Kilts, bagpipes, feats of strength

What could be more exciting than watching burly men in kilts heave massive telephone poles for bragging rights?

On August 17 at 10am, the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village (3755 Tonawanda Creek Road, formally the Amherst Museum) kicks off its annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games so bring a chair, park on the track, and watch the men and women of the Buffalo Heavies awe with various traditional feats of strength and skill. In addition enjoy dance troupes, weavers, local bagpipers, and blacksmiths illustrate a slice of traditional Scottish life.

Skipped breakfast? No worries! Head inside the museum and stop by the tea room for some tasty scones and a slice of pie. Outside vendors will feature traditional fare like meat pies, bridies and—of course—haggis for the gastronomically courageous. Thirsty? Head over to the pavilion, grab a beer, and check out one of several Celtic bands that will be playing on stage.

And if all that haggis and meat pie hasn’t filled you up already, stop just across the creek at Uncle G’s in Pendleton for a volcano sundae—it’s huge.

Summer Guide: Intro • Festivals, Garden Walks, and Tours Destinations: Griffis Sculpture Park • Explore Orleans County Peaceful Waters • Donaroo 2013 • Consider the Carousel Great Scot • Hat Trick on Main Features: Summer Concert Picks • Old Men of Summer Drive 'Em if Ya Got 'Em • If I Had a Boat... • Silo City Rocks