What would you suggest?

[dfmacliam]

I was pleased reading semiomnicents thread about his collecting data about the Highland Games. I recently had a conversation with my very good friend, and new forum member "Cloud" about possibly starting a Highland event in his community, and I thought I could get some good advice from the forum.

Cloud is from Mena, Arkansas, which is located in western Arkansas, in the Ouachita Mountains, a beautiful area that is a must ride area for many motorcycle enthusiasts, an area I like to call the Arkansas Highlands. Cloud was talking with the mayor of his town about getting an event that will become an annual event, that would possibly draw guests from around the country and more.

I proposed to Cloud, that he suggest a Scottish/Celtic event that would draw the locals, because of the evident Scottish and Irish heritage. Cloud is of Scottish and Welsh blood, himself.

Here is what I am seeking.... Suggestions on a grassroots beginning to establishing a Highland/Celtic event... here is the draw back... We are talking about an area, smack dab in the middle of the Bible Belt. The Churches will not support the event if there is alcohol and paganism involved (so the Ren Faire atmosphere would not really fly). What would be approving would be a family friendly, culturally fitting event/series of events, that would be an enjoyment to all guests.

I personally would like to see the readability of a Highland Games, traditional music, clan representation (a good opportunity for the clans to expand membership in an untouched part of America), demonstrations of cultural significance, and so on.

Give me some suggestions we or should I say Cloud could present, that would be readable for a first time event, that would have the opportunity to grow into a larger, and annual event.

I appreciate your suggestions, and remember this is an idea that has been untried in this region, so the first event will probably be on a shoestring budget, till the city council sees the benifit of holding this as an annual event.

Thank you on behalf of Cloud and myself.