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Experience the vibrant culture of Scotland right in the heart of Arkansas at ScotsFest 2024, Independence County’s largest annual festival. During the weekend of Oct. 18-20, the Lyon College campus will come alive with the rich sounds of bagpipes, the thrill of Highland athletics and the warmth of homecoming celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of Scottish heritage or just looking for a weekend filled with unique entertainment and camaraderie, this festival offers something for everyone.

Rooted in Lyon College’s Presbyterian heritage, ScotsFest is a celebration of the Scottish traditions that have been integral to the college’s identity since its founding in 1872. The college was established by Presbyterian ministers, whose Scottish ancestry inspired a deep connection to Scotland’s culture and values. This heritage is proudly honored each year through the Arkansas Scottish Festival, which has grown into one of the most significant celebrations of Scottish culture in the Southern United States. 

Dr. David Hutchison, vice president for advancement at Lyon College, said, “Lyon College is honored to be a part of the rich tapestry of Arkansas’ cultural heritage, and the Arkansas Scottish Festival stands as a testament to our commitment to preserving and sharing these traditions. Through music, dance and the vibrant display of Scottish culture, the Arkansas Scottish Festival demonstrates the power of community and the enduring partnership between Lyon College and our surrounding region.” 

The festival, which began in 1979 as a modest event on the intramural field, has evolved into one of Arkansas’s preeminent cultural celebrations. This year’s festivities are expected to attract over 6,000 attendees and generate significant economic impact for Independence County. Cindy Barber, executive director of alumni relations, highlighted the festival’s appeal. “ScotsFest is the perfect weekend to enjoy reconnecting with fellow alumni, faculty and staff, family and friends. Enjoy fun, delicious food, dancing, and yes, bagpipes! We can’t wait to see you.” 

The weekend’s events kick off on Friday with open classes, a Founders’ Day choir reunion, convocation, a rocket-building workshop, and an alumni awards celebration and alumni social. Saturday will feature traditional Scottish activities including Highland heavy athletics, a dog show, Scottish dancing, a British car show, sheepdog demonstrations and pipe band exhibitions, alongside homecoming events such as student organization reunions, tailgating and a pep rally. 

Entertainment throughout the festival will include the internationally known Celtic rock band Barleyjuice. Formed in 1998 by pipers Kyf Brewer and Keith Swanson, the band has released seven albums of original and traditional Celtic songs, many of which have seen usage in movies and popular TV shows. Fans of Celtic radio and various music formats like Spotify, Apple Music and Pandora will recognize such popular songs as “Weekend Irish,” “Get Your Irish On,” “Celtic Girl” and “Nancy Whiskey.” Barleyjuice presently consists of Brewer (vocals, guitar, accordion, harmonica and bagpipes), Keith Swanson (vocals, bouzouk and bagpipes), Tucker Hill (bass and vocals), Chris Shepherd (guitar, mandolin and vocals), Johnny Benson (fiddle and vocals) and Jim Seamus Burkhardt (drums). 

Celtic songstress Misty Posey, entertainer and bagpipe educator Patrick Regan, and the award-winning Central High School Kilties of Springfield, Missouri, also will perform at ScotsFest. 

Jimmy Bell, director of the Scottish Heritage program, said, “This year we will have several pipe bands from around the region and great opening ceremonies with all the favorites: Amazing Grace, Scotland the Brave and others. It’s an experience that brings Scottish culture alive right here in Batesville.” 

No Scottish festival would be complete without authentic Scottish cuisine, and ScotsFest 2024 is no exception. Attendees can indulge in a delectable array of traditional foods, including savory meat pies, flaky Scottish pastries, and other mouthwatering goodies that pay homage to the rich culinary traditions of Scotland. 

The festival culminates on Sunday with a Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service and the annual Club 50 luncheon, ensuring a weekend rich in both cultural immersion and college spirit. 

Pam Palermo, senior director of conferences and events and festival director, encouraged attendance. “General admission to the festival is free, and we welcome everyone to join in celebrating our Scottish roots and Lyon’s strong community connections,” Palermo said. 

Some alumni and festival activities, including the Friday evening Alumni Awards Banquet and Saturday evening cèilidh feast and entertainment zone, are ticketed special events. 

For a detailed schedule and more information, visit arscottishfest.com.