Highland Games back for another year

“The Scottish Festival is our most visible activity here. I was and still am a piper, and many years ago, myself and some friends decided that Montreal needed a festival like this and that’s how the Games first began,” said organizing chairman Kirk Johnstone.

The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. with the solo highland dancing, solo piping and drumming competition. The day will proceed with the concession opening at 9 a.m., heavy athletic events at 10 a.m., which will include two competitors from Scotland this year. The refreshment tent will open at 11 a.m.

The official opening ceremonies, which will include firing of the cannon and massed bands with over 800 pipers and drummers, will begin at 12:30 p.m. The afternoon will include activities such as the continuation of the solo highland dancing, heaving athletic events and pipe band competitions. The closing ceremonies commence at 5:30 p.m. and the refreshment tent will close at 8:30 p.m. Admission for adults is $15 and children under the age of 12 can enjoy the events for free. A free program and parking is provided with admission. Also, the George Springate Sports Centre is wheelchair accesible and pet friendly.

Anyone coming from downtown Montreal can hop on the free shuttle bus leaving every 20 to 30 minutes from Hurley’s Pub at 1225 Crescent St. beginning at 9 a.m. with the last shuttle leaving at 8 p.m.

There will be over 60 boutiques selling Celtic jewelry and other goods. There will also be food kiosques with Canadian and Scottish delights including haggis and bridies. Genealogical information will be on hand for anyone wishing to trace their roots, and the band Kitchen Party will be performing in the refreshment tent. For the kids, there will be an air bounce inflatable game and pony rides, all free of charge. The Girl Guides will be on hand offering a nursing and changing facility for mothers and their babies.

“The festival is an eight-ring circus of Scottish music, dance and culture,” Johnstone said.

The George Springate Sports Centre is located behind Pierrefonds Comprehensive High School, 13800 Pierrefonds Blvd. For more information, check www.montrealhighlandgames.qc.ca.