Technically it is, but archaeologists have known for some time that European Bronze Age instruments produced the same sound. Pipes, drums, and guitars carried the day…along with the didgeridoo.

Fortunately some British Isles ethnic foods were available, and also typical American fare like burgers and hot dogs and ice cream cones, so we did not have to go hungry or thirsty.Ī number of Celtic musical groups were present, ranging from the raucous (Tempest) to the traditional (The Brown Sisters). Many – maybe most – of the vendors were Mexicans selling tacos and burritos and the like. More objectionable was a seller of Scottish traditional clothing who, despite wearing a kilt, was obviously some variety of Asian – and we pointedly avoided him. They were generally not pretending to be Scots, nor were they offensive they were people just out enjoying a weekend (and supporting our culture in the process). No surprise there the Bay Area has a high non-White population. Many of the of the attendees were non-Whites. Sooner or later, however, at least some of them will find their way home to their ancestral faith. I was glad to see that unfortunately, many of the people wearing them likely had no connection to Thor or to the Nordic gods in general. Thor’s hammers were for sale, and along with other Norse items, were quite popular. All the major clans were in attendance, as well, and were accepting memberships from those qualified. Also present were genealogical resources – if you want to find out more about your family history, this was the place. Clothing (from kilts to tee shirts), weapons, food, books, jewelry, and artwork were available in abundance. We started with the vending area, where you can buy just about anything Scottish, Irish, or English. We arrived in the early afternoon on day one. These events are powerful, both spiritually and culturally – and this inner power is essential for the survival and destiny of our people. Since then, I have attended many such gatherings and I have never been disappointed.įor the last two days, Sheila and I have been at the “156 th Scottish Highland Gathering and Games” in the town of Pleasanton, on the edge of the San Francisco Bay Area. On that emotional day in central California, I had “come home.”

My eyes immediately filled with tears of joy. As far as the eye could see, men and women of European blood were celebrating our culture and, by implication, honoring our ancestors.

I recall walking through the gate and immediately being surrounded by lads in kilts, ladies in bodices, and edged weapons. I’ll never forget my first five minutes at a Scottish cultural event, many years ago.

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