Black Isle festival plans to ‘go out with a bang’ after Woodzstock organisers confirm event will be the last
A much-loved Highland music festival hopes to “go out with a bang” later this month, as organisers of Woodzstock announce that this year’s event will be its last.
Held annually at Wildwoodz near Fortrose, the one-day festival will be held for the final time on Saturday, June 14.
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Organisers confirmed the news that it will be their final year in a heartfelt statement on social media.
“After nine amazing years, we can now confirm that this year’s Woodzstock will be the last,” it read. “It’s been an incredible journey, but it’s time for us to take a well-earned rest. We're all a little tired — but very, very grateful.
“Before we hang up our boots, we’ve got one more unforgettable day to enjoy. Join us on Saturday June 14 for our final fling. Let’s go out with a bang.”
The 2025 line-up features acts such as Utah Saints, Bombskare, Oasus, Calum Jones, Moteh Parrott, Bad Actress, John B’s Daughter, The Chosen Lonely, Scratch 'N' Brass, and several other returning favourites.
As in previous years, the event will include two stages, live workshops and food and drink stalls, with the days’ entertainment advertised as being suitable for all ages.
Several supporters of the festival responded to the news with sadness.
Photographer Alan Cruickshank, who has captured the event since its earliest days, said: “I was there to photograph the very first and looking forward with some sadness to photographing the last one too.”
Festival regular Niki Mackintosh shared her family’s affection for the event.
“We only started going the last couple of years and have absolutely loved it,” she said. “Our six-year-old is already a bit of a festival veteran and Woodzstock might just be her favourite.
“There are precious few who can create a genuine family vibe. I think you can only put on a festival of this calibre if you've got a true love of live music.
“It must be exhausting and bring huge risks. At least it will go out with a bang.”
Musicians also paid tribute to the organisers.
Inverness band, The Collective, who have played at the event in the past, described it as “one of the best and most enjoyable gigs we’ve ever played.”
Highland musician Liza Mulholland added: “Thank you so much for bringing us a great festival all these years. What a pleasure to play at it – and we’re honoured to be playing this last time.”
Tickets for the final event are available at woodzstock.co.uk.
In a post on Facebook, the Woodzstock team paid tribute to those who have made the festival possible over the years.
“Thank you to every single one of you – our volunteers, artists, performers, partners, and friends – who’ve made the last nine years of Woodzstock so special. We truly couldn’t have done it without you.”
