The downtown here is going tartan in celebration of the third annual Tartan Day on April 10.
In partnership with the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, downtown merchants and six pubs and restaurants will help everyone celebrate Fergus’ Celtic roots.
The event runs from noon to 5pm, with entertainment inside and out. Festivities will kick off with a Fergus Tartan Day first, the Kilted Kilometre run, hosted by Grand River Running. Interested runners may register in advance at Grand River Running in the Fergus Marketplace, with admission by donation to the Centre Wellington Food Bank.
Fraberts Fresh Food will provide refreshments for runners. First place winners for men, women, and youth under 16 will receive a free weekend pass to the 2011 Fergus Scottish Festival. All runners must wear a kilt.
New this year is a free historical walking tour of downtown Fergus. Costumed characters will help participants discover the hidden treasures of Fergus’ Scottish past. The tour begins in front of the Fergus library at 2pm.
The “kilted krawl” has the Fergus Pipe Band, Grand Celtic Pipe Band, and Men with Small Pipes parade to all six venues en route.
Celtic guitarist Bob McLean will perform at the Breadalbane Inn; Tommy Leadbeater and friends will perform at the Brewhouse; local favourites Janice Howie and Nick Gush will serenade at Van Gali’s; David Leask, well-known Scottish singer and songwriter, along with James McKie will entertain at O’Briens; Pagan’s Folly, a four-piece Celtic ensemble, will salute the highlands at D’s Sports Bar and Grill; and, CeltRock Folk legends The Rogues will offer a performance at the Goofie Newfie. Also watch for Liam McGlashon, the Fiddle Kid, who will make guest appearances at each venue.
“It brings together the festival and downtown core, while connecting us to international Tartan Day celebrations. So get out of winter and tilt yer kilt,” says Tartan Day chairman Deb Dalziel.
A weeklong celebration in Scotland, Tartan Day is also recognized in North America. Scots and Scottish descendants wear their clan’s tartan and to celebrate their heritage. For more information on Tartan Day and the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, visit www.fergusscottishfestival.com.
