Join the 2023 Uxbridge Scottish Festival

COURTNEY McCLURE, The Standard

UXBRIDGE: The Uxbridge Scottish Festival is returning to Elgin Park, on Saturday, July 22nd. Gates open at 8 a.m. and closes at 7 p.m. The entry “fee” to the Festival is by donation only.

The last Scottish Festival was hosted about three years ago, in 2020.

“It’s good to be back,” said Stewart Bennett, the organizer of the Scottish Festival.

Mr. Bennett and other staff expect between 2 and 3-thousand guests at this year’s Festival.

Attending the Scottish Festival is a great way for the community to immerse themselves in Celtic culture.

“We get a lot of people who want to learn how to play the bagpipes when they see the pipe bands,” explained Mr. Bennett.

The pipe bands are usually very popular, and there will be about 200 highland dancers coming to the park. Some of the dancers are world and Canadian champions. “Many young [people] might enjoy learning highland dancing because it’s pretty amazing,” Stewart continued.

Multiple dog breeds, originating from Scotland, will also be present at the Festival. There are about 13 Scottish breeds, including the Scottish Terrier.

“[The dogs] are always fun, and people love [seeing] them,” said Mr. Bennett.

Various vendors will be showing up as well. Some vendors include Sheena’s Scottish Shortbread and Holmesmade Creations.

The local brewery, the Second Wedge, will also be participating in this year’s festivities.

Various forms of entertainment will also be present throughout the duration of the Festival, with the opening ceremony around noon.

“We could always use volunteers,” added Mr. Bennett. So, there are many volunteer opportunities for people who are interested.

“There’s something there for everybody,” he said.

If you would like to volunteer, you can call Stewart Bennett, at 905-926-8343. To learn more about the Uxbridge Scottish Festival, please visit uxbridgescottishfestival.com.