Everyone is invited to experience the culture and richness of the Scottish Highlands, in the hills of Buchanan at River Saint Joe, during their Tartan Festival! On Saturday, April 1st, celebrate with dancing, games, food, and ale, as Celtic music drifts through the grounds. Welcome new traditions and family fun during this observance of Tartan Day!
“We have numerous Celtic connections within our River Saint Joe family, employees and friends,” says Fran Tuite, Founder and Owner of River Saint Joe. “We love Scotland and enjoy the culture, food, and traditions, and would like to share them with all of you.”
From Noon to 4 p.m, the farmstead brewery destination, with indoor/outdoor restaurant and event venue, located on the beautiful certified organic Flatwater Farms, will feature unique Scottish Highland games for all ages (a Cabor Toss, potato sack race, and a Welly Toss!), a “Dressed to Kilt” contest, and live music all day from The Caledonia Kilty Pipe Band and the Tune Shakers. River Saint Joe Founding Member, Ann Tuite, lived outside of Edinburgh, Scotland, in South Queen’s Ferry for many years, and adds, “We are happy to share the traditional games of Scotland, with a twist, that adults and children can participate in at our Tartan Festival.”
The festival itself will have free admission, and Early Bird food and drink tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. The day’s eats, by Chef Tony Houser of the Mcleod Clan, created a deliciously unique Scottish menu, to add to the regular organic fare. “We’ll have Forfar Bridies, Scottish pastry with a savory filling of local organic vegetables and meats, and also Neeps & Tatties, a smash of local potatoes and farm fresh turnips,” Chef Tony says.
Brewmaster Brandon MacClaren has a rich Scottish heritage and he is happy to share that in the beer he creates. “We are launching a very special beer (for Tartan Festival),” says Brandon. “It’s a Scotch ale, aged for one year in rum and bourbon maple syrup barrels.” We are salivating already!
River Saint Joe Manager of Sustainability & Design, Josh Dickson, has roots that go back on his fathers side, including Scottish and French Huguenot elements. MaryAnne McKenna, Event Coordinator at River Saint Joe, tells us “My father was born and raised in Glasgow. I visited Scotland with my father on a couple occasions and love the rich heritage. I am so happy to be a part of this fun event and look forward to growing it every year!”
“Everyone is part of Clan Buchanan at River Saint Joe’s Tartan Festival, no actual heritage required!” says Founder and Owner, Brian Dougherty.
River Saint Joe is committed to sustainable organic practices, offering a scenic setting to enjoy food and drink made from ingredients grown on the farm, or down the road. Through connections to the land and its bounty, they aim to cultivate well-being for our community. They host many events and functions throughout the year, and you can find the calendar on their website, riversaintjoe.com. Purchase your Early Bird Food & Drink tickets for Tartan Festival now, and begin the countdown to April 1st!
