Hedge Fest is a non-profit alternative music festival established in 2024 in memory of punk rocker, musician, artist and tattooist Gary “Hedge” MacDonald, who sadly passed away from lymphoma cancer.

Founded in Elgin, Moray, the festival was created to celebrate alternative music, community spirit and the people who make grassroots music scenes special, while also raising awareness and funds for important causes.

Our inaugural event in 2024 raised over £1000 for Lymphoma Action UK and brought together bands, supporters, artists and music lovers from across Scotland for a day of live music and community.

Following the success of the first event, plans for Hedge Fest’s future were briefly paused after the sudden loss of organiser Fiona’s mother. After time, reflection and the continued support of the local music community, Hedge Fest returned stronger than ever and has continued to grow into an annual alternative music festival built on passion, community and independent music culture.

Our third event is scheduled to take place on September 26th 2026 in Elgin and will feature a diverse lineup of alternative bands alongside stalls, independent traders, refreshments, community spaces and a shared love of grassroots live music, while continuing to support charitable causes close to the festival’s heart

No one should have to die alone, no one should have to fight cancer alone and no one should not be aware they have it when there is help, treatments, support and chance of survival.