Tartan Day 2009

Tartan Day was celebrated on Saturday, April 4th at Schenley High School in East Liberty. There were Crafters, Vendors, Entertainers, Celtic Cousins, the St. Andrew's Society, the Campbell Clan and Hay Clan and a nice crowd assembled to enjoy the festivities of the day.

Highland Dancers from the Thompson Studio of Highland Dance, Celtic Spirit Dancers under the direction of Kathy Horvath and the Heather & Thistle Highland Dancers under direction of Wendy Fennell all performed beautifully throughout the day. Later in the day the Balmoral Highlanders lead by Pipe Major, Joyce McIntosh entertained us with several pieces; and Jacqui Pressley's Highland Dance Company joined in with many new dancers. . It is so gratifying to see young folks involved in performing dances of their heritage and playing the pipes and drums; they all do such a marvelous job! Some are well experienced at 16 years old.

As a Celtic Cousin, Echoes of Erin was situated next to the St. David's Society, the Welsh. It was delightful to talk with Dale Richards, Jeannine Lanigan, and Elizabeth Jeffries; they informed me that the National Festival of Wales will be hosted by Pittsburgh September 3 through 6, 2009 at the Hilton Hotel. There will be concerts, songfests and many other activities for the many visitors expected into the city then. It promises to be a good time over Labor Day.

Congratulations once again to Carole Harland, Chairperson of Tartan Day in Pittsburgh, for assembling an effective committee and presenting a very nice event!