Whether you're of Scottish heritage or you simply admire those
who are, Gatlinburg's Scottish Festival and Games is your kind
of event. Held annually each May, this is one of the Smoky's
most unique festivals.
Music
Music is such a large part of Scottish life that it has to take
center stage at this outing. There'll be bagpipes galore along
with other types of music during this weekend event. Day one
kicks off with a parade featuring pipes and drums. Saturday and
Sunday continue in the same tradition with an outdoor Ceilidh (a
Scottish music festival) that lasts long into the night. You
can also witness pipe and drum competitions which are as
interesting to watch as they are entertaining to listen to.
If your musical tastes include balladeers on guitar, Celtic rock
or even Celtic punk, you're in luck. They'll all be featured
during the festival.
Athletics
Amateur and pro events are held during the Scottish Festival and
Games for all who choose to participate. Tossing, whirling and
throwing require great strength and accuracy. These athletes
are bound to impress every onlooker with their skill and might.
As with the original Scottish Highland Games, stone putting
events are one of the main draws. At the Gatlinburg Scottish
Festival and Games, athletes can choose from competitions for
braemar stone, open stone, heavy WFD, light WFD, heavy hammer,
caber, sheaf and WFH. Both men's and women's events are held in
pro and amateur categories.
Dancing
Highland dancing - one of the most popular forms of dance in
Scotland - will be on display throughout the event. With
numerous children's competitions, you'll find ample time to
watch the amazing footwork of these talented performers. With
novice and intermediate dancers in virtually every age range,
you'll sit in wonder as you're entertained and impressed.
Border Collies
Natively from Scotland, border collies are some of the most
intelligent K-9s in the world. These high-energy herding dogs
live for working in the fields, keeping watch over the flocks.
Responding to both voice and whistle commands with astonishing
accuracy, border collies are as beautiful as they are agile.
Bob Coburn of Windy Knoll Farms in Laurens, South Carolina will
conduct sheep dog trials twice daily. You'll marvel at the
mind-blowing display these dogs present. There's little wonder
this event always draws big crowds of spectators.
From worship services Sunday morning to a mile-long run to
kiddie events, there's plenty for the entire family to do and
see. Gatlinburg's Scottish Festival and Games has captured the
hearts of Smoky Mountain residents for over 25 years. Come see
what all the talk is about!
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