The Cèilidh (kay-lee) was the center of social life of the old Highland community. The word translates from the Gaelic to mean “visitor” or “social gathering.” In some parts of the Hebrides, the traditional Cèilidh was still being held until the early 1900s. Men and lads, sometimes the ladies, would gather at a favored cottage, usually that of one of the more well-to-do residents or the local landlord. There might be someone with a fiddle or pipes who would give a tune or two, some singing and dancing, and the telling of stories and tall tales.

Modern events billed as cèilidhs are little more than concerts with a Scottish flavor, but we believe the old idea of sharing and group participation is best. Our cèilidhs blend the best of the old and the new with piping, singing, dancing, and more.

• Friday evening we have 2 Ceilidhs! 1st opportunity… Join in and learn Scottish Country Dancing in the indoor pub area following the Flaming Saltire. 2nd opportunity… Katie Jane Band in the over 21 outdoor Rampant Lion Pub!
• Saturday evening, again we have 2 Ceilidhs! 1st opportunity… Enjoy performances by the Featured Performers on the south Featured Performer stage, then listen and help judge the winner of the “Caber” followed by more Scottish Country Dancing, plus enjoy the company of kith and kin… 2nd opportunity… Celtic Spoons perform in the over 21 outdoor Rampant Lion Pub!

2024 Saturday Evening Ceilidh Schedule with our Featured Performers

Participants in the Saturday evening Cèilidh compete for the Caber, a perpetual trophy donated by the Richard Roberts family, which the audience awards to the best Scottish entertainment of the evening.

So, leave your worries at the door, tap your toes to the music, laugh a lot, and, above all, have a good time and make some new Scottish friends!