The 55th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and Gathering of Scottish Clans bring music and entertainment to thousands July 8 through 11.
     Traditional and modern Celtic music flood the meadows at dusk and continue into the night. Visitors are welcomed to spread out a blanket and experience the Celtic performances in the shadows of Grandfather Mountain.
     Each night is unique and features different aspects of Scottish culture. The celebration kicks off with Thursday night’s Opening Ceremonies. Spectators are invited to an informal picnic beginning at 4:30 p.m. in MacRae Meadows.  
     Visitors are welcome to bring food and food concessions will also be available for purchase.  During the early evening there are bagpipe band performances as well as sheep herding demonstrations by Scottish border collies.
     As night falls over the meadows, the leaders of 112 sponsoring clans proudly carry their torches to let it be known that their family line is represented at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.
     The torchlight ceremony is held to invoke the “Spirit of the Clans” upon the gathering. The primitive ceremony hearkens back to the days when Celts banned together on the fields of battle to defend the Highlands from invaders.
     Friday night’s festivities begin with the Scottish Country Dance Gala at 8 p.m. and run until midnight at Lees-McRae Williams Gymnasium. This event features a colorful display of the old-time Scottish dances passed down through generations. Admission for dancers is $25 and admission for spectators is $10.
     The Celtic Jam held in MacRae Meadows Friday night features performances that shed light on the connections between the traditional music of the British Isles and the bluegrass music of the Southern Appalachians.
     The Celtic Rock Concert on Saturday night, held in MacRae Meadows is sure to get the blood pumping and serve up a memorable evening of Celtic Rock. The concert showcases high-energy performances by Albannach, Mother Grove, the Forget Me Nots, Blessed Blend, Teribus, Brother and Clandestine. Tickets to the Celtic Rock Concert are $15 for adults and $5 for children with free parking available on a first come basis.
     For more information on the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games phone (828) 733-1333 or visit online www.gmhg.org. For lodging and other travel information, contact North Carolina High Country Host at (800)-438-7500.

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