Recently I was asked to help out with the annual Highland Games here in Cambridge. An all day event, the Games were a celebration of everything Scottish. There were Scottish dancing competitions, booths full of interesting food and drink, sheep shearing, and tests of strength – everything from a tug-of-war, where teams pulled on a rope from opposite ends, to lifting and throwing large logs. The athletes showed almost superhuman strength, especially since it was a very hot day.
The highlight of the Highland Games was, of course, the bagpipes. To some, their music may sound a little unusual, but to those of us with any Scottish blood, bagpipes are heavenly music. Bands traveled from all over Ontario and parts of the United States to compete at the games. The bands each had their own colour of kilts (the skirt-like outfits that even the men wear) and paraded into the grounds playing the bagpipes, drums, and cymbals. It was an awesome sight.
Many small towns in Canada hold Highland Games, so plan to attend and take your camera with you.
Related posts:
