The Lyon College campus will burst with the vibrant sounds of bagpipes, the excitement of Highland games, and the heartwarming spirit of homecoming celebrations when ScotsFest, Independence County’s premier annual festival, returns from October 18-20.
Celebrating its deep Presbyterian roots, ScotsFest 2024 is set to draw over 6,000 visitors to the Batesville campus, immersing them in Scottish culture right here in Arkansas.
Founded in 1872 by Presbyterian ministers of Scottish descent, Lyon College has long honored its Scottish heritage. What began as a modest campus event in 1979 has evolved into a major cultural festival and one of the most significant Scottish celebrations in the southern U.S. ScotsFest also plays a crucial role in boosting the local economy.
Dr. David Hutchison, vice president for advancement at Lyon College, underscores the festival’s role in preserving Scottish traditions.
“Lyon College is proud to contribute to Arkansas’ rich cultural landscape, and ScotsFest exemplifies our dedication to celebrating and preserving these traditions. Through music, dance, and vibrant cultural displays, the festival highlights the strength of community and the enduring connection between Lyon College and our region.”
The festivities will kick off on Friday with a variety of events, including open classes, a Founders’ Day choir reunion, a convocation, a rocket-building workshop, and an alumni awards celebration. Saturday’s activities will showcase Highland heavy athletics, a dog show, Scottish dancing, a British car show, sheepdog demonstrations, and pipe band performances, along with homecoming events like student organization reunions, tailgating, and a pep rally.
The festival will feature performances by the renowned Celtic Rock band Barleyjuice, known for their albums of original and traditional Celtic music. Fans will recognize hits like “Weekend Irish,” “Get Your Irish On,” “Celtic Girl,” and “Nancy Whiskey.”
Additionally, Celtic singer Misty Posey, bagpipe educator Patrick Regan, and the award-winning Central High School Kilties from Springfield, Mo., will entertain the crowd. Pipe bands will be a central highlight of ScotsFest, with popular tunes such as “Amazing Grace” and “Scotland the Brave” marking the opening ceremonies.
No Scottish festival would be complete without authentic Scottish fare, and ScotsFest 2024 delivers with a selection of traditional dishes, including savory meat pies, flaky pastries, and other delicious treats that celebrate Scotland’s culinary heritage.
The festival will wrap up on Sunday with the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service and the annual Club 50 luncheon. While general admission is free, some events require tickets.
Cindy Barber, executive director of alumni relations, emphasizes the festival’s charm.
“ScotsFest is the ideal opportunity to reconnect with alumni, faculty, staff, family, and friends while enjoying fantastic food, lively dancing, and, of course, the iconic bagpipes,” she said.
For a complete schedule and additional information, visit arscottishfest.com.
Images: Lyon College
