The Federation of Scottish Clans In Nova Scotia

The Federation was founded in 1982 with the aims and objectives of stimulating interest in Scottish culture and connections, improvements in communications between the various Clan Societies in Nova Scotia and the coordination of their various activities. Federation representatives are present on the field today and are available to answer your questions on Scottish culture, Scottish dress, Clan Societies and to assist you in searching your Scottish roots and genealogy. Please visit our tent, which is situated in The Avenue of Scottish Clans.

The Great Halifax Haggis Toss

Clans Lamont and Henderson are sponsoring and organizing the annual Great Halifax Haggis Toss. This fun event, which will be open to anyone attending the Games, will be held at 2 PM in the Avenue of the Scottish Clans. Suitable prizes will be awarded to male and female participants. Please sign up for the event at either of the Clan Lamont or Henderson tents.

Host Clan of Honour: Clan Henderson

The Halifax Highland Games is pleased to recognize Clan Henderson as this year's Clan of Honour, and welcomes all Hendersons who may be visiting with us today.

The Family of Henderson originated in several areas in Scotland, primarily in Glencoe, Caithness, Liddledale, The Shetlands and Fordell. All Hendersons were united under one chief in 1985 when the Lord Lyon declared Dr. John Henderson of Fordell as, "Chief of the Baronial House of Henderson of Fordell and as Chief of the Name and Arms of Henderson".

A small clan, the Hendersons have been involved in the mainstream of history, from clan battles in the Highlands, to the plantation of Ulster, the Jacobite uprisings, the Massacre at Glencoe, and emigration to Austrailia and North America.

Sola Virtus Nobilitat

Features at the Halifax Highland Games and Scottish Festival

Pipes and Drums

You will be privileged to witness one of the first in a summer round of pipe and drum competitions at the Halifax Highland Games. These competitions provide an opportunity for solo players and bands to hone their skills for awards certified by the Atlantic Canadian Pipe Bands Association. Each Band is ultimately striving for the "Champion Supreme" award in their Grade at the end of the season.

Highland Dancing

Over the years Highland dancing in Nova Scotia has attained the top level of performance under prescribed technique of the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing. Keen competition among young dancers of various age levels reflects a grace of poise and movement particular to the dance and is certain to charm the audience.

Scottish Heavyweight Events

The Scottish Heavyweights events have been a part of the Highland Games for centuries and are becoming an increasingly popular part of the modern Highland Games. The Old Scotia Heavyweights Association is a team of more than a dozen athletes from throughout the Maritimes, competing against each other in seven traditional events, providing a thrilling spectacle of skill and strength.

The events, which the kilt-clad athletes compete in, are:

• The Ancient Stone Throw, the 22lb and 16lb.
• Ancient Hammers, the 56lb and 26lb.
• Weight Toss for Distance
• the Caber Toss and the 56lb weight for height.
• The Farmer's Walk, an exhibition event, closes the competition.

Other Events of Interest

Ancient lore plays a significant role in our impression of Scottish traditions and culture. Tracing lines of descent from earliest Scottish roots is a fascinating journey, which will be guided again this year by Allen B. Robertson, Ph.D.

The Thistle Scottish Country Dancers return this year by popular request to be accompanied by the alluring strains of Celtic Fair.

Allow time for a visit to the Beer Garden from 10 AM until 8 PM, and to enjoy the "less traditional" mini-band contest right after the closing by the massed bands.

A variety of arts and crafts booths and a selection of food concessions will be on the field. Add a few program diversions for children and you have a full day!