Ever wonder exactly what a “Gathering of the Scottish Clans” is all about? It is one great big family reunion with lots of excitement and entertainment.
The word ‘Clan’ means family. Many Clans have very extended family ties that are known as Septs. Septs are either what we know today as in-laws or are non-related families that lived under the protection of the Clan Chief. Each Clan has a tartan with a plaid that is designed for a particular Clan. If you belong to that Clan, then you may wear their tartan.
Clan Tents are set up around the main field where the families of each Clan gather to watch the competition. If you find your family name at one of these tents, there will be someone there to welcome you and tell you about your family history as it relates to the Clan.
The Games are centered around a field of athletic competition which includes the well know “Caber Toss”. There is also competition of Pipe & Drum Bands, individual Pipers and Drummers. Lassies and Laddies compete in the Highland Dance as well.
Entertainment includes Country Dancing, a Dog Show, and Clan Competitions that can get pretty intense, not to mention several incredible Stage Performing Bands, Balladeers, a Comedian and Kid’s Playground & athletic competitions. Of course, there has to be ‘Education’, even it it is learning about the different types of Scotch. Can we help it if you have to take a wee sip?
Whether or not your ancestors hailed from the Highlands, the Lowlands or the Islands, when you leave the Smoky Mountain Highland Games, you will know what it means to be a SCOT.