ScotsFest, Independence County’s largest annual festival, returns to the Lyon College campus this weekend, Oct. 17-19, with more new activities and attractions than ever before. The 45th Arkansas Scottish Festival and Lyon College Homecoming will blend cherished traditions—bagpipes, Highland games, and clan gatherings—with exciting new experiences for both longtime attendees and first-time visitors.

What’s New in 2025
This year’s ScotsFest weekend features several exciting additions:

Homecoming Football Game at Bad Boy Mowers Stadium –For the first time ever, the Scots will play their homecoming football game on campus. Lyon faces Centenary College on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 3:30 p.m. in Bad Boy Mowers Stadium. Come early for the “Mad for Plaid” tailgate fun at Scots Tailgate Field, sponsored by the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Robert Lewis Campbell Scottish Clan Village –Visit more than 20 clans and enjoy adedicated stagefeaturing Scottish dancers sponsored by LaCroix Precision Optics, Celtic singer/songwriter Misty Posey, and bagpipe educator Patrick Regan.

Tartan-Weaving Demonstration –Lyon Assistant Professor of Art Cody Norton will demonstrate traditional weaving techniques and create a special commemorative Lyon College tartan in Studio 104 of the historic Alphin Building.

Family Petting Zoo –A new hands-on experience for students and families, with friendly goats, sheep, pigs, and more.

Weekend Highlights
Festivities kick off Friday with open Lyon College classes, beginning at 8 a.m., food vendors, arts and crafts, a Scottish Heritage Program director's reception, and a free rocket-building workshop with Dr. Dave Thomas, professor of biology. The evening concludes with the Alumni Awards Celebration and an all-alumni social at Polk & Paddle in downtown Batesville.

Saturday features signature ScotsFest favorites—Highland heavy athletics, beginning at 9 a.m., living history demonstrations, Scottish and Irish dancers, sheepdog demonstrations, pipe band performances, and the opening ceremony at noon. The day also includes a British car show, a dog show, and plenty of homecoming spirit with a pep rally at 12:30 p.m. immediately following the Kilties performance in Couch Garden, soccer games at Huser Field, and homecoming court introductions during the football game halftime. The Cèilidh Feast on Saturday night will serve as the grand finale of the day’s festivities.

Entertainment Lineup
Headlining the entertainment zone are Mudmen, Canadian Celtic rockers known for their high-energy shows. The Central High School Kiltie Drum and Bugle Corps from Springfield, Missouri—celebrating its 100th anniversary—will perform during Saturday’s opening ceremony alongside dozens of pipe bands from across the country.

“This year, we’re welcoming several fine pipe bands from around the nation,” said Jimmy Bell, director of the Scottish Heritage Program. “The opening ceremonies will feature favorites like ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘Scotland the Brave.’ ScotsFest brings the spirit of Scottish culture alive here in Batesville.”

Food and Closing Events
Guests can enjoy traditional Scottish fare including savory meat pies, pastries, and other festival favorites. The weekend concludes Sunday with more ScotsFest fun, the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service, and the Club 50 luncheon, rounding out a weekend of music, culture, and community.

“This year’s festival is shaping up to be one of our best yet,” said Kenton Adler, director of development for Scottish Heritage. “We’ll have all the traditions folks love, plus a host of new experiences. It’s a celebration for the whole community.”

General admission is free, though some activities—such as the alumni banquet, cèilidh feast, petting zoo, and entertainment tent—require tickets. Proceeds support the Scottish Heritage Program and scholarships for Lyon College students.

For a full schedule, visitarscottishfest.com.