The Outlandish Hillsborough Scottish Festival, held on September 26, transformed the grounds of Ayr Mount into a vibrant celebration of Scottish heritage. The event, which ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., was designed to blend local history and the cultural allure of the “Outlander” series, attracting visitors of all ages.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, including live music, traditional dance performances, and demonstrations. The sound of bagpipes filled the air as families explored the historic property, with many participants donning kilts and period costumes, alongside modern attire.
Incorporating Highland traditions, the festival featured whiskey tastings, broadsword instruction, and Highland dance demonstrations. Character actors added to the experience by posing for photos alongside replicas of Craigh na Dun standing stones and cutouts of popular “Outlander” characters.
Kelly Arnold, a program coordinator for The Alliance for Historic Hillsborough, explained that the festival draws inspiration from the “Outlander” series, where the main characters explore Hillsborough. This connection to Scottish heritage is significant, as many early settlers, including Ayr Mount’s founder William Kirkland, hailed from Scotland.
The festival builds upon a longstanding tradition of Scottish gatherings at Ayr Mount, expanding from previous ceilidhs. Visitors enjoyed performances by Celtic bands and local dance groups, while vendors showcased handcrafted goods and Scottish-themed merchandise.
Jacquie Habenicht, who operates Time-Period Clothing, highlighted the community spirit of the festival, emphasizing the importance of connections formed through shared interests in history and costumes.
Mike Joyce, a costumed participant, echoed this sentiment, noting the strong community turnout for the event. In addition to entertainment, attendees could engage in cultural education through talks and storytelling, aligning with the festival’s goal of fostering understanding and connection around Scottish heritage and local history.
Arnold emphasized the festival’s mission: creating a welcoming experience that promotes community building while celebrating Scottish culture and Hillsborough’s rich history.
