Contributed by Marilyn McPhie, as told by storyteller Liz Weir What would you do if you suddenly received a gift of gold from a stranger? Many years ago, there was an old couple that lived in a small cottage in the glens. Things were not going well for them. They had one cow which had …
The Orkney Islands is a group of more than 70 islands, however of the 70 plus islands there are only 20 of the islands that are inhabited in Scotland. You might have heard of the Orkney Islands because of ancient classic literature, there are remains of prehistoric occupation scattered across the islands. Skara Brae is …
Halloween in Scotland by Ben Johnson Robert Burns, the famous Scottish poet, wrote about the myths, legends and traditions associated with Halloween in Scotland in his poem ‘Halloween’, written in 1785. Halloween in Scotland is all about the supernatural, witches, spirits and fire. The origins of Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic …
Multi-platinum international music sensation, CELTIC WOMAN returns with their brand new live CD and DVD: ‘Homecoming – Live From Ireland’. Recorded live in Dublin, Ireland, in September 2017, Homecoming features singers Susan McFadden, Mairéad Carlin, Éabha McMahon and the group‘s new violinist, Tara McNeill. Since its debut, global musical sensation Celtic Woman’s concerts continue to …
Once there was a young farmer who lived near the Scottish border. He lived alone, for his parents had died long before, and he had no siblings. But he had the farm, and a fine small farm it was. He worked only part of the land, for he liked to work for himself and hired …
Dear San Diego Scottish Highland Games, Thank you so much for your generous donation toward my travel expenses to perform in the 2017 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland. It was an extraordinary experience and you helped make that dream come true! The band I was a member of in the Tattoo was the Royal …
by Todd Wilkinson While the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan service celebrates Scotland and Scottish heritage, it is a truly a Scottish-American custom. If one searches the Internet for information, stories abound of the Kirkin’s roots being in days of the Act of Proscription, when the wearing of the kilt was banned in the Highlands – …
Upon that night, when fairies light On Cassilis Downans dance, Or over the lays, in splendid blaze, On sprightly horses prance; Or for Colean the route is taken, Beneath the moon’s pale beams; There, up the cove, to stray and rove, Among the rocks and streams To sport that night. Among the bonny winding banks, …
“Halloween” by Robert Burns (English Translation) Read More »
Dogs figure prominently in tales from Scotland. There are the sheepdogs (who are so entertaining at the San Diego Highland Games). There are the ghost dogs which warn people of danger. There are faithful dogs who bring joy to their families. But surely no dog is better known in Scottish lore than Greyfriars Bobby. John …
Bruce’s Cave Lace up your walking boots and pack a lunch for a visit to Robert the Bruce’s cave, which is up a steep path above Kirtle Water, near Kirkpatrick Flemming. Legend says that Robert the Bruce hid from the English armies within these gloomy walls, and watched a spider repeatedly attempting to spin a …