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Memorial Park became the site of bagpipe music, Celtic dancing and Highland athletics this past weekend as the Payson Scottish Festival celebrated its 25th year. Events began on Thursday evening with a special Ceilidh held at the Peteetneet Amphitheater.
Friday evening another Ceilidh was held to kick off the games and featured a variety of performers. The festival officially began on Saturday morning with a parade of bagpipe bands that would be competing throughout the day as well as clan members in attendance.
Mayor Burtis Bills also participated in the parade and events throughout the day.
"This festival is an honor and tribute to the many early Scottish settlers that helped establish Payson," Bills said. "They were a proud hard working people that helped make a solid foundation for our community. Each and every one of us should take pride in our own heritage by knowing who we are, and where we came from. Whether you have Scottish heritage or not you can have an enjoyable time getting to know some of our Scottish food, history, heritage and traditions."
Following the parade, the opening ceremonies began on the athletic field. The massed bands performed and the chieftain, Kevin McDonald officially opened the games. Following the opening ceremony those in attendance could visit a variety of booths located throughout the park selling traditional Scottish food, Scottish wares and genealogy items.
The bandstand in the center of the park featured a variety of entertainment throughout the day. Some of the entertainment included the Power Academy of Irish Dance, Schiehallion, Celtic Country Dancers, Rinceoiri Don Spraol, The Cluffs and Anne-Marie Hildebrant with Citrine.
Competitions were held throughout the park and included athletic competitions like the Caber toss and the Sheaf toss; music competitions like the bagpipe bands, bagpipe solos and drum solos; and dance competitions where dancers performed.
The Highland Fling, The Sword Dance and the Seann Triubhas.
Events were also held which catered to the children in attendance. Children could participate in face painting, crown decorating, designing a coat of arms and sword fighting.
The festival finished off with closing ceremonies with the massed bands again joining together on the athletic field.
Winners of the various competitions were announced. |
