On Saturday, I had the joy of going to yet another Amazing Highland Gathering, but this was my first one in Charleston. I love to go to at least one every year, and this one was a blast!
When I had the pleasure of going to Scotland and Ireland a couple of years ago, with Mama in tow, we both loved it so. I love the culture. I love the land. I love the people. The Gaelic people, if you will. And, I have such a heart for that culture, land, and people.
Yes, I am, as so many of us are, of Scottish and Irish descent. And, proudly so . . . indeed. To go to gatherings is like going home to me. I felt the same way when in Scotland and Ireland. Honestly. I just feel at home there.
First of all, I love driving up and hearing the pipes piping and drums drumming . . . tuning their instruments and practicing their stance. Of course, at that moment in time so early in the day, it is more of a mess as they are all playing and tuning and marching on top of one another, but I love it! I can hardly stand it to even park the car . . . I just want to jump out there and dance a jig! This year’s event was no different.
I always love to arrive early in the morning, so I was there from opening to closing ceremonies. There were lots of pipe and drum bands . . . parading and competing. There was a Highland Dancing Competition (it rocked!!!). There was “Shep” the dog herding his sheep and ducks. There were lots and lots and lots of KILTS . . . nice!!! There were Highland Games. There were Kids Games. I took a number of dance lessons were we danced some of the Highland dances . . . much like our Square Dancing. There was lots of food . . . and, HAGGIS!!! YUMMY – MY FAVORITE!!! There was music and merriment everywhere!
The gathering was held at Boone Hall Plantation, which was another treat. I had not been there in some time, and I am really wanting to go back again soon. I think I will take Mama when she is here. It was such a fun day.
Wow, sounds like you really had a great time! I’ve only been to one Highland Games gathering, back in 1983, I think. That one was held at Middleton Place. And while, like you, I’ve been to Ireland, I have yet to make it to Scotland, and I should. That is an important location on my list of need-to-go-there places.
By: Steve on September 16, 2007
at 8:58 pm
I’m trying to leave a response but it won’t let me.
By: Steve on September 16, 2007
at 9:48 pm
That sounds like a really fun time, Crystal. I have only been to one Highland Games gathering, back in 1983, I think. That one was at Middleton Place, and it was memorable. And even though I’ve been to Ireland (and want to go back), I still haven’t been to Scotland. I need to make it there sometime.
By: Steve on September 17, 2007
at 10:26 pm
I am glad you enjoyed the little snippet from my day, Steve. But, there was too much to even begin to describe, so I included the Cliff’s Notes Version.
It was wonderful a wonderful festival. And, you should go to Scotland . . . I want to go back to both Ireland and Scotland . . . many times, actually.
And, Middleton Place is just a few miles up the road from here . . . wonder if that was the same or a different games? I should look into that.
By: Crystal on September 17, 2007
at 10:44 pm
I am a piper in one of the bands that was there. All of the hard work and practice that go into belonging in a pipe band are worth while when I read comments like yours. I remember my first highland games about a dozen years ago. I had never heard live piping. The massed bands early in the morning marching out of the mist stood the hair up on my arms. I was hooked. It’s great knowing I have a small part in helping others experience the same feelings.
Best to you,
John
By: John on September 20, 2007
at 7:08 am
Thank you, John, for the comment.
And, I do remember seeing your band. And, I was thinking when I saw y’all there that I really want to go to the Grandfather Mountain Games one day. I hear it is one of the best in the world – even when compared to those in Scotland – and, it is great you are a member of that fantastic group!
Good to hear that you enjoy what you do so much. Keep up the great work, and I hope to catch your band again sometime!
Slainte’!
Crystal
By: Crystal on September 20, 2007
at 10:45 pm
I hope you make it up one Summer. The Grandfather games are my favorite, for sure. For just piping and drumming, the Stone Mountain, Ga. or the Greenville, SC. games are very good. They are major competitions for bands, as is Charleston. The Grandfather games are more relaxed for us since there are only solo competitions. If you do make it up one Summer, bring a jacket! It can be very cool in the mornings on the mountain.
By: John on September 21, 2007
at 6:52 am