Each year, the first weekend of October is reserved for a festival unlike any other in Middle Tennessee?The Tennessee Highland Games. Here you can immerse yourself in Scottish history, folklore and culture.

Though the festival was held for eight years at MTSU, this is the third time the Heart of Tennessee Scottish Celebration takes over the Renaissance Festival grounds in Triune.

Located about halfway between Murfreesboro and Franklin, the 11th annual Games will feature bagpipe and drum competitions, Scottish harp music and, of course, traditional food and drink.
The Highland dance competition is a highlight of the weekend, bringing contestants from all across the United States as well as Canada and Great Britain.
Entertainment will be provided by musicians Ed Miller, Colin Grant Adams and Scottish rock group Albannach.
Delve into history with the educational seminars that feature Gaelic language lessons, spinning and weaving, an interesting truth or fiction take on Mel Gibson’s Braveheart and learn of the Scottish influence on Southern music, literature and the settlement of this area of the country.
There will be a marketplace full of books, pottery, leatherworks and weaponry. With over 60 family clans represented, you can also expect plenty of tartans and genealogical information available.
The Highland Games are fun for the whole family, no matter the age or heritage. Where else can one find men in kilts and axe-throwing, even a haggis hurl?
Just be sure to bring your own whiskey and leave the pets at home!

For more information, visit hotsc.com.