In Louisiana, we're known to love our festivals; but we especially love them when they come with bagpipe skirls, cattle herding, and maypole dancing, as is the case at Minden's Scottish Tartan Festival. Organized by the Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands, the annual heritage festival returns to Scotland Farms on April 23.
The day's festivities feature living history exhibits, clan tents, broadsword reenactments, and a whole lot more. See a traditional Scottish trade in action with blacksmithing demonstrations from the Red River Smiths, or sit in on a Gaelic language mini-seminar. Enjoy the antics of border collies herding Highland Scottish Cattle, or be a spectator at one (or both) of the fest's two dog shows. Amuse the youngsters with the traditional Maypole Dance, Highland games, hayrides, and face painting.
The core of entertainment for the festival since its inception, Smithfield Fair will return to the stage in 2022. Based in Baton Rouge, the band blends original, Celtic-based melodies with elements of bluegrass, Appalachian, and folk music. Enjoy performances from a lineup of fellow Celtic musicians, including Red River Pipes and Drums, Emerald Accent, Cleghorn, and Highland Reign.
So, what exactly is a Tartan? A woven plaid cloth typically associated with a particular Scottish Clan. Historically banned by the English government, Tartan Day (April 6th) commemorates the recognition of Scottish Independence. You'll have the opportunity to look up your own Tartan at the Scottish Society tent, which acts as a genealogy resource for those curious about their own family name and its potential Celtic origins. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-12. Doors open at 10 am. visitwebster.net.
Sponsored by the Webster Parish Convention & Visitors Commission
