Can you remember the first time you heard bagpipes being played? The unmistakable sound of bagpipes is both eerie and enchanting at the same time - fitting for an instrument meant to carry sound through the rolling hills of Scotland! This music is deeply rooted in Scottish tradition, and perhaps this isn’t something you hear a lot in the Natural State. But since 1979, the small town of Batesville, Arkansas, has been celebrating the music, as well as the rich Celtic culture by hosting the most authentic Scottish festival in America. So, grab your kilts this fall, and check out Arkansas' epic Scotsfest, where we celebrate all the wonderful traditions of Scotland!
Mark your calendars for this year's annual Arkansas Scottish Festival, also known as ScotsFest.
This year's festival will be bigger and better than ever.
No doubt one of the best fall festivals in Arkansas, this Batesville staple takes place amidst the changing foliage and is the perfect place to immerse yourself in near cultural traditions.
Kilts aren't required, but do come prepared to have the best time of your life with students, family, friends, and Lyon College alumni, who will be celebrating Homecoming at the same time.
In fact, this is the most authentic Scottish festival in America. Pipers, drummers, dancers, athletes, Scottish clans, and vendors travel from all corners of the country to attend the event, which has earned national recognition.
Naturally, the festival will be held on the beautiful 136-acre Lyon College campus, which boasts a rich Celtic heritage.
In addition to oodles of vendors and a fun bazaar, the festival will be jam-packed with lots of activities including parades, music, Highland Games, races, a sheepdog demo, dance classes, and more - including homecoming activities as well!
Because this festival is part of the Lyon College homecoming, in addition to Scottish shenanigans, there will be banquets, the homecoming football game, parades, a pep rally, tailgating, and everything in between.
Surely, no festival is complete without food vendors, so come hungry and enjoy some traditional Scottish food like meat pies and haggis.
There will also be quintessential American favorites like BBQ, corndogs, funnel cake, and more.
One of the highlights of the festival will be seeing the clans and bands, where you can enjoy hearing traditional music. There will also be reenactments of historical battles, plenty of dancing, and even a British car show.
With all the events happening at this festival, you’ll need to attend on all three days to fully experience the rich Scottish culture!
The 2024 Arkansas ScotsFest will take place October 18-20. Check out the full schedule, plan your visit, and grab your tickets on the Arkansas ScotsFest website. Be sure to keep an eye on the festival's official Facebook page for updates, too!
Have you ever been to this Scottish festival in Arkansas? What was your favorite part?
If you're visiting Batesville just for the festival, you might want to think again! Not only is there a ton to do in this walkable town, but you'll find plenty of trails, overlooks, and parks to enjoy in the area as well.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/walkable-town-day-trip-ar/
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