the 2026 festival line up
Music
the rogues
Houston's Often Imitated but Never Duplicated AWARD WINNING Celtic Band. Founded in Houston in 1994, The Rogues created a new genre of Celtic music with exceptionally well-played pipes and driving percussion and have become award-winning international artists. From Scottish Highland games to performing with a symphony orchestra, The Rogues deliver a commanding performance.
CHAMBLESS, MUSE AND VOGTS
Performing the music of Scotland, Ireland and early America from simple house concerts to Scottish and Irish Festivals throughout the US.This Alabama‑based quartet blends deep roots in Celtic, folk, and traditional music with the energy of seasoned performers from diverse musical backgrounds. Together, they create a rich, dynamic sound shaped by vocals, flute and whistles, guitar and bouzouki.
DEAD RECKONING STRING BAND
This lively bluegrass quartet from Monroe, Louisiana brings an irresistible blend of guitar, dobro, banjo, doghouse bass, and fiddle to the stage. Their tight harmonies and delightful renditions of old favorites invite you to stomp your feet and clap along to the beat, creating a warm, joyful atmosphere that feels like classic bluegrass at its best.
HARPIST
MIRIAM BENNETT
red River Pipes & Drums
LogJam drum troupe
Red River Pipes and Drums is a Shreveport‑based band led by Pipe Major James Parker, performing throughout the Ark‑La‑Tex at parades, festivals , Highland Games, and other events. The band also provides solo and small‑ensemble piping for more intimate events, they have performed at the event every year since its beginnings in the early 2000s,
Dancers
Miriam Bennett is a gifted 14‑year‑old harpist from Monroe, Louisiana, whose musical talents span the piano, violin, and harp. She first fell in love with the harp at just five years old during a family trip to Ireland, a moment that sparked a passion she has pursued ever since. Miriam began formal harp lessons in 2020 and now performs for weddings, special events, and community gatherings, sharing her graceful sound with audiences across the region.
Logjam Drumming Troupe brings a vibrant pulse to the festival grounds with their dynamic, high‑energy percussion. they provide the driving heartbeat behind The Gems, enhancing each performance with texture, power, and flair. Their blend of traditional and contemporary drumming styles creates an atmosphere that feels both earthy and electric, drawing audiences into the movement and magic of the moment.
Jackson Irish Dancers
Since 1998, Jackson Irish Dancers have brought Irish dance events to Mississippi and beyond. , from the up-on-your toes Riverdance-style solo dance to the casual fun of céilí dancing, sets and sean-nós (old-style) dance., they are sure to please audiences of all ages!
Thistle Dancers & Pipers
This is a group of talented young people who perform the traditional Highland dances and music of Scotland. The Thistle Dancers and Pipers are located in Natchitoches, LA and will make their 2nd appearance at Scottish Tartan Festival in 2023!
Gems Dance Company
This merry band of belly dancers have been entertaining the Ark-La-Tex since 2009. Their dance styles include American and Egyptian Cabaret, Folkloric belly dance, Spanish Fusion, Steampunk, and SCA inspired Medieval dance. They are joined onstage by Logjam who drum for some dance numbers as well as a guest piper!
march of
the clans
Kirking of the Tartans
Dog Show
Held at noon, led by the honored clan. The clans parade around the festival grounds and end at the stage where a kirking of the tartans is held.
This ceremony is held at noon following the Grand March of Clans. The brief ceremony will be led by Scottish Society Chaplain, Jeffrey Foster.
Two Separate Shows
A show for Scottish Breeds
A show for Non-Scottish Breeds First show is at 11:00 AM Register on site at the time of event.
Red River Smiths
See History come alive as the red river smiths demonstrate blacksmithing skills of yesteryear.
Storyteller
Jeff D. Hurely
Medieval
Camp
A festival veteran, Jeff will regale you with tales of Celtic adventure, humor, and excitement! Having spent most of his life on stage performing, he is an expert in captivating an audience. Be sure not to miss a single thrilling tale!
The Society for Creative Anachronism, Shire of Ardanroe chapter will join us for Medieval Combat demonstrations as well as setting up a camp with demonstrations of skills and arts common to the medieval times.
Spinning
Flintknapping
broadsword demos
observe the pioneer method of spinning thread from wool with a spinning wheel.
a group of hobbyists known as the “Chip-lot-a’s” demonstrate Flintknapping. They make arrowheads and other items out of rock.
This is an event sponsored by Shreveport HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts). This will occur at various times throughout the day.