Date: June 19-20, 2009
Cost: $10 for Friday (free for kids under 12), $15 for Saturday (free for kids under 12); $70 Patron pass (all prices are $2 higher at gate)
Organizer: Illinois Saint Andrew Society
What to expect: All the traditions of Scotland in one compact package: bagpipes, rugby, Scotch, Haggis, dancing and more.
Why to go: Event attendee competitions include a Haggis Hurling Contest (for women only) and a Knobbly Knees Kilt Contest (for men only). And don't forget about the Ceilidh (pronounced Kay-Lee), a traditional celebration of Celtic music and dance.
Additional info: Traditional "games" in the Scottish highlands were athletic contests like throwing weights for distance. This festival includes that (all day Saturday at the Athletics Field) and much more, including traditional music, scotch seminars and a shortbread contest. Patron passes include adult admission, exclusive access to the Whiskey Tasting Tent with seating and premiere views of Games' venues, food and beverages, and a free parking voucher. Parking costs $5 otherwise.
Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein