MID-JUNE
2026
Solutions – not soundbites. We actually have a plan. Paid for by Alaskans for Hughes/Gettys | Box 1496 Palmer AK 99645
INSIDE THIS EDITION:
Mark Your Calendars for June 27–28:
INSIDE THIS EDITION:
The Highland Games Are Coming
City of Wasilla 4th Of July Parade
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The countdown is on. On the weekend of June 27–28, the vibrant sights, thunderous sounds, and rich traditions of Scotland are taking center stage. For two unforgettable days, the bagpipes will wail, heavy athletes will take the field, and clans will gather for an annual tradition that brings the best of Celtic culture to life. Organized by the Alaskan Scottish Club, the annual Alaska Scottish Highland Games stand as a premier cultural celebration. While the club works yearround to preserve and promote Scottish heritage, this flagship summer festival is
a fully immersive journey into the heart of Scotland, filled with laughter, tradition, and memories waiting to be made. Held at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer, the games offer a massive lineup of activities for families, foodies, music lovers, and sports enthusiasts alike. From the iconic to the unique, the grounds will be packed with things to see, do, and taste. Guests can watch jaw-dropping displays in the Heavy Athletics, including the famous caber toss, Scottish Strongman competition, tug-of-war, and the Kilted Mile. Music and dance will include
ASHG GAMES GUIDE INSIDE
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Highland dance, drumming showcases, and world-class bagpipe performances. Cultural traditions include the Gathering O’ The Clans, historical demonstrations, a shortbread baking competition, and the crowd-favorite Highland coo. Unique highlights include salmon tossing, the Birds of Prey exhibit, and the lively Celtic Marketplace packed with vendors and food trucks.
The energy of the Highland Games cannot be contained solely within the fairgrounds. To get the party started, the celebration spills into the local community with the official Games Kick-Off Cèilidh at the Palmer Alehouse. Starting at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 26, the Alehouse transforms into a roaring Celtic pub party featuring Harp Twins + Volfgang Twins and the Screaming Orphans. Traditional pipe bands and Highland dancers will perform throughout the night. It is the perfect opportunity to grab a local pint, enjoy the midnight sun, and let the music set the tone for the weekend ahead.
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Before the Highland athletes take the field, the weekend officially begins with an exclusive Dinner with Scotland’s Chef on Friday, June 26, at 6 p.m. Held at the Event Center by the Purple Gate at the Alaska State Fairgrounds, this premier culinary showcase is a rare opportunity to experience a menu crafted by the 2026 Honorary Chieftain and National Chef of Scotland, Gary Maclean. Guests will be treated to an unforgettable evening featuring world-class Scottish cuisine, craft cocktails, and live Celtic music. More than just a feast, this event serves as a fundraiser for the Alaska Scottish Highland Games, with all proceeds directly supporting the Alaskan Scottish Club’s mission to keep this beloved cultural celebration thriving in the Last Frontier. Tickets are available at alaskanscottish.ticketspice. com/ashgtickets.
Scotland’s own national chef, Gary Maclean, joins the festivities as the 2026 Honorary Chieftain. Festivalgoers can register to attend free live cooking demonstrations inside the Hoskins Building on both Saturday and Sunday. Demonstrations include Scotland’s Larder: Sea and Smoke, Saturday, June 27, at noon and Sunday, June 28, at 1:30 p.m.; The Burns Supper: Haggis Reinvented, Saturday, June 27, at 2:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 28, at 4 p.m.; and The Sweet Scottish Kitchen: Oats, Berries, Whisky and Butter, Saturday, June 27, at 5 p.m. and Sunday, June 28, at 11 a.m. Register at alaskanscottish.regfox. com/2026cookingdemos.
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