Highland games - too much Highlander

While visiting the Pacific Northwest Scottish Highland Games and Clan Gathering for the second time in my life (I admit it, as a Scot I'm fascinated), I was again struck by the number of participants who felt it neccessary to wear swords.  Not just small plastic replicas mind you, 5 foot double handed broadswords.  And perhaps not just one sword either, maybe you need one slung over your back as well as a 3 foot sword at your side. And if you happened to forget yours, don't worry, there are several vendors who will sell you a 4 foot Ninja sword for $35. 

Don't get me wrong, I can understand how people would want to celebrate their Scottish culture.  But I think you'll find most Scots back in the glens have given up their swords in favour of beer mugs.  Although there was a healthy showing of that aspect of Scottish culture too.

Still, all in all a very enjoyable time, I highly recommend it to anyone who is the least bit curious about Scottish culture.  Just beware of the sharp pointy things.

John