East Tennessee’s archival roots are never all that far from the surface, one reason why the Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games as one of the region’s most highly anticipated events of the entire year.
It’s also a reason why its organizers thrive to come up with new additives and elements each year in order to maintain the high bar set in festivals past.
This year’s event, taking place this weekend — Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19 — and hosted by the Townsend Visitor’s Center, will continue to offer something special for both the clans and the curious. Now in its 42nd year, the festival maintains it’s mission “to preserve the heritage and culture of Scotland by fostering national and international sporting, dancing and music competition, as well as cultural performances of the Scottish clans, education, folklore, music, arts, piping, drumming, athletic events and other festivities in the area. The SMSFG shall remain a viable leader in family entertainment and good stewards of our assets, giving back to the community.”
Naturally, that includes all manner of uniquely Highland activities, including music, athletics, pipes and drums, dancing, whiskey tastings, an array of vendors and beer and food from the Scottish, Irish and British homelands.
“For 2024, we’re bringing back much of the same entertainment lineup as we did last year, as it was so successful and popular with our crowds,” said Keith Austin, sponsor and marketing chair for the Festival and Games. “New this year will be an East Tennessee group called Tuatha Dea on our main entertainment stage.”
In fact, there will be three stages of music. “The Edinburgh stage will have more of the rock format, bands, like Pictus, Syr, Kirkin’ of the Tartan, and Tuatha Dea,” Austin said. “On the Glasgow stage, you’ll find more of the folk type music as presented by Colin Grant-Adams, Trip Rogers, Ghosts of Bannockburn, Ken Kinnfolo, Kinnfolk, and Glen Ayer. The Saint Andrew stage will feature cultural talks and presentations on traditional Scottish craft.”
So too, more than 55 clans will be represented, which is more or less the same number as last year. “The clans can trace their roots back centuries,” Austin added. “Most of the clan attendees are living in this country and come to several different festivals like this throughout the year. The Friday night clan torch lighting is a great opportunity to learn more, as the clans come forward at sundown and announce their attendance.
Of course, the event attracts more than the clans. Austin said they typically expect between eight and ten thousand visitors, and it should be the same this year as well.
Naturally, the games offer a special attraction to those whose family lineage is connected to the British Isles. “According to the census bureau, one out of every five East Tennessee residents can trace their roots back to Scotts-Irish ancestry,” Austin said. “Scotland has influenced culture over the world, in areas like art, entertainment, sports, literature, and so much more. We encourage people to come and experience the traditions of that culture.”
Austin himself has been involved with the festivities for nearly a decade. “Coming out of a communications and advertising background, I was able to help with getting the word out about this festival,” he said. “I truly enjoy seeing all the different ways that the Scotts-Irish have influenced today’s culture. For me, the Austin family was a part of the Keith clan, so it’s just a natural fit.”
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