North Hop Aviemore, a celebration of Scottish drinks, food and music, took place in February this year but demand for its return have seen the team behind the event announce a second 2017 date.
The return leg of the festival will take place on the 10th-11th November at Macdonald Aviemore Resort and will host some of Scotland’s favourite spirits, beers and ciders as well as some exciting rising stars of the drinks scene.
Featuring a dedicated rum bar from the new Scottish dark rum, Wester Spirit Co, two special brews from local brewery, Spey Valley, and a bar and pop-up shop will also be set up on site by the ever popular Isle of Harris Distillers.
Fizzy wine specialists Poco Prosecco will be there with its Prosecco Van, serving bubbly on tap for those looking for something different from the usual beer and spirits offering.
The organisers say that foodies will also be able to enjoy the day with some of Scotland's vendors such as Salt & Sauce, Chick & Pea, Bowl Food and The Pantry Tuck Truck on hand to feed any hungry attendees.
Hosted by STV’s Nicola McAlley, Scottish music acts We Came From Wolves, Footerin’ Aboot, Sam Cain and Miracle Glass Company will be taking to the live music stage to provide a soundtrack for the festival.
Nicola said: “I can't wait to take on my MC duties once again at North Hop Aviemore; the Highland crowds are so good, we just can't keep away!
“There's so much to enjoy, it's hard to know where to start and festival goers are in for an absolute treat, for both their taste buds and their ears.
"Some of my favourite musicians are playing, including Dr Wook and Miracle Glass Company, which are one of the best live bands in the U.K. in my opinion. They're also releasing their new single the same night so that's yet another reason to come and party at North Hop!”
The organisers have also arranged a dedicated late night bus service for those travelling back from Aviemore to Inverness via Carrbridge and Tomatin, leaving at the end of the night sessions - though these must be booked in advance.
Michelle Russell, North Hop director, said: “North Hop Aviemore was an undeniable success in February and we just couldn’t wait another a year to do it all again so we decided that we would bring it forward!
“The fact we are able to put on two big festivals in the same year is testament to our thriving drinks industry in Scotland and the incredible products our distillers and brewers are coming up with. Our special Festival Brew, a delicious Rhubarb Hefeweizen, will be courtesy of 71 Brewing and after popular demand, our popular Farmhouse Festival Cider from Thistly Cross Cider, will be back for one last time.
“Our second North Hop Aviemore will also have the added benefit of a recovery brunch at The Old Bridge Inn on Sunday 12th for those who decide to make a weekend of it!
“Aviemore is a hub of activity from outdoor sports to food and drinks festivals to music festivals and it is fantastic to see new crowds coming to the area to experience what Scotland has to offer. The last festival saw over 1000 people through the doors which was a huge boost to local accommodation providers and businesses, and that is only set to grow this time around!”
• Tickets are on sale now from northhop.co.uk/festivals/aviemore.
