Highland Village Hosts Heritage Events

The Highland Village in Iona, Victoria Co., begins its 2010 season on Tuesday, June 1. During the summer a number of special events are being held to celebrate the Gaelic heritage and language in the province.

Events begin on Saturday, June 5 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., with a Gaelic song social called Caidreabh nan Òran or Gathering in the Spirit of Good Company. The social will be led by Highland Village's manager of interpretation Jim Watson and singer Mary Jane Lamond. The workshop will encourage people to socialize through the Gaelic language. Registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and students are free of charge.

On Wednesday, June 9, Highland Village will mark Féill Caluim Cille or St. Columba Feast Day with traditional food during regular operating hours. This is also the 50th anniversary of the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society, which will hold its annual general meeting at 7 p.m., followed by a special presentation on the life and legacy of St. Columba and a céilidh in the Tuning Room. Admission is free.

On Saturday, June 12, historical interpretation will focus on cloth production. Cash's Carding Mill Day will begin with a sheep shearing demonstration performed by wool expert Sarah Nettleton. She will shear three sheep, demonstrate fleece throwing, skirting and rolling. Ms. Nettleton will also deliver a lecture on wool processing. Sheep shearing and related activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Charlie Cash will also be on hand to talk about the mill. Regular admission prices apply.

From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday June 12, textile researcher and animator Vicki Quimby will conduct Am Breacan Bòidheach Fasanta or Mary's Bonny Plaid, a natural dye workshop using natural dyes to add colour to the cloth and yarns. Participants will learn about various dyeing techniques and will be able to dip a few skeins of their own. Pre-registration is required. Workshop is open to all ages. Admission is $10.

For information on any of these events call 902-725-2272, e-mail [email protected], or go to www.visithighlandvillage.ca