Whether you 're mad for plaid, admire the soulful sounds of bagpipes or you 've always wanted to sample some haggis, the 30th Annual Texas Scottish Festival and Highland Games has something to offer everyone.
The weekend event, which will be held May 13-15 at the University of Texas at Arlington 's Maverick Stadium, typically draws more than 25,000 visitors from across Texas, the United States and even overseas, said Executive Director Ray McDonald.
" The event has grown tremendously. It has always been about Scottish culture and traditions and athletics." McDonald said. " We keep it true."
The festival features the finest in Scottish music, food and athletics. Visitors will be able to purchase Scottish wares and crafts, attend a genealogy seminar, listen to traditional folk music and Celtic rock and watch athletes compete and show off their brute strength during the Highland Games.
There 's also plenty to do for the " wee bairns" in your family. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, the Children 's Tent offers Celtic designs to color, beading and a " haggis" toss. Other activities include a " caber" toss and Scottish tales. At 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, children ages 2 to 12 can enjoy the Children 's Games, which includes a sack race, dash, tug-of-war and a three-legged race. The cost is $1 per child and parents must complete a permission slip/waiver for participants.
Visitors don 't have to have any ties to Scotland to enjoy the food and festivities, McDonald said.
" It 's not for Scottish people. It 's what Scottish people do to show their culture to the general population," McDonald said.
The Texas Scottish Festival and Highland Games also features about a dozen food vendors, who will offer everything from meat pies and Scotch eggs to traditional festival fare such as corn dogs.
" There 's lots of delicious foods. We have a good variety," McDonald said.
Tickets can be purchased at the gate. Adult tickets are $12 each on Friday and Sunday and $18 each on Saturday. Tickets for children ages 6 to 12 are $5 each and teens ages 13 to 17 are $8 each on any day.
Click here for more ticket information and a schedule of events.
Visitors may have to pay for parking, depending on where they choose to park.
Texas Scottish Festival, UT Arlington
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