Description

The sounds of bagpipes return for the 29th Annual Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival on Saturday, February 24, 2024. The family-friendly event provides visitors with a glimpse into Scottish culture, history, athletics, food and entertainment. The event will be held at the Clay County Fairgrounds located at 2497 State Road 16 West in Green Cove Springs, about 30 miles south of downtown Jacksonville.

The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – with additional entertainment planned until 10 p.m. Parking is free. Admission is $15 in advance and $20 at the gate the day of the event. Children, age 10 and under, are admitted for free. The Honored Clan this year is House of Gordon.

Entertainment this year is presented by the Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival and Guinness and includes the Celtic bands Albannach, Syr and Poehemia. A fireworks show will be held immediately following the conclusion of the evening Celtic Rock Concert.

“The Games reflect the deep connections and influence of the Scots and their descendants,” said Audie Gibson, President of the Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival. “We are grateful for the support of the community the past 29 years. We are excited to provide a fireworks show this year.”

Thousands of visitors and kilt-clad Scots gather every year to celebrate the history of our Scottish ancestry and watch the exciting athletic competitions known as Highland Games. Highlights of the festival includes bagpipe, drumming and Scottish fiddling competitions. The Tartan parade at noon features Scottish descendants marching with the symbol of their clan to open the festival. Attendees can meet Scottish horses, Highland Cows and visit the children’s area with activities and a petting zoo.

There is so much to do and see at the Games, but a big draw every year is the vendors. Traditional Scottish food is available, such as Haggis, fish and chips, and Scotch eggs. Genealogy experts will be onsite to help individuals discover their ancestral history. Afterwards, they can visit with the numerous clan displays around the arena and shop the vendors for clan items, including kilts, tartans, crests and badges.

The Northeast Florida Games & Festival supports several charities in the Northeast Florida area. Our primary recipient this year is In The Pink.

For more information about the event, please visit the website at www.neflgames.com or find us on Facebook at Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival.

For Tickets, click HERE