Highland games.

• Author: Anderson, Tasha
• Position: ENTERTAINMENT

Many Alaskans are familiar with the Highland Games, a product of the Alaskan Scottish Club, which was established to promote Scottish culture, heritage, and teachings. As Chris Anderson, Alaska Scottish Highland Games Chair, says, "If you have never been to the games, this is an event you don't want to miss."

This is the first year that the games will be held at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer, rather than in Eagle River as they have been previously, allowing the games to expand their vendors, activities, and parking accommodations. Parking in general is free, but the Blood Bank of Alaska will be selling premium parking to raise funds for their new building, Anderson says.

Of course, parking is just the beginning. The Games are a festival atmosphere with Scottish flare and feature heavy athletics, piping, dancing, a flyball dog competition, food, and drink. "If you love the bagpipes, this is a great time to come out and hear them," Anderson says.

Six pro Scottish athletes will be at the Games this year competing in the heavy events, and the weekend...