Events where ACS representatives may be found

Minnesota Games by John L. Fairbairn, ACS Upper Midwest Representative

The first Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games will be held on 10 July 2004 at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington Minnesota.  This is an all-day event, and is the premier gathering of the Clans for the Scottish community in the Upper Midwest.  Representatives from over 40 Clans are expected to participate.  In addition, there will be a large assembly of Scottish and Celtic vendors, and events and displays of interest to all persons of Gaelic heritage.

 

As a historic note, this is the successor to the Macalester College Scottish Country Fair and Games.  While the College has declined to be the host for future games, the event planners acknowledge with appreciation 31 previous years of support and hosting for this annual gathering.  Macalester College continues to be a supporting and contributing sponsor of the Fair in its new environment.

 

Events include Calling the Clans, accredited heavy games, Parade of Tartans, accredited dance contests, accredited Pipe and Drum contests, and two appearances of the Massed Pipe Band.  The heavy games will include events in the Open Stone Put, Braemar Stone Put, 56 lb. Weight for Distance, 28 lb. Weight for Distance, 22 lb. Hammer Throw, 16 lb. Hammer Throw, Caber Toss, Sheaf Toss, and the 56 lb. Weight for Height.

 

Last year, over 20,000 people attended and participated in the one-day event.  This year promises to be even better, with a more favorable (warmer) time of year and a much larger venue.  If we have a good turnout, consideration will be given to extending the event to a second day in future years.  Please come and join us as we present a day of Scottish rejoicing.

 

For more information, please come and visit at the Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games Web site at http://www.mnscottishfair.org/.