Lyon College will honor its Scottish roots Oct. 17–19 when ScotsFest returns to campus, bringing three days of music, athletics, and heritage to Batesville.
Now one of Arkansas’ largest cultural events, the annual festival blends Highland traditions with modern entertainment, featuring clan gatherings, traditional Scottish games, homecoming activities, and a concert by Canadian Celtic rock band Mudmen. Organizers expect more than 6,000 visitors.
Founded in 1872 by Presbyterian ministers of Scottish descent, Lyon College began hosting the festival in 1979 as a small campus celebration. It has since evolved into a signature state event highlighting music, dance, and community.
This year’s new attractions include the Robert Lewis Campbell Scottish Clan Village with more than 20 clans, a traveling axe-throwing range, a pirate ship-themed game area, and a petting zoo. Celtic singer-songwriter Misty Posey, bagpipe educator Patrick Regan, and Lyon art professor Cody Norton — who is creating a commemorative festival tartan — will also perform and demonstrate.
The weekend begins Friday with open classes, alumni events and a rocket-building workshop, followed by Highland athletics, pipe bands, Scottish dancing and a homecoming football game at the new Bad Boy Mowers Stadium.
The Mudmen will headline Saturday’s entertainment, joined by the Central High School Kiltie Drum and Bugle Corps of Springfield, Missouri, celebrating its 100th year.
“ScotsFest brings the spirit of Scottish culture alive here in Batesville,” said Jimmy Bell, director of Lyon’s Scottish Heritage Program. “It’s always a joy to see folks of all ages come together and enjoy it.”
Admission is free, though some events require tickets. Proceeds support the Lyon College Scottish Heritage Program and student scholarships.
Lyon College’s Director of Development for Scottish Heritage Kenton Adler dropped by White River Now Wednesday morning to visit with Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ’s Chad Whiteaker about this year’s ScotsFest. Listen to their interview below:
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Click here for all the information about this year’s ScotsFest. Click here for this year’s schedule of events.
All ScotsFest images via Lyon College / Adler: White River Now
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