For more than three decades, Estes Park has been the backdrop for one of the nation's largest gatherings for those of Scottish heritage, those interested in Scottish heritage, those who like the sound of Scottish brogues, those who enjoy a Scottish malt beverage, those who enjoy the rhythmic sound of Scottish footsteps on a dance floor and more.

Held annually the weekend after Labor Day, Estes Park's Scottish Festival is the largest gathering of its kind between the Mississippi River and California, and traditionally hosts bands from Great Britain, Scotland, Canada and, of course, the United States.

One of the weekend highlights is the hour-long parade on Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park's main street. Bagpipes, drummers, dancers, clans in tartan, Dogs of the British Isles, brass military bands and precision drill teams give a preview of what can be seen on the festival field.

For 32 years now, revelers have enjoyed the annual Longs Peak Scottish/Irish Highland Festival in Estes Park. Over the years, the festival has grown to where now crowds of over 75,000 are expected to attend one of the three days of activities scheduled for Estes Park beginning Sept. 5.

Officially running Sept. 4 through 7, the 32nd edition of the annual gathering actually kicks off Thursday night with a Tattoo. Attention shifts to Stanley Park today, where for the next three days the schedule is packed with activities, including concerts and other entertainment with a Scottish/Irish flair. New this year is the Longs Peak Concert.

An annual highlight of the festival is the Saturday parade through downtown Estes Park. The parade gets underway at 9:30 a.m. on the west end of Elkhorn Ave. and heads east where it ends at the Visitors Center just past the intersection of Highways 36 and 34.

Shuttle buses will be available to transport people from the Municipal Building to the festival grounds. They will make a loop all day Saturday and Sunday from downtown to the festival field and will stop at 6 p.m. both days.

Have a great time at the festival!