Secondary events and attractions

At modern-day Highland Games events, a wide variety of other activities and events are generally available. The various clan societies make the Highland games one of the main foci of their seasonal activities. Visitors can find out information about their Scottish roots and can become active in their own clan society if they wish. In addition to the clan societies, Games visitors can usually find a number of other Scottish groups represented. A variety of informational booths, exhibits, and demonstrations can also be seen, especially at the larger games. This might include information on genealogy, the Gaelic language, exhibits on sheep shearing and weaving, and a variety of lectures on topics related to Scottish traditions.

Reconstructionist groups such as the Historic Highlanders and the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) can be found at some of the Games. These groups research Scottish history and attempt to recreate a picture of the life and habits, including garb, skills, culture and various items of times past, in the Scottish Highlands.

Merchant vendors are almost always a part of the games as well. The larger games will feature a wide assortment of such vendors offering such things as music recordings (bagpipe bands and groups, Scottish and Celtic entertainment groups), music equipment and supplies (bagpipes, drums, music scores, band equipment), books on a wide assortment of things Scottish, Celtic and Irish arts and crafts, and imports from Scotland and the United Kingdom, including an assortment of gift and souvenir items. And of course, there will be kiltmakers and vendors of tartan goods (kilts, blankets, ties, scarves) and kilt accessories.

Animals are also a part of many Highland games events, with Scottish terriers being perhaps the most familiar. Shelties and border collies can also be seen where many of the Games feature herding competitions involving sheep or geese. Highland cattle are also fairly common at the Games. This is a long haired, shaggy breed with sweeping horns especially adapted to harsh climates and sparse grazing conditions.

Finally, event visitors can sample a variety of specialty Scottish foods such as shortbread, bangers, meat pies, Irn-bru, scones, and haggis.

Date: 2015-01-29; view: 873