In the 1930’s a group of Scottish-Americans joined together to initiate a Scottish cultural event at Emerson Park, in Auburn, NY. Modeled after the Highland Games in Scotland they included many of the same events that knew so well. Unfortunately, the war years of the 1940’s ended large gatherings of people. As WW II ended, these same people joined together once again, and bolster by recent Scottish immigrants, they were granted a charter by the Royal Clan of the Order of Scottish Clans, a Scottish fraternal organization. On November 1st, 1945, Clan Douglas, #232, Order of Scottish Clans was born.
The members of Clan Douglas quickly moved to restart their “Scottish Games.” They were blessed to have a new venue for their Games. The State of New York and Onondaga County had invested greatly in the area surrounding Onondaga Lake to provide jobs for people unemployed during the Depression years, but also to provide a recreation area for the citizens of Onondaga County. The creation of Onondaga Lake Park provided a long-term home for the now named Central New York Scottish Games.
In 1984, it was clear that the aging members of Clan Douglas were no longer able to continue running the Scottish Games. The Clan, with other members of the Scottish community, created the not-for-profit corporation, the Central New York Scottish Games, Inc. In the early 1990’s, park renovations moved the Games from Griffin Field to the other end of Onondaga Lake Park, Long Branch Park. It was a fortuitous move – the site was perfect for a Scottish Games. The park contained a natural amphitheater where massed bands and competitions could be held. It contained groves of trees where clan and vendors could set up their tents. It was dominated by a hill where entertainments could be held. The Games have continued uninterrupted at this site until 2022 when the world-wide pandemic put all things on hold.
The Central New York Scottish Games is ready to welcome 2024 with the 81st Annual Games. On Saturday, August 12th, from 9am – 8pm, (always the 2nd Saturday in August) our family-friendly event will offer a day full of competitions in solo piping, drumming, pipe bands, Highland dancing, and heavy athletics. There will also be children’s games, Celtic musical entertainment, Celtic-themed vendors, food, clans, and societies. Twice during the day be thrilled by the massed pipe bands performing.
Come join us as we celebrate our return to beautiful Long Branch Park!
