Gathering Of Local Clans & Families

Annan is gearing up for its first ever ‘Gathering of the Clans’ event, organised by Annan The History Town Group.
It promises to be a most colourful start to the day, Saturday 24th. August, with a parade led by eight clan chieftains and the Lord Lieutenant from the town centre to the showground at the Everholm sports complex by the banks of the river Annan. Families are also invited to take part walking along with Annan Pipe Band as well as the South West Scotland Pipes and Drums Academy.
The Gathering starts at 12.30pm, officially opened by chieftain of the day David Thomson of Annandale Distillery.
Visitors to the event will enjoy an afternoon’s entertainment with a Scottish flavour. Making a big noise will be Clanadonia, the Scottish tribal drum and pipe band. Also on the stage will be Highland and Scottish Country Dancing displays, local youth fiddle group Spectrum and a unique feature to round off the afternoon, the inauguration of clan chief Carruthers. Such a clan ceremony only occurs every several decades or more.
Around the showground, there is also plenty to enjoy. Learn about the clans’ history, advice on how to start your own ancestry trail, see the Teviotdale Steel Bonnets in action, step back in time with the Time Bandits and wander round over thirty arts, crafts and food stalls. Youngsters will also have the opportunity to participate in the mini highland games.
There is still time to buy ’early bird’ tickets’ at only £5 per adult (16 years and over) with accompanied children free. This represents a saving on the admission price on the day. For details, visit www.annanthehistorytown.org