BATESVILLE, Ark. — The 46th Arkansas Scottish Festival, known as ScotsFest, will return to Lyon College from October 23-25, 2026, promising a weekend rich with tradition, music, athletics, and new family-friendly experiences. This year’s festival will also coincide with the college’s annual homecoming celebration.
Presented by Lyon College and Experience Independence, the event will highlight the college’s Scottish heritage with activities for all ages. While general admission is free, some alumni and special events require registration or tickets.
“ScotsFest is one of our favorite traditions because it brings together our students, alumni, neighbors, and visitors to celebrate the unique Scottish heritage that defines Lyon College,” said Jimmy Bell, director of the Scottish Heritage Program at Lyon College. “Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning for another year, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
This year, ScotsFest will include two new events. On Saturday, October 24, at 10 a.m., children can attend the Lil’ Highlanders Tea Party, where Dr. Melissa Taverner, president of Lyon College and prime minister of the Arkansas Scottish Festival, will host tea and storytelling in royal-themed attire. On Sunday, October 25, the inaugural ScotsFest Fishing Derby will begin at 1 p.m. at Bryan Lake, offering families a chance to enjoy the outdoors together.
The festival kicks off on Friday, October 23, with a soft opening that includes vendors, Scottish clan organizations, and tartan-weaving demonstrations. Cody Norton, a Lyon College art faculty member, will debut a new Lyon College dress tartan design during this showcase. Friday evening will also feature the annual Lyon College Alumni Awards Celebration and an Alumni and Friends Social in downtown Batesville.
Saturday’s lineup offers a vibrant mix of activities including traditional Highland athletics, pipe and drum performances, Highland dancing, sheepdog demonstrations, McNaughton’s Raiders living history events, a British car show, and Celtic music. A pet-focused dog show hosted by the Lyon College School of Veterinary Medicine, a petting zoo, and children’s rocket-building workshops add to the family-focused programming.
The evening Feast and Ceilidh on Saturday will feature a traditional Scottish dinner, live Celtic music, and Highland dancing, bringing together festivalgoers for an evening of cultural celebration.
On Sunday, October 25, activities will continue with tea and scones, the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service, Highland dancing showcases, and a Club 50 Celebration for alumni marking 50 or more years since graduation. Other highlights include an alumni baseball game and the Scots’ homecoming football game against Texas Lutheran University at Bad Boy Mowers Stadium.
ScotsFest attracts visitors from across Arkansas and beyond to celebrate Scottish traditions and Lyon College’s community spirit. Most events are free and open to the public, but select activities like the Feast and Ceilidh require tickets. For a full schedule and ticket details, visit arscottishfest.com.