Hosted for the final time in Aye-Tasca (get it?) before moving locations next year, Illinois’ oldest non-profit is bringing back the beloved two-day Scottish extravaganza featuring cooking demonstrations by the National Chef of Scotland, North America’s largest and most prestigious pipe band competition, the crowd-pleasing heavy athletics, The Dogs of Scotland with a rescue dog agility show, and so much more!

The 37th Annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games, to Hamilton Lakes, 1 Pierce Place, Itasca, IL, on Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17. This treasured two-day summer-kickoff celebration will once again bring back all the crowd favorites along with some exciting new additions. From the iconic caber toss and haggis throwing to the Grade 1 – largest and most prestigious pipe band (bagpipes and drums) championship in North America. New to this year’s lineup, cooking demonstrations with Chef Gary Maclean, the national chef of Scotland, an expansion of their kids area including a family-friendly cricket demonstration led by Tom Melville, American cricket player, teacher and author, and an opportunity to meet a Clydesdale Horse.

Over the past 37 years, this iconic festival has attracted as many as 15,000 attendees annually to experience Scotland’s rich culture and special heritage and has featured all grades of competitions for athletes, dancers, musicians and canines, alike. The festival launches at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 16 and will kick off with national and international heavy athletics champions, along with dance competitions for all ages, live Celtic rock music, and marketplace shopping for kilts, jewelry and other Scottish treasures.

The festivities continue Saturday, June 17 from 8 a.m.- 10 p.m. Attendees will enjoy beer, whisky and other refreshments as they observe various competitions throughout the afternoon such as the Full Pipe Band competitions and men and women Heavy Athletics. Patrons can also make their way to the Celtic Rock Stage for live entertainment and watch Scottish contests such as the Haggis Hurling, Haggis Eating, Knobbly Knees and more! The Games will conclude with a closing ceremony and massed band show that will feature over 1,000 bagpipers and drummers performing traditional musical selections including Amazing Grace that is both moving and is it extraordinary.

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