Already Blas is a notable fixture on Scotland's cultural calendar despite just completing its fourth year and in 2008 the festival staged a total of 86 events based on music, education and Highland food.

"Blas is Gaelic for 'taste' or 'savour' and this year's results are very tasty," festival director Donna MacRae said.

"We delivered 45 music and 41 educational events with locals and visitors right across the Highlands being offered a number of opportunities to enjoy Highland culture.

"Over 5000 people attended the music shows alone, in venues ranging from Eden Court Theatre to small village halls. We exceeded our targets for ticket sales and recorded a significant increase on the previous record year, with 16 of the shows actually selling out. We said we wanted to demonstrate just how different and authentic Highland culture is; with these results we can see there are thousands of people who want to experience what we have to offer."

The Chieftains who were the star attraction at last year's festival.

Blas not only proved popular with people from all over Scotland and the UK, but also attracted visitors from the Netherlands, Switzerland, Denmark, Germany, Eire, Australia and France, as well as performers from Scotland, Ireland and Canada.

"We're now very excited about 2009 and looking forward to playing our part again in Scotland's cultural events," MacRae added.

The Blas festival was devised by Highland Council in partnership with Fèisean nan Gàidheal and the Promoters Arts Network.

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