafellrace.org.uk
Second event on the calendar is the Jura distillery Whisky Festival, coinciding of course with the Islay Festival. This years Jura Open Day, or should I say #Tastival, will be held on the 28th and 29th of May and it promises to be great: “Join our Taste Revolution at the Jura Distillery on the 28th and 29th May. This year, we will be taking you on a sensory adventure in flavour that will empower you to explore and create your own tasting notes. Our expert ambassadors will be on hand to guide you through a variety of multi-sensory experiences in whisky, food and art to open your mind and palate to infinite possibilities. In addition to our exciting ticketed sessions, the dramming bar will be open in The Cooperage and we will be running free distillery tours throughout the day.” For the full programme visit this link
Now in its 21st year, The Isle of Jura Musical Festival is a well-established favourite for lovers of the traditional music scene. To celebrate this 20th landmark, the weekend is going to be even bigger and better than ever. From the locals Friday night ceilidh right through to a brand new Sunday night concert in the distillery co-operage, headlined by Wolfstone, enjoy a weekend packed with fantastic performances, stimulating workshops, spontaneous sessions and great craic. This years Musical Festival will be held on 26th – 28th September. More info and online ticket booking is available via www.juramusicfestival.com
Also, keep an eye out on the Sound of Jura website for updates on concerts. The first concert will take place on the 7th of June 2014 in Jura Hall when The Corn Potato String Band will entertain the locals and visitors! And even more info is available in the Jura Jottings. A 12 month online subscription of the monthly newsletter is £18. More info on www.jura-jottings.co.uk/subscribe.htm