The Scottish Tartan Festival, sponsored by Webster Parish Tourism, brought large crowds to Miller Quarters Park in downtown Minden on April 12, as attendees enjoyed music, food, and cultural exhibitions under clear spring skies.
Hosted by the Scottish Society of Louisiana Highlands, the annual event featured a wide array of exhibitions and vendors. Tartans representing numerous Scottish clans were on display, with many festival goers arriving in themed attire to celebrate their heritage.
The festival showcased both traditional and modern musical acts, including pipers and bands, as well as dancers and a parade of clans highlighting their names and tartans. Craft demonstrations included pottery making, flint knapping, and basket weaving. Storytelling sessions and a birds of prey exhibition drew interest from attendees of all ages.
Trey Campbell won the haggis eating contest yet again, finishing his portion of the traditional Scottish dish made from sheep organs before the other competitors.
The “bonniest knees” competition returned, featuring a blindfolded judge who selected the winning knees by touch alone.
The event also hosted a popular dog show, with several pets dressed in costume. The Highland Games, in its third consecutive year, included events such as the caber toss, weight for throw, weight over bar, and the sheaf toss, attracting both new and returning competitors.
Organizers reported a successful turnout and praised the community’s participation in the daylong celebration of Scottish culture.
