The Kansas City Scottish Highland Games

The Kansas City Scottish Highland Games are held in June (usually the 2nd weekend) each year at the E.H. Young Park in Riverside, Missouri. I've been a couple times now, once as a spectator and once as a parent of a participant. It is held over a weekend, and in 2013 the adult admission on Friday was $5, Saturday and Sunday was $10, and kids 12 & Under were free. I'll admit that my daughter is a Scottish highland dancer, but I won't let this sway my opinion of the festival.

Parking: In the past parking was in a different location and you had to ride a shuttle to the park. When we went in 2013 that was no longer the case and we got to park on the grounds just a short walk away. Parking was free as well!

Strollers: Yes, you can use strollers, but it is a grassy park, and when not on the walking paths strollers with little wheels might be hard to maneuver. Just keep it in mind.

Vendors: There are several vendors there, mostly selling celtic and Scottish apparel, jewelry, and souvenirs. There are also a few different choices of food vendors, some selling Scottish and Scottish inspired food, while some were selling traditional "vendor food." The prices were high, but what you would expect for those types of vendors. Bring cash!

Entertainment? The Highland Games of course! The festival showcases both local and national talent in a variety of Scottish sporting events including the caber toss. My daughter participated this year (2013) as a highland dancer in the dancing competition. You can also browse several clan tents hosted by members of different clans (Go Clan Leslie!) displaying their history and other items, or take in some of the musical guests performing. If you like bagpipes you're in luck! They do have a kids area with activities for children, some free, and some not. My kids got to make their own shields sporting their "crest" and do some kid-safe versions of the grown-up highland games.

Overall, my opinion is that if you're interested in Scotland or Celtic culture, check it out. If not, the admission fee is a little steep for what is offered. As the parent of a participant, I had a good time, and I think most kids would enjoy running around the park and seeing all the people in kilts. You could spend all day there, but I was satisfied with just a couple hours (another reason I think the admission fee is too high).

Wanna make your kid a kilt to wear to the games? Here you go!