Press Release #1 – For Immediate Release
Gathering of the Scots Inc.
Perth-Andover, NB
www.gatheringofthescots.com
The new year is often a time for gathering – a time of reflection and planning for the year ahead. As we move into 2024, festival organizers are well into planning for the 21st Annual Gathering of the Scots Festival in Perth-Andover.
IN THE BEGINNING
“It seems only yesterday when we first gathered together in a small field in Lower Perth,” Festival Chairman
Rod MacIntosh reflects. “One pipe band, a couple of workshops, and a few athletes were all we had! But after a wonderful day, we thought we saw potential and decided to try again.” That’s exactly what they did – again and again . . . and again! Over the next 20 years the Gathering of the Scots, ever so gradually, expanded their activities and timelines to establish themselves as one of Atlantic Canada’s most recognized Cultural Celebrations that now includes dozens of interactive activities over 4-days throughout the community!
20 years is certainly something to be proud of, but it did not come without its challenges. In 2012 Perth-Andover was devastated by flooding a few weeks prior to the Gathering resulting in millions of dollars in damage to their small community. “Despite adversity, we came together that year,” MacInosh remembers.
“As we always do here in times of need. It was a wonderful and proud experience!” Then after closure in 2020-2021 due to Covid-19, the future of the Gathering was threatened. After two long years away, could they reboot the Gathering? What would be the public response? Again, this little community rebounded and firmly showed they were ready to move on with a well attended and emotional reunion in 2022!
GATHERING “FIRSTS”
Over the years, the Gathering of the Scots have constantly strived to expand their festival venues with new
and innovative attractions. In 2010, they were the first to include Female Scottish Heavyweight divisions of competition ever in Atlantic Canada, over the years they have hosted 2 National Finals (Canadian Masters and Canadian Female Heavyweight Championships). Furthermore, the first Falconry (birds of prey) flight demonstrations in New Brunswick were held here in 2017, and they even make claim to the Largest Scottish Clan March in the World. Most recently, in 2023, the Knights of Valour Medieval Jousting troupe awed huge crowds – another fist in New Brunswick!
NEW DATES MOVING FORWARD! (JUNE 6th-9th,2024)
Festival Organizers have decided that a change is needed! Traditionally celebrated at the end of May, a decision has been made to move festival activities “by 1-week” into the warmth of summer. “Unreliable weather has often been a concern with the Gathering falling so early in the festival season,” MacIntosh explains. “In 2024, all activities will be moved 1-week further into June”.
FULL CONTACT MEDIEVAL JOUSTING RETURNS IN 2024
No one can deny that the Medieval Jousting Competitions experienced at the Gathering of the Scots last year were hugely popular with hundreds in attendance! As a result, organizers have decided to rebook the prestigious Knights of Valour Jousting Troupe for a return performance in 2024. “This could be your last chance to experience something few people ever see,” MacIntosh stresses. To preview what’s in store, check out the Knights of Valour website at extremejousting.com.
WHISKY-TASTINGS AT THE BREWERY
An innovative decision has been made to return a component of Whisky-Tasting to the Gathering in 2024. In partnership with Tobique River Trading Company, plans are coming together to host two separate evening Tasting Workshops in conjunction with the Gathering.
LOTS & LOTS OF MUSIC
Visitors will again experience the massive power of the massed pipe bands as they march down Main Street Saturday morning. Plans are also underway to host the Gathering’s first Pipe Band Competition in 2024.
MILITARY TUG-O-WAR CHALLENGE
Perth-Andover will experience a military invasion in 2024 as several teams representing divisions of our Canadian Military will “take the strain” in competition at the tug-o-war venue. A lot of pride and bragging rights will be on the line!
KILTED GOLF IN THE HIGHLANDS
A long-standing tradition at the Gathering of the Scots is the Kilted Golf Tournament hosted by the prestigious Aroostook Valley Country Club. This provides fun for all ages and skill levels. Tickets include a fun round of golf with cart rental with a snack to follow.
JOIN US AT THE CEILIDH IN 2024
No Scottish festival is complete without a Ceilidh – the musical heartbeat of every Highland festival! 2024 promises to be exceptionally memorable! Join in for delightful afternoon performances by many wonderful musicians and stick around for a special evening with performances by the Celtic band Còrsa and the Montgomery Street Band!
KIRKING OF THE TARTANS
Every year, as the dust settles and farewells are offered, many folks come together quietly for one last tribute to the strong Scottish heritage that this community honors – the Kirking of the Tartans at Larlee Creek on Sunday evening. What is a Kirking you ask? In brief, it is a ceremony that pays homage to the Scots that left their homeland many years ago in search of better lives. This beautiful ceremony is deeply loured in Scottish history and a wonderful way to complete each year’s festival.
Follow us on our social media platforms and check our website for the latest updates and forthcoming schedule as the weekend of June 6-9, 2024 draws near.
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