Published: 9/13/2022 7:35:48 PM
Experience the spirit of Scotland at the 47th Annual New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival from Sept. 16 to 18 at Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln. Presented by NHSCOT, a nonprofit corporation dedicated to preserving and promoting Scottish culture, this three-day celebration is one of the largest Scottish cultural events in the Northeast and attracts attendees near and far to savor the flavors, sounds and tastes of Scotland.
Pageantry, music, dance, Try It classes, beer and whisky tastings, and sheep dog trials are all exciting components of the festive weekend in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.
“The NH Highland Games & Festival is a wonderful experience showcasing Scottish culture, but you don’t have to be Scottish to join in the fun! People of all ages love to watch the sheep dogs fly through their paces, observe the pageantry of Massed Bands, or dance to the Celtic beats under the concert tent,” said Terri Wiltse, Executive Director of NHSCOT.
“We welcome visitors and competitors from all around the world, making this truly a global event. We are thrilled to return to our regular format this year.”
From Scotch eggs, meat pies and rumpledethumps, to scones, shortbreads and whisky pudding, the Games are an opportunity to explore the flavors of Scotland.
Take a walk through Clan Village, home to 60+ Scottish clans or stroll vibrant Vendor Village, where tartan apparel, traditional sweets, bagpiping supplies, and various other Celtic items are available for purchase.
On Sunday, Sept.18, NHSCOT will host its First Annual Scotch Ale Competition Tasting Event. This a special ticketed event celebrates eight local breweries: Backyard Brewery, Hobbs Tavern & Brewing Company, Kelsen Brewery, Kettlehead Brewing Company, Northwoods Brewing Company, Throwback Brewery, Twin Barns Brewing Company, and Woodstock Inn Brewery. Ticket holders can enjoy a flight of eight Scotch Ales before casting their vote to select the best Scotch Ale in New Hampshire.
As a prelude to Highland Games weekend, NHSCOT is hosting two exciting workshops, Wednesday, Sept. 14 and Thursday, Sept. 15: a Genealogy Workshop and the opportunity to earn a Diploma in Single Malt Whisky from Edinburgh Whisky Academy.
Genealogy expert Ron Collins will provide amateur genealogists an opportunity to expand their research as they delve more deeply into their Scottish lineage with professional guidance. The Edinburgh Whisky Academy’s Diploma in Single Malt Whisky is a desirable credential for hospitality professionals and a satisfying achievement for serious enthusiasts. Registration for these workshops is required. See nhscot.org.