By Paige Gurgainers
Although the weather was not the best this past Saturday, April 20, the 22nd Annual Scottish Tartan Festival committee made the best out of the off and on torrential downpours. Some attendees may have traded their best kilt for a poncho, but that did not deter them from showing up to celebrate.
“Despite the rain dousing our outdoor stage, causing us to shut it down, the festival actually thrived indoors. We were able to transition the focus to our indoor attractions, as well as work with the schedule to move the remaining outdoor performers to the stage inside the Civic Center,” said Sheila Hoh, Past President of the Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands.
According to Hoh, although adjustments had to be made due to the outdoor stage being shut down, it went off without much of a hitch.
She said, “I credit the generous nature of our indoor acts to give up portions of their performance time and the patience of our attendees for turning what could have been a washout into a real Scottish Ceilidh (that’s Gaelic for party).”
Entertainers included the Rogues, Gems Dance Company, Miriam Bennett, Dead Reckoning String Band, and Thistle Dancers with Ally the Piper giving a phenomenal performance to close the evening. Attendees were also able to visit clan tents that were also moved inside to learn more about their unique tartans and history, enjoy exhibits such as birds of prey, blacksmith and spinning demonstrations, a traditional Scottish wedding and much more. The Highland Games, dog show and haggis eating contest continued in Miller Quarters Park despite the weather.
“The teamwork and dedication of the Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands was remarkable during Saturday’s festival. We are very honored to sponsor an event with such dedication to the visitors’ experience,” said Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission Director Serena Gray. “Despite the weather, and with the help of the City of Minden, we were able to continue carrying out a successful event inside the Civic Center. The food, live entertainment and demonstrations help showcase why the Scottish Tartan Festival is one of the best cultural festivals in north Louisiana. We look forward to supporting this event for years to come!”
