Harpenden Highland Gathering

[Paco500]

Are any of my fellow Southern England Xmarksers (awkward phrasing, I know) planning on attending the Harpenden Highland Gathering on Sunday the 12th? I was there 15 years ago, which was the one and only time I had the pleasure and privilege of meeting the man and legend Hamish in person. I’ll be there again this year, and would love to meet up IRL with any of you that can be there as well.

If you plan on being there, PM me and we can connect.

[Jock Scot]

I well remember that there used to be quite a number of Xmarkers that gathered at that venue. They were a fun bunch of chaps who appeared to have a good time at Harpenden. I did not ever make it to the gathering there, as life seemed to conspire against me and I actually regret that as many fun and interesting xmarks members who visited the show have seemed to fallen by the wayside for their own good reasons, these days. Have fun.

[HarveyH]

Sent a pm - looking forward to seeing people later at the gathering .

It is always a good day and the massed bands make quite a sight in the middle of Hertfordshire.

[StevieR]

Alas, not for me this year - two big family celebrations this weekend, but hopefully in 2022!

[OC Richard]

Looking forward to photos, if you wish to post them.

I always enjoy vicariously attending distant Games I'll never see in person.

Have a great time! Richard

[Paco500]

I’ve finally arrived home, and it was both disappointing and absolutely wonderful. Disappointing as aside from the pipe bands (wonderful), some burly men throwing heavy things, and one kilt-makers stall, there was very little highland about it. Only counting non band-members or non competitive heavy thing throwers, I would be surprised if there were double-digit numbers of kilt-wearers.

But Paul Henry’s stall was a revelation. I was great to meet @HarveyH in person, and I wish things were slow enough at the booth that I could have spent more time talking about his fascinating career. Kilt-maker Paul is clearly a skilled craftsman and a gifted artist. I know exactly where my next kilt will be made.

I could have spent hours talking with Paul and Harvey, and, at some point I hope to do so.



From left to right- Paul, Me, Harvey. Dog is Tuck. He is a good boy.

[HarveyH]

It was a good day - I think several people we spoke to suggested their kilts had shrunk in the terrible past year(haha) - which is why they weren’t wearing them.

But I think the bands really enjoyed being able to play and meet up after this terrible time.

And very good to meet you.

[HarveyH]

[cessna152towser]

It is great to see you guys enjoying a meet up at Harpenden again.
In the past it was always a very pleasant gathering.
Still far too much covid here in Scotland, where we have the highest rates in Europe, but hopefully next year will get out and about again.