FESTIVAL HISTORY
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to go back in time? To when the glens of Scotland were ruled by the keen edge of a Clan Chief’s broadsword and tartan-clad warriors were led into battle with the stirring haunts of the highland war-pipes? Have you ever wondered - really wondered just what it would be like to have your senses aroused by the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of medieval Scotland?
Well, look no further! In just 6 short years, the Gathering of the Scots has firmly established the Village of Perth-Andover as the “Celtic Capital” of Western New Brunswick. Recognized as one of the fastest growing cultural events in Maritime Canada, the Gathering of the Scots Festival literally transforms this beautiful community in the upper Saint John River Valley into “A little Piece of Scotland” for 3 amazing days of Celtic celebration!
The Gathering of the Scots Festival is an annual celebration honoring the Scottish cultural community of Western New Brunswick. The picturesque Upper Saint John River Valley is steeped in the traditions of a rich Scottish past with many of its residents today being direct descendants of those brave Scottish settlers who braved the woods of this Province many years ago in search of new beginnings for themselves and their families.
Each year, visitors become totally immersed within the festival’s strong mandate of “education through celebration”. The weekend is jam-packed with performances by dozens of Celtic musicians, Scottish pipe bands and highland dancers. Athletics are always front and center with rugby matches, Scottish back-hold wrestling and the ever popular Scottish heavy events. Celtic retail vendors ply their wares and Genealogical kiosks abound at the festival site (Baird’s Memorial Campground) on Saturday. Tantalizing choices of food and refreshments sooth the pallet like York’s famous “corn fritters” and the Gathering of the Scot’s own “haggis pups”!
But the real secret with the Gathering is how you can transform your visit from “spectator to participant”. Events such as the kilted golf tournament, fly casting competition, March of the Clans to name a few, offer the unique opportunity to become directly involved in the culture. Informative workshops open to the public on such topics as beer and whisky tasting, highland dance, an introduction to the bagpipes, Gaelic language, and traditional Scottish athletics are very popular as well.
Festival organizers are excited about the wide range of activities planned for 2008. Dust off those kilts, pin on the plaid and come join us this May in Perth-Andover for 3 days of “Everything Scottish”!