A quarter century of highland pride: Paris Port Dover Pipe Band celebrates a milestone year as they look back on 2025

Chris Whelan

Editor

PARIS/PORT DOVER — In the world of piping and drumming, 25 years is more than just a milestone; it is a testament to community, tradition, and the enduring power of the pipes. As 2025 draws to a close, the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band (PPD) is looking back on a silver anniversary year that can only be described as legendary.

From the local streets of Ontario to the historic esplanades of Scotland—and eventually the bright lights of a rock-and-roll stage—the band has spent the last twelve months proving why they remain one of the region’s most beloved cultural staples.

From Roots to Results

The year kicked off with a focus on the next generation. The band hosted Haggistest, a vital fundraiser ensuring their teaching program remains free to members—a mission they have proudly upheld for all 25 years of their existence.

Education remained a theme throughout the year, as the band hosted a world-class tenor drumming workshop with Simon Hodgett of the Grade 1 St. Laurence O’Toole band. That dedication to craft paid off on the field: the competition band officially upgraded to Grade 4 and secured a triumphant first-place trophy at the Kincardine Scottish Festival.

A Summer of Tradition

After a brief hiatus in 2024 to perform in Halifax, the band made a highly anticipated return to Port Dover for the July 1st Canada Day parade, much to the delight of local residents.

However, the "summer of a lifetime" took place across the Atlantic. Several members spent five weeks in Scotland participating in the 75th Anniversary of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Representing the PPD on the world stage, the members described the invitation as a profound honor and a highlight of the band’s quarter-century history.

The Best-Kept Secret in Hamilton

Perhaps the most electrifying moment of the year occurred on November 22, 2025. While rumors had swirled for weeks, the band remained under a strict veil of silence until the very last moment.

In a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience, members of the PPD took the stage with Sir Paul McCartney during his "Got Back" tour stop in Hamilton. This marked the fourth time the band has been invited to perform with the Beatles legend.

"For many of our members, it was their first time performing at such a high-profile event," a band representative shared. "We cannot thank Sir Paul enough for this incredible opportunity and wish him success on the rest of his tour."

Looking Ahead

As the pipes are packed away and the drums are silenced for a brief winter rest, the PPD looks toward the future with gratitude.

"Thank you to all of our members, volunteers, and followers who have supported us, whether for 25 years or 25 minutes," the band stated in a year-end wrap-up on social media. "Here’s to another 25 incredible years—Slàinte!"

The band has already confirmed that Fall Fusion will return in 2026. If 2025 was any indication, the next quarter-century is off to a roaring start.