RANKED #7 OF “THE TOP 100 THINGS TO DO IN ARKANSAS” BY AY MAGAZINE

The Highland Games (now ScotsFest) were established in 1979 on the Arkansas College campus as a way to pay homage to the Scottish heritage of the College’s Presbyterian founders. With the support of President Dan West and college administrators, including Dennis Wright, the festival began as a small Scottish fair on the campus’ intramural field as a part of homecoming celebrations. As it grew, the festival moved onto a larger area surrounding the field, and then moved again in 2004 to incorporate the central area of the college campus.

Experience the Arkansas Scottish Festival

Every October, the foothills of the Ozarks come alive with the sights, sounds, and traditions of Scotland at ScotsFest, the Arkansas Scottish Festival and Homecoming, at Lyon College in Batesville. What began as a small, relatively obscure fair has grown into one of the best-known Scottish festivals in the South, drawing pipe bands, solo pipers, drummers, dancers, Highland athletes, Celtic performers, Scottish clan representatives, and vendors from across the country.

From the stirring sounds of massed pipe bands to Highland games, live music, traditional dancing, and family-friendly activities, the festival offers a full weekend of Scottish culture, entertainment, and Lyon College homecoming traditions.

Friday: Welcome to ScotsFest

The festivities begin Friday at noon, when the festival welcomes school field trips and the general public for a special introduction to Scottish heritage. Visitors can explore select vendors, meet Scottish clan representatives, and watch a tartan-weaving demonstration.

Friday’s activities also include the director’s reception and annual Lyon College Alumni Awards Celebration, a homecoming bonfire and pep rally, and an Alumni and Friends Social at Polk & Paddle in downtown Batesville.

Saturday: A full day of Scottish tradition and fun

Festival gates open at 8 a.m. Saturday, kicking off a full day of activities for all ages. Grab breakfast from one of the food vendors, then explore the festival grounds and discover the rich traditions of Scotland.

Lil’ Highlanders Fun Zone

ScotsFest is fun for the whole family, and the Lil’ Highlanders Fun Zone is the perfect place for our youngest festivalgoers! Kids can enjoy a petting zoo, bounce houses, their own kids Highland games, and the delightful Lil’ Highlanders Tea Party. With plenty of opportunities to play, explore, and experience a little Scottish tradition, there’s something to make every young Highlander smile. Bring the whole family and let the little ones join in the fun!

Highland games, music, and more

Watch the skill and precision of piping competitions, cheer on Highland athletes, enjoy sheepdog demonstrations and Highland dancing, and experience living history demonstrations. Families can enjoy children’s games, while car enthusiasts can admire the British Car Show. Browse an array of vendors and crafters, and visit Scottish clans in Clan Village to learn more about family heritage and Scottish traditions.

Looking for a place to relax and enjoy live music? Beginning at 11 a.m., head to the Ozark Beer Co. Entertainment Zone for great performances, food, and drinks throughout the day.

Opening ceremonies and massed bands

At noon, gather for the festival’s opening ceremonies, featuring a parade of massed pipe bands and Scottish clans. The powerful sound of the pipes and drums, combined with the colorful pageantry of the clans, makes this a festival highlight you won’t want to miss.

Live music and entertainment

The Entertainment Zone keeps the energy going throughout the afternoon with performances by Patrick Regan, The Gravel Yard, and Misty Posey. Pipe band demonstrations featuring groups from across the region, including the Lyon College Pipe Band, bring Scottish musical traditions to life. Highland dancing, clan gatherings, and festival vendors provide even more opportunities to explore and enjoy the day.

Lyon College homecoming

ScotsFest is also a celebration of Lyon College pride and tradition. Join alumni, students, families, and friends for homecoming festivities, including tailgating, alumni reunions, and the homecoming football game at Bad Boy Mowers Stadium on the Lyon College campus.

A feast and ceilidh

End Saturday with a feast and ceilidh (pronounced KAY-lee), a traditional gathering filled with music, dancing and fellowship. Bring your dancing shoes and get ready to celebrate!

Purchase your ceilidh tickets in advance.

Sunday: Fishing, fellowship and Celtic traditions

The festival fun continues Sunday morning with scones and tea, followed by a traditional Kirkin’ O’ the Tartans worship service.

ScotsFest Fishing Derby

Grab your fishing gear and head to Bryan Lake for the ScotsFest Fishing Derby! This free family-friendly event offers a chance to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with fellow festivalgoers, and make more ScotsFest memories. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will be there with its mobile unit and will provide fishing poles and share expertise.

Make plans to attend!

Whether you come to celebrate your Scottish heritage, experience the music and traditions, cheer on the Highland athletes, enjoy live entertainment, or make memories with family and friends, the Arkansas Scottish Festival offers something for everyone.

Join us at Lyon College in Batesville for a weekend filled with Scottish spirit, Southern hospitality and traditions that bring generations together.

Explore the complete festival schedule at ARScottishFest.com, and start planning your ScotsFest weekend!