A Day Dedicated to Highlander Heritage

Radford University welcomed a proud tradition back to campus on October 12 when the Radford Highlanders Festival returned after five years in Bisset Park. Moffett and Heth lawns provided a perfect setting for popular festival features — Highland cattle, sheepherding, clan exhibits, rugby, arts and crafts and various vendors — as well as the headline attractions: music and the Highlander Games.

“It’s a really cool event! And, it’s right here on campus,” said Daniel Meany, a sophomore from Christiansburg, Virginia. “There’s a lot to see here. There are so many booths here, and everything is so unique.”

The Celtic soundtrack of the day was provided by the Virginia Highlands, Radford University Highlanders and Appalachian Highlanders Pipes and Drums. Featured on the Highlander stage were the acclaimed Washington, D.C. folk-rock band Scythian and the Michigan-based Crossbow.

Crowds on the perfect fall day were entranced by the kilt-clad competitors in the Tom Raisbeck Memorial Games, featuring games of ancient origin that included the caber toss, sheaf toss, stone (similar to shot put) and waiver bar.

The Radford Highlanders Festival is an ongoing partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford. People from within the University and within the community work diligently to organize the annual event. Their Efforts yield unique experiences and special memories for families, students and community members.