One of Colorado's most beloved Celtic celebrations is marking a major milestone. The Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival returns to Estes Park for its 50th anniversary, September 11–13, 2026, bringing three days of world-class Scottish Highland athletics, Celtic rock and folk music, Irish and Highland dance, pipe bands, clans, cultural experiences, food, drinks and more.
Special Golden Jubilee highlights include the Sword Experience with Highlander star Adrian Paul, the first ScotFest appearance by international bestselling author and BBC presenter Coinneach MacLeod, known as the Hebridean Baker, and the return of Highland cattle to the festival field.
The 40th Estes Park International Tattoo will also bring military and Celtic pageantry to Estes Park on Friday and Saturday evenings, featuring performers from the United States, Wales, Australia and beyond. The 2026 Tattoo is especially significant as it celebrates three milestones at once: the festival’s 50th anniversary, America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary.
A Colorado nonprofit, the festival has been a top attraction in Estes Park for half a century. Organizers note that the event needs community support to continue for generations to come. Tickets and tax-deductible donations are both available through the festival website.
“Three milestones: the Festival’s 50th anniversary, America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary.
Estes Park International Tattoo, 2026
Festival field: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily
Tattoo: Fri. Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. · Sat. Sept. 12 at 5:30 p.m.