IDELWILD PARK: Ligonier Highland Games

LIGONIER, Pa.,None — Ligonier Highland Games a benefit for the Clan Donald Education and Charitable Trust September 11, 2010 Idlewild Park, Ligonier, PA

For more than 50 years, the skirl of the bagpipes has drawn those of Celtic descent – and those who appreciate the Celtic culture – to the beautiful woods in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. Idlewild Park, located on Route 30 in Ligonier, is home to the Ligonier Highland Games which will be held September 11, 2010. The event offers a piping contest, open to the public, on Friday, September 10, at the Four Points Sheraton. Then, on Saturday, September 11, more than 10,000 will gather to celebrate Scottish traditions including competition piping, fiddling, and drumming; athletic events including tossing the caber and the Scottish hammer throw; Highland dancing and Scottish country dancing; and a living history demonstration of the Scottish military. At 12:00 noon, welcoming ceremonies will feature performances by the Massed Bands (all competition and demonstration pipe and drum groups). Part of the day's festivities will be an appearance by the Lord Lyon, the Chief Herald of Scotland to Queen Elizabeth II, the oldest heraldic office in existence. Visitors will also enjoy musicians from all over the world, Scottish breed dog exhibits, and the timeless tradition of Gaelic Mod, a competition involving Scottish Gaelic prose, poetry, and song. Vendors display Celtic wares including pottery, jewelry, tartans, Scottish food, and, of course, kilts! Regional clans host tents that allow visitors to explore the history and legend of each family group. The Games begin at 9:00 am and will conclude at 6:00 pm. This event allows those of Scottish heritage – and those who appreciate that heritage – to experience many facets of the Celtic culture. The Games will culminate with a traditional Ceilidh (a traditional Gaelic social dancing and dining event) at the Millcreek in Ligonier.

ADMISSION: Adults: $18.00 Seniors: $15 (55 and over) Children (9-15): $8.00 Children under 9: FREE

FREE PARKING For more information, visit www.ligonierhighlandgames.org.

Send inquiries to ligonierhighlandgames@hotmail.com or call 814-931-4714.

WPXI