'It was exactly what we hoped for': 69th Festival of the Tartans a huge success

Advertisement 1 This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Breadcrumb Trail Links HomeAtlantic CanadaNova ScotiaNew Glasgow 'It was exactly what we hoped for': 69th Festival of the Tartans a huge success Festival took place Aug. 13-16 at the Scott W. Weeks Sports Complex in New Glasgow Author of the article: By Matthew Bambrick Published Aug 26, 2026 Last updated 1 hour ago 3 minute read Kyle Stackhouse, of Alma, competed in the Scottish Heavy Weight Competitions at the Festival of the Tartans on Aug. 15. PHOTO BY MATTHEW BAMBRICK /New Glasgow News Article content NEW GLASGOW – Scottish culture was on full display in New Glasgow Aug. 13-16. Article content Festival of the Tartans, a four-day event hosted at the Scott W. Weeks Sport Complex, celebrated traditional Scottish culture and heritage with Highland Dance competitions, Scottish Heavy Weight contests, massed pipe bands, and Celtic music. Article content Article content “This is a great opportunity to learn a little Gaelic and strengthen our genealogical roots,” said Greg Dickson, chairman of the festival committee. Article content Article content “I’m really proud of the team and everybody who volunteered to help make this all possible. We have solved problems that we didn’t even know we had, and I’m very happy to be their leader. I only just became involved last year, and we have people here who have experienced much more of the nearly 70 years of history this festival has.” Article content Article content History Article content The festival began in the late 1950s and developed into a beloved event in New Glasgow as a celebration of Scottish traditions. Article content After being cancelled by the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival made its grand return in 2025 as a part of the town’s 150th anniversary celebrations. This year was the 69th festival. Article content “It is wonderful to have the festival back and growing,” said Mayor Nancy Dicks, who thanked all involved for making the festival possible. Article content “From the tartan tea, to the opening ceremonies and crowning, to the games day to the closing church service and more, it was truly an amazing celebration of our Scottish heritage. There were so many special moments to remember. The festival created a sense of pride and much joy through music, performances, competition, and recognition of our history.” Article content Article content Dancer Arabella Robinson, centre, performed at the…