09/20/2021
Each fall, Americans of Scottish descent gather at Idlewild Park to celebrate Celtic culture with the Ligonier Highland Games. This year, despite covid trying to interfere, the somewhat downsized event was held on Saturday, September 18. Athletes competed in several traditional Scottish games. Among others, these included tossing the caber, stone putting and throwing the Scottish hammer. There was also a “ladies haggis toss” for the women. Musically, there were competitions in piping, fiddling, drumming and the harp. Dancers vied for awards in the Highland and Scottish country dance categories.
A parade of the clans on the main field was led by military reenactors and two bagpipe bands. Afterward, the bands themselves performed several pieces. Departed clan members were remembered with “Flowers of the Forest.”
Information and sales tents lined the field. Genealogy and history stations enabled those interested to learn more about Scottish culture. Vendors sold Celtic wares including kilts, sporrans, claymores, tartan material, jewelry, pottery, and foods. Kathy Wells from Washington, PA showed the Pittsburgh tartan which she designed and registered in Scotland. Susan Borowski of the Scottish Room Committee adorned her booth with a beautiful antique violin to be auctioned.
Due to covid fears, the dog show, a perennial favorite, was cancelled. The clan tents, however, were open. There one could gather information about one’s own clan as well as many others. The event concluded with the presentation of awards.
