Built For Kilt

(Page 10)
By Todd Curran
Participants in the Foothills Highland Games kicked up their heels and kilts at a new venue in Okotoks on August 28th.
After being held for 10 successful years in High River, the event has relocated to Foothills Composite High School to attract new sponsors and volunteers. The location may have changed, but spectators are receiving the same level of great entertainment, much of which has been Scottish tradition for nine centuries.
Competitors from across North America flock to the event, eager to test their mettle in the drumming, dancing, piping and heavy games competitions. Spectators of all ages flock to watch the action, sample the food and enjoy live Celtic music, sheep herding dogs and the ceilidh (party).
Tragically, I missed a most welcome new addition to the event; a Scotch-tasting hosted by The Wine Station, which featured samplings of fine Scotch and whiskies. Vendors offer food, clothing, crafts and other goods reminiscent of the plaid island, and the overall experience is well worth the price of admission.
You don't have to be of Scottish descent to enjoy the games or get a sentimental tear of Celtic pride in your eye as you ponder the unofficial motto of Scotland: “We're not English.”
For more information visit:
www.foothillshighlandgames.ca.