Choirs competing at the Royal National Mod in Oban have revealed the high costs they face, with one group spending £12,000 on a three-night stay. This amount does not include expenses for food, travel, and drinks, which can add an extra £70 to £100 per person per day. The financial burden of attending the Mod can be challenging for choirs, especially those with more than 40 members.
Youth groups like the one from Harris have resorted to fundraising and the help of “dedicated grannies” to cover the costs of their trip to Oban, which can amount to £10,000. For some choirs, like the one from Sir E Scott School, raising around £10,000 annually to bring their choir to the Mod is a significant community effort. The goal is to keep costs low for everyone, especially for families who may struggle to afford the nominal fees.
While many choirs from the central belt opt to visit Oban for the day to avoid expensive hotel prices, some, like Riona Whyte and her daughter Megan, manage to secure lower rates by booking early. However, they criticize the dynamic pricing strategy that some establishments use to capitalize on the Mod event, making it unaffordable for many attendees.
Aside from accommodation costs, even the price of drinks at Mod celebrations can be steep, with some venues charging up to £7 for a pint and £15 for a cocktail. However, there are more affordable options available at the Mod marquee, where prices are relatively lower. Karen MacCorquodale offers lager at £4 a can, and Louise MacPhail sells gin and tonic for £5, providing attendees with more budget-friendly choices.
Despite the financial challenges, the Royal National Mod in Oban kicked off to a rainy yet fantastic start, featuring performances from various choirs and musicians. The event has attracted a diverse range of talents, including the Makaton Gaelic Choir and singer Kerrie Kennedy, who sang Oceans during the Celtic Praise event. To stay updated on the latest happenings at the Mod, interested individuals can refer to the all-inclusive guide available on the Royal National Mod website.
In addition to the competitions and performances, attendees have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of drinks and cocktails at different prices across Oban. Whether it’s a craft beer for £4 or a gin cocktail for £7.50, there is something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating Gaelic culture and music at the Mod. For those looking to explore more of the local area, signing up for the Oban and Hebrides newsletter can provide a weekly dose of news and updates straight to their inbox.