A tradition of bagpipes, drums and sunsets continues in Goderich this July
- Kate Smith
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
During the month of July, the Celtic Blue Highlanders pipe down the sun on Friday evenings in the Town of Goderich.
Nearly one hour before sunset at the Goderich Rotary Cove, the pipe band draws a crowd of anywhere between 300 to 800 people for the four Fridays in July.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to bring a lawn chair and a cooler, enjoy comradery with your friends, listen to bagpipes and drums, and watch the sunset on the Prettiest Town in Canada,” said Pipe Major Matt Hoy, who plays the bagpipes in the Celtic Blue Highlanders.
According to Hoy, the tradition of piping down the sun started on the top of the hill by a former pipe band member, the late Elmer Blacklock.
A few of the local pipers and Blacklock, including local legend Donald Bert McAdam, would play on a Friday evening.
It did not take long until they started attracting a large crowd and due to parking concerns and the space needed to accommodate a larger crowd, they were forced to move to the bottom of the hill at Rotary Cove where the tradition continues today.
Eventually, due to the commitment required and interest from the community, the Celtic Blue Highlanders joined Elmer, Donald Bert and friends. This blossomed into the tradition that has become such a popular attraction in our community.
Hoy said the Celtic Blue Highlanders played one hour before sunset for many years every Friday night during June, July and September.
Eventually the commitment became too much for all involved and due to the smaller number of band numbers, the Celtic Blue Highlanders had to reduce the number of performances to only four in July.
“Pipers and drummers visiting Goderich and members of local bands often join in with the Celtic Blue and of course are always welcome,” added Hoy.
The Celtic Blue Highlanders will be playing July 4, July 11, July 18 and July 25 this year. The event is proudly supported by the Town of Goderich and Goderich Tourism.
Please join the Celtic Blue Highlanders for these special evenings.
Should you like to participate as a playing member or to learn bagpipes or the drums please feel free to contact Pipe Major Matt Hoy.
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