North Alabama Scottish Festival Selects Decatur as Its New Home

Emma Martin • February 27, 2026

The North Alabama Scottish Festival Finds Its New Home in Decatur

Get ready for kilts, bagpipes, and a brand-new tradition in Decatur. On March 14–15, 2026, the North Alabama Scottish Festival & Highland Games will officially rehome to Point Mallard Park, bringing the sights, sounds, and spirit of Scotland to North Alabama for a weekend packed with heritage and community celebration.


This festival is more than an athletic event — it’s a living tribute to centuries-old Scottish traditions. From clan representatives sharing family histories to the unmistakable sound of pipe bands echoing across the park, the weekend will immerse visitors in a vibrant celebration of culture. The Highland Games themselves are the heartbeat of the festival, showcasing incredible feats of strength like the hammer throw, stone putting, sheaf toss, and the iconic caber toss. Watching an athlete lift and flip a towering wooden caber end-over-end is an unforgettable sight, requiring not just power but balance, precision, and skill.

The 2026 festival also ushers in exciting milestones, including its designation as the new home of the prestigious United States Eastern Women’s Highland Games Championship. In addition, children will have the opportunity to participate in their own age-appropriate games, creating an experience that honors tradition while welcoming the next generation.



Beyond the competitions, the festival offers rich cultural experiences through music, dance, and storytelling. Pipe bands and folk musicians will perform throughout the weekend, Highland dancers will showcase their artistry, and guests will have the opportunity to connect with Scottish heritage in meaningful and interactive ways.


What makes this event especially unique is its setting in Decatur. The North Alabama Scottish Festival blends global tradition with Southern hospitality, creating an atmosphere that feels both authentic and warmly local. Visitors from across the region — and beyond — will gather to celebrate, strengthening community ties while elevating Decatur’s growing reputation as a destination for dynamic events.


If you’re looking for a weekend filled with energy, tradition, music, and family-friendly fun, this is your invitation. Mark your calendar for March 14–15, 2026, and join us at Point Mallard Park as we welcome this beloved cultural tradition to its new home in Decatur. Wear your tartan, bring your friends, and experience the magic of Scotland right here in the heart of Alabama. Slàinte!

By Brylie Singleton July 9, 2026
A rainy day doesn’t mean the fun has to stop, here’s 10 ways to make the most of a rainy day in Decatur!
By Brylie Singleton June 26, 2026
From pickleball tournaments to firework spectaculars, here’s how we are celebrating America’s 250 th birthday in Decatur & Morgan County!
By Brylie Singleton June 19, 2026
With Summer in full swing, here are some ways to get out & explore nature in Decatur this Summer.
By Emma Martin June 10, 2026
Rock the South Plans May Have Changed, But Decatur Is Still Ready to Welcome You!
By Emma Martin June 3, 2026
When the Alabama summer heat arrives, there's no better place to cool off than Point Mallard Water Park in Decatur. As one of North Alabama's most beloved family attractions, Point Mallard has been helping visitors make summer memories for generations. Whether you're planning a family vacation, weekend getaway, or just a day of fun in the sun, here's everything you need to know before visiting Point Mallard Water Park. Point Mallard is home to a piece of water park history. The park's iconic wave pool was the first of its kind in the United States and remains a favorite attraction for visitors of all ages. Grab a float, catch some waves, or simply relax as the pool transforms into an ocean-like experience right in the heart of Decatur. 
By Emma Martin May 13, 2026
In Decatur, groups are invited to experience the destination — not just see it.
Things to Do in Decatur, Alabama
By Emma Martin March 27, 2026
If you’re looking for a summer packed with live music, festivals, family fun, and unforgettable nights, Downtown Decatur is the place to be.
By Emma Martin March 20, 2026
Here our some of our FAVORITE meals to try in Morgan County! Let us know what you think!
By Emma Martin March 10, 2026
This April, discover the stories that shaped Decatur, Alabama during our Free Historic April Walking Tours , held every Saturday as part of a statewide tourism initiative celebrating Alabama’s history. Each week offers a different themed tour through downtown, giving visitors and locals alike the chance to explore the city’s rich heritage one step at a time. Beginning at 10 a.m. each Saturday , these guided tours stroll along historic 2nd Avenue, Bank Street, Historic homes and throughout downtown Decatur , highlighting everything from early settlement and Victorian architecture to fascinating local legends and notable landmarks. Led by passionate local historians and storytellers, each tour brings Decatur’s past to life in a fun and engaging way. Tour Details 📅 Every Saturday in April ⏰ 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 💲 Free and open to the public 👟 Family-friendly, easy walking routes, and ADA accessible 🐕 Dog-Friendly, Must be leashed April 4 – Historic Downtown Decatur Tour Kick off the series on April 4 with a guided walk through the historic streets of downtown Decatur led by local historian Suzanne Langdon . This tour explores the city’s early development such as the historic Union Train Depot and the people and places that helped shape Decatur into the vibrant community it is today. As you walk along Bank Street and 2nd Avenue, Suzanne will share fascinating stories and historical insights at some of downtown’s most recognizable landmarks. This tour will begin at the Historic Union Train Depot. April 11 – Old Town Historic District Tour On April 11 , take a meaningful walk through Decatur’s Historic Old Town District , the city’s original settlement dating back to the 1820s when it was known as Rhodes Ferry Landing . Once a vital river and rail hub, the area later became a thriving African American community following the Civil War. Led by Peggy Towns , this tour explores Old Town’s deep cultural roots and its significance in civil rights history. Guests will hear stories about early Black-owned businesses, historic churches, and community leaders, including the city’s first Black Alderman. The tour will also include a look at the CEOTA Civil Rights Museum , currently undergoing renovations, and other important landmarks in the district. The Old Town tour begins at the Decatur Scottsboro Boys Museum on Sycamore Street. April 18 – Downtown Crime & Mystery Tour History takes a darker turn on April 18 during the Downtown Crime Tour led by local historian and storyteller John Allison . This thrilling walk through Decatur’s past explores infamous crimes, unsolved mysteries, Prohibition-era misdeeds, and dramatic courtroom showdowns that once made headlines. Guests will stroll past historic buildings and hidden alleyways while hearing captivating tales of scandal and intrigue from Decatur’s past. With engaging storytelling and deep local insight, this tour offers a fascinating look at the city’s more mysterious side—perfect for true crime enthusiasts and curious history buffs alike. The Crime Tour begins at the Morgan County Archives. April 25 – Historic Homes of Old Decatur Tour To wrap up the month, join us on April 25 for a walk through the beautiful Old Decatur Historic District , one of Alabama’s most treasured neighborhoods. Known for its beautifully preserved Victorian and early 20th-century homes , this district offers a glimpse into Decatur’s architectural elegance and the families who built the community. As you wander shaded streets lined with historic homes, you’ll hear stories of craftsmanship, community traditions, and the generations who once called these houses home. This tour will begin at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center.
By Emma Martin February 13, 2026
If you’re looking for fresh ways to enjoy the River City this year, you’re in luck! Decatur is bringing a trio of huge events that promise everything from highland thrills to championship-level athletics and the ultimate summer party. Here’s a look at three can’t-miss happenings in 2026:
More Posts