Harpers Ferry to be home to new Highland Games

Competitors in the first annual Highland Games, held at The Barn in Harpers Ferry, prepare for axe throwing. Courtesy photo
HARPERS FERRY — The Barn in Harpers Ferry hosted what was hoped to be the first of an annual Highland Games event last Saturday.
The event, held to raise funds this year for Friendship Fire Company, had competitors — many in kilts — taking part in games, including axe and keg throwing and fighting sticks. Participants also took part in a caber toss, where they were required to vertically flip a large, tapered pole.
Traditional Highland Games are events held in the spring and summer in Scotland and other countries as a way to celebrate Scottish and Celtic culture. The local rendition of the Highland Games focused more on the physical competitions. Traditionally, competitions in piping and drumming, as well as dancing, are included in the games. Often, the traditional games include entertainment and exhibits related to aspects of Scottish culture.
“We feel grateful to be included in the inaugural Highland Games,” said Chris Higdon, president of Friendship Fire Company. “We give special thanks to Chad and Carrie Gauthier, owners of the Barn, for being neighborly and including us in the games.
“We will make good use of the funds and will put them directly back into the community as we do with all donations we receive,” Higdon said.
The Gauthiers hope to make the Highland Games an annual fundraising event for local charities and organizations that need financial support.
Scores of visitors flooded the area to attend the games and cheer on their favorite kilt-dressed competitor.
“It was a perfect day with great weather and good bluegrass music, topped off with men in kilts showing their skills,” said attendee Ranale Jones.
“The Barn put on a family-friendly event with lots of people enjoying the music, the refreshments and the games,” Jones continued. “Two bald eagles even made an appearance.”