Johnsmas Foy

A traditional Shetland celebration

• What: A festival to mark mid-summer and to celebrate seafaring traditions
• When: June 15-24
• Where: Centered on Lerwick, Shetland, with activities throughout the islands
• Admission: Concert tickets £12, various free
• Website

Johnsmas Foy on Shetland traditionally celebrated the arrival of the Dutch herring fleet in the islands and the start of the haaf or drawn net fishing season. The 2007 festival celebrates the islands' fishing heritage with a range of outdoor events, music and cultural activities, a yacht race and parade of sail, food stalls, a market, exhibitions, singing and dancing.

Live entertainment includes drummer, pipers, the Papa Stour sword dancers, highland dancers and a belly dancer? There are also demonstrations of spinning, weaving and storytelling. The Scottish Chamber Orchester performs in Lerwick and other events are planned for Skeld and Unst.