Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Columbus Scottish Festival

One of the things I truly enjoy about living in Columbus, Indiana is that it never stops surprising me. (Not always in a good way... I've been truly shocked by behavior I've observed at WalMart. But that's true everywhere, right?)

Often these moments of unexpected joy happen at events we decide to check out spur of the moment. A few weekends ago, we headed to the Columbus Scottish Festival. A celebration of Scotland smack dab in the middle of southern Indiana. Naturally.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Cheesey attempts at the Scottish brogue? Lame faux kilts? Out of tune bagpipers? So far from the truth. Yes, we saw kilts. But they were the real deal.



Later, Little Arrow tapped his toes while Big Arrow rocked out to the tunes of a funky Celtic band.




Then we listened to a dragon tell tales of knights and princesses.



But my favorite part of the day was observing the opening ceremonies, followed by the Highland Games. All extremely authentic. I never realized how moving the sound of dozens and dozens of bagpipers could be. (I kind of expected Mel Gibson to come riding through on horseback shouting "Freedom!!!")



And I was incredibly impressed by men who could launch a 50 lb. weight high into the air while wearing a kilt.



Only to be outdone by men launching towering logs across the field.



Scotland has long been on my list of places to visit. At least I got a little taste right in my own backyard.


PS: The Arrows had a lot of fun at the Festival and were all smiles (until it was time to leave).



This post is part of Photo Friday at Delicious Baby and Friday Daydreamin' at R We There Yet Mom?

8 comments:

  1. What FUN!! I LOVE festivals like this - learning a new culture and all the activities that go with it!

    Thanks for sharing!

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  2. Who can resist men in Kilts? hope the bagpipes weren't too loud!

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  3. That looks like so much fun! There is a Highland Games that takes place not too far from here and we have never been. I have been to Scotland though and can't wait to go back! That tapping toes pic is too adorable!! :)

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  4. This looks great! You should definitely come and see the real deal some time. :)

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  5. I love cultural festivals! And now it's Oktoberfest time, so lots of fun to be had everywhere!

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  6. Those feats of strength are amazing. My friend once bought her kids a Celtic rock CD from a festival. They'd listen to it every day. Then, she found out that the English translation wasn't exactly suited for kids' ears.

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  7. Scottish people always really celebrate amazing festivals. Amazing strength of these accomplishments

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