As the familiar Scottish tune Auld Lang Syne fades with the farewell to 2012, a barrage of bagpipes is preparing to ignite the fires of ancestral inspiration from the land of kilts, clans, and castles at the 36^th Annual Central Florida Scottish Highland Games. On January 19^th & 20^th, the town of Winter Springs will again play  host to thousands of brave-hearted, plaid-covered folk who will fill Central Winds Park to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of all things Scottish!

History hovers heavy over this wintery green gathering where pipers and drummers compete, highland dancers tell their tales, and athletes lay siege throwing stones, hay, hammers, and trees. Test your own skill and strength if you can boogie with a boulder, loose arrows with a longbow, or throw an axe with accuracy. And enjoy sounds of soul soothing Celtic music on the hillside by the pond where the tribal drumming rhythms of Albannach, direct from Scotland, alternate with the fancy fiddling and footwork of the Canadian Searson Girls.

Vendors abound selling a wide variety of Scottish wares. Rows of clan tents beckon exploration of your roots. Pet a longhaired highland cow overlooking the medieval camp and see skilled shepherds guide their border collies corralling shy sheep.

The kid’s area will offer lads and lasses special challenges, such as the haggis hurl, caber tossing, and more! Fans of the Disney Pixar movie, Brave, can meet a very special guest from Scotland: 16-year-old Caitlyn Boyd, winner of the “Merida” look-a-like contest. On Saturday afternoon, Radio Disney AM 990’s Road Crew will entertain the whole family with Brave-inspired games and prizes. ‘Twill be a full weekend of family fun and lounging with legends whether you have Scottish roots or not!

Central Florida Scottish Games

• Central Wind Park─Winter Springs, FL
• Saturday, January 19^th ٠8am-9pm & Sunday, January 20^th ٠8:45am-5pm
• For admission and activity pricing, visit www.FlaScot.com.