Highland Games & Celtic Festival honors Scottish culture

In 1885, a group of Scots arrived on the shores of Sarasota. 

Although they were met with drought and wilderness instead of the town they were promised, with many leaving in disappointment, the remaining Scots helped establish the town of Sarasota. 

Bob Fair, president of Suncoast Scots, said this history is why the Suncoast Scottish Highland Games & Celtic Festival, which was held Feb. 1, resonates with the public. 

He noted the large turnout at the event, which included piping and drumming, Highland games such as the caber toss and stone put, and a Highland dance competition.

"My ancestors have Scottish roots, and it's just an honor for me to be able to pick this instrument up in my life and play it," said Fair, who plays the bagpipes with Lion Rampant Pipe & Drum. 

It was the second year that Suncoast Scots, a nonprofit devoted to preserving Scottish culture, has hosted the event.

"Two years ago, I personally put 100 dollars in a checking account to start it, and here look at this today, so I am so pleased and happy that we've been able to do this," Fair said. 

The festival drew competitors and musicians from far and wide, such as Ethan Albrecht-Carrie, a participant in the Highland games from Orlando.

"It's a small community, and so, wherever the game is, we show up," he said. "It's as much for each other as it is for the fans, which have a great time. It's a really nice family."