The Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games will celebrate 72 years of Celtic contributions to 150 years of Canadian culture Aug. 11 to 13.
In honour of this achievement, the festival is offering a line-up of events filled with pipes, plaid and pageantry.
“We are absolutely tickled tartan with the music line-up for this year’s festival,” says Katie Sinclair, 2017 music venue chair.
“It is a wonderful combination of traditional and new age … there truly is something for everyone …
“Whether from over the pond or local, the talent is amazing and will be sure to leave the crowd wanting more!”
Highlights
Returning for another groundbreaking Friday evening concert, direct from Scotland, are The Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
The Highland Pub will feature a rocking rotation of Celtic performers all weekend long, including festival favourite Albannach returning from Scotland with their own brand of “bare-knuckle” pipes and drums.
This year’s Saturday night concert features a Hometown Reunion party with local band Fair Warning.
The downtown Fergus Celtic Traditions concert has moved to Melville United Church and features an evening of talented Celtic music acts.
Friday’s “Tattoo’d in Tradition” emcee is Gillebride MacMillan, a singer, scholar and poet. Like the Bard he portrayed in the hit television series Outlander, Gillebride will wander the festival to entertain clans and guests.
Discovery Channel’s Andrew Younghusband (of Canada’s Worst Driver) will be filming at and competing in this year’s heavy event competitions for the hit series Tougher Than It Looks.
In partnership with Riverfest Elora, the Fergus Fall Fair, Elora Festival and the Township of Centre Wellington, organizers are offering a mobile water unit with access to free municipal water (don’t forget to bring your own water bottle).
A new website with interactive schedules and online ticket sales, and a completely rebranded logo, launch the festival into the digital age with style, officials say.
To view the full schedule visit www.fergusscottishfestival.com.
