11:00 am Robert MacDonald. Scotland, Bagpipes & History 
The highland bagpipe is universally considered to be the national instrument of Scotland and the Scottish people. But why is that so? Historian Robert MacDonald traces the bagpipes' surprising journey from its neolithic pastoral origins to the present day. It's a presentation that is equal part informative, entertaining and controversial.
12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Break for opening ceremonies
The traditional "opening ceremonies" gun.
12:30 pm Gaelic Soc. of Vancouver: Language of the Gael
Dating back centuries, Gaelic is the founding language of Scotland that is thought to originate from Ireland. It spread its way across the country as the principle language of the medieval Kingdom of Alba, extending from the Borders to Aberdeenshire, the Highlands and Islands. The language is a living part of Scottish culture, surviving in the northwestern parts of Scotland and in immigrant communities like northeastern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton. Pick up a few handy phrases you can use in any setting, join us for a song or two, and find out about our upcoming Gaelic language lessons in the fall. Tha failte oirbh uileadh (All are welcome)
1:00 - Lew Ross: The Scots Contributions to Democracy:
Join former heavy event athlete and historian Lew Ross for a fascinating and informative discussion of the role played by the global Scottish diaspora in the shaping of nations. Lew's talk will focus on the impact Scottish principles of modern democracy impacted Australia, India, Canada and the United States, where the 1776 Declaration of Independence was greatly influenced by the 1340 Scottish Declaration of Arbroath. It's always a full house when Lew speaks so get there early.
1:45 pm Fiddling Workshop
Fiddling enthusiasts Caitlan Read and John Lyon lead this workshop exploring the violin (a.k.a. fiddle) and Scottish culture. The fiddle has been an important instrument in traditional Scottish music since the 18th century. Cailtan and John’s workshop introduces (or re-acquaints) you to the sounds of Scottish fiddle music and its related traditions in Scotland, Nova Scotia, Manx, Breton and Ireland. You’ll hear strathspey’s, reels, marches and jigs that will set your toes tapping.
2:30pm - Robert MacDonald, Seaforth Highlander's Uniform 1909-2019
Join regimental historian, curator and Keeper of the Seaforth Collection Robert MacDonald as he delves into the changing uniform of one of Canada's oldest and most decorated Scottish regiments: the Vancouver-based Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. Rob's talk will focus on the uniform changes the uniform has undergone over the history of the regiment. A fascinating look into a key part of the Seaforth Highlanders working uniform and image.
3:15 pm -Barry Shears: Bagpiping - East vs West
Glace Bay, Cape Breton piper Barry Shears has been playing the Great Highland Bagpipes for more than 50-years. This is his first visit to the BC Highland Games following the publication of his sixth book on bagpipe music and history. Barry is an acknowledged expert on the history of traditional piping in Nova Scotia and its intrinsic connection to the Gaelic language, music and culture of the Highland Scots who settled the Cape Breton and northeastern parts of the province in the 19th century. He has performed at festivals and concerts throughout North America and Europe.
4:15 pm -Douglas Brodie: The Metis and the Scots in Canada
Brodie Douglas is a citizen of the Metis Nation. He was born in Merritt, BC, and identifies as a proud Scot-halfbreed. His Metis family names include Ross, Moar, McKay and McDougall. Brodie is a historical researcher with Metis National BC and speaks on Metis history and identification throughout the province. He has published work on Metis history, symbolism and BC cattle ranching.
I didn’t see the Clan tents mentioned on the website, but I know they are there.
What are the charges for an information only clan tent at the games?
Hi Joan. Can you contact Dave Trotter? He is the chair of vendors, etc. at the Games. He can be reached at: <>
Hi,
I was just wondering how late this event tends to run?
I travel by bus and I would have to see how the travel works out as to if it would be possible for me to come enjoy the night.
Thank you,
Meredith
Hi Meredith. We wrap up the Saturday games with a ceilidh in the beer garden, with all the pipers, drummers, dancers, organizers and volunteers. This will likely last until 8pm’ish.