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ScotsFest, the largest annual festival in Independence County, returns to the Lyon College campus in Batesville the weekend of Oct. 17-19. The campus will come alive with the sound of bagpipes, the intensity of Highland games, and the energy of homecoming celebrations. Steeped in Lyon College’s history, ScotsFest honors the Scottish traditions that have shaped the college since its founding in 1872. Established by Presbyterian ministers of Scottish descent, the college maintains a strong connection to Scotland’s culture and values. The festival, which began in 1979 as a modest event on the college’s intramural field, has evolved into one of Arkansas’s preeminent cultural celebrations. This year’s festivities are expected to attract more than 6,000 attendees and generate significant economic impact for Batesville and Independence County.
The weekend’s events kick off Friday with open Lyon College classes, vendors and Scottish clan gatherings, a Scottish Heritage Program director’s reception and a free rocket-building workshop. The day concludes with the annual alumni awards celebration on campus and an all-alumni social at Polk & Paddle in downtown Batesville.
Saturday’s lineup includes classic ScotsFest traditions such as Highland heavy athletics, living history presentations by MacLachlan’s Jacobite Highlanders and Colonel Munro’s 37th Regiment of Foot, Scottish dancing, sheepdog demonstrations, pipe band performances, a British car show and a dog show. New this year, a petting zoo offers fun for all ages.
Visitors can explore their Scottish heritage in the Robert Lewis Campbell Scottish Clan Village, where more than 20 Scottish clans will have displays and information about their unique histories and traditions. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the rich stories behind family names, connect with clan representatives and discover the deep roots that tie many to Scotland’s past.
Alongside these festivities, homecoming activities will include reunions for student organizations and athletic teams, tailgating and a pep rally. The excitement will peak with the homecoming football game, as the Scots take on Centenary College at 3:30 p.m. in Lyon College’s brand-new Bad Boy Mowers Stadium.
Entertainment throughout the weekend will include performances by internationally known Celtic rock band Mudmen, Celtic songstress Misty Posey, entertainer and bagpipe educator Patrick Regan, dozens of pipe and drum bands, and the award-winning Central High School Kiltie Drum and Bugle Corps of Springfield, Missouri.
“This year, we’re welcoming several fine pipe bands from around the country, and the opening ceremonies on Saturday at noon will feature cherished favorites like ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘Scotland the Brave,’” said Jimmy Bell, director of the Scottish Heritage Program at Lyon College. “ScotsFest is a wonderful celebration that brings the spirit of Scottish culture alive here in Batesville, and it’s always a joy to see folks of all ages come together and enjoy it.”
No Scottish festival would be complete without authentic cuisine, and ScotsFest 2025 is no exception. Attendees can indulge in a delectable array of traditional foods, including savory meat pies, flaky Scottish pastries and other mouthwatering favorites that pay homage to the rich culinary traditions of Scotland.
The festival culminates on Sunday with a Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service and the annual Club 50 luncheon, ensuring a weekend rich in both cultural immersion and college spirit.
General admission to the festival is free; however, some alumni and festival activities, including the Friday evening alumni awards banquet, the Saturday evening cèilidh feast and entertainment zone, are ticketed special events.
Proceeds from ScotsFest 2025 help support the Scottish Heritage Program at Lyon College, ensuring the continuation and growth of its cultural and educational initiatives. Funds raised also provide scholarships for Lyon College students.
"We welcome everyone to join in celebrating our Scottish roots and Lyon College’s strong community connections,” said Pam Palermo, senior director of conferences and events and festival director.
For a full schedule and more information, visit arscottishfest.com.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
2300 Highland Rd, Batesville, AR, United States, Arkansas 72501
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