An open invitation:

If you will be in the Pacific Northwest in July, and particularly in Northeastern Oregon on July 13, come on out to Athena, where the 2024 Athena Caledonian Games is celebrating 125 years since the first Caledonian Picnic and Games in 1899. Clan tents, sheepdogs, entertainment and vendors will be found in the Athena City Park under giant shade trees. The SAAA-sanctioned athletic competitions will be held across the street in the school's practice field. We never charge an entrance fee, so bring the entire clan!

This family-friendly day begins at 9:00 AM with a parade on Main Street followed by a regional vehicle show in the afternoon. A 10:00 AM opening ceremony begins the festivities in the park. Athletic events begin around noon. Park events conclude with a Candle Lighting Ceremony in the park rose garden at 4:30, after which vendors close up shop at 5:00 PM.

In July Athena (population about 1,200) is surrounded by golden wheat fields, and for the past several years the weather has been exceptional -- neither extremely hot nor cold and rainy. Pipers, Highland dancers and pipe bands may be seen at various times and places throughout the festival site. Headline entertainment will be provided by "Skweeze the Weezle," a regionally-known Celtic band from southern Washington state. More information about our festival is available at our new, still-under-construction website: https://kjdurfee.wixsite.com/athenascottishgames.

A large number of Scottish immigrants settled in the Athena area in the 1880s, and many of their descendants still reside in the area. We are proud of our historical connection to the land of kilts, tartans, lochs, and heather. Questions? Email athenacaledoniangames@gmail.com.