Batesville, Ark.
ScotsFest, the largest annual festival in Independence County, returns to the Lyon College campus in Batesville the weekend of October 17-19, promising a vibrant celebration of Scottish heritage and college spirit. The event, steeped in Lyon College’s history since its founding in 1872 by Presbyterian ministers of Scottish descent, draws over 6,000 attendees and boosts the local economy with its cultural offerings.
A Legacy of Scottish Culture
Originating in 1979 as a modest event on the college’s intramural field, ScotsFest has grown into one of Arkansas’s premier cultural celebrations. The festival honors the Scottish traditions that have shaped Lyon College, reflecting values of community and heritage. This year’s festivities will feature the sound of bagpipes, the intensity of Highland games, and the energy of homecoming, blending cultural immersion with college pride.
Weekend Schedule and Highlights
The weekend kicks off on Friday with open Lyon College classes, vendor booths, and Scottish clan gatherings, alongside a Scottish Heritage Program director’s reception and a free rocket-building workshop. The day concludes with the annual alumni awards celebration on campus and an all-alumni social at Polk & Paddle in downtown Batesville.
Saturday brings classic ScotsFest traditions, including Highland heavy athletics, living history presentations by MacLachlan’s Jacobite Highlanders and Colonel Munro’s 37th Regiment of Foot, Scottish dancing, sheepdog demonstrations, pipe band performances, a British car show, and a dog show. A new petting zoo adds family-friendly fun. The Robert Lewis Campbell Scottish Clan Village will host over 20 Scottish clans, offering displays and information on family histories and traditions, inviting attendees to explore their Scottish roots.
Homecoming activities on Saturday include reunions for student organizations and athletic teams, tailgating, and a pep rally, culminating in the homecoming football game at 3:30 p.m., where the Lyon College Scots face Centenary College in the new Bad Boy Mowers Stadium.
Entertainment features internationally known Celtic rock band Mudmen, Celtic songstress Misty Posey, bagpipe educator Patrick Regan, dozens of pipe and drum bands, and the award-winning Central High School Kiltie Drum and Bugle Corps from Springfield, Missouri. Saturday’s opening ceremonies at noon will include performances of “Amazing Grace” and “Scotland the Brave,” as noted by Jimmy Bell, director of the Scottish Heritage Program at Lyon College. “ScotsFest is a wonderful celebration that brings the spirit of Scottish culture alive here in Batesville, and it’s always a joy to see folks of all ages come together and enjoy it,” Bell said.
Sunday wraps up with a Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service and the annual Club 50 luncheon, rounding out a weekend of cultural and community engagement.
Food and Economic Impact
Authentic Scottish cuisine, including savory meat pies, flaky pastries, and other traditional favorites, will be available, enhancing the festival’s cultural experience. With an expected attendance of over 6,000, ScotsFest 2025 is set to generate significant economic activity for Batesville and Independence County through vendor sales, tourism, and local business patronage.
Admission and Proceeds
General admission to the festival is free, though some events like the Friday alumni awards banquet, Saturday evening cèilidh feast, and entertainment zone require tickets. Proceeds support the Scottish Heritage Program at Lyon College, funding cultural and educational initiatives and providing scholarships for students. “We welcome everyone to join in celebrating our Scottish roots and Lyon College’s strong community connections,” said Pam Palermo, senior director of conferences and events and festival director.
For a full schedule and additional details, visit arscottishfest.com.
The Batesville Tribune will provide updates as the event approaches, including any schedule changes or community highlights.
