By Kat Bryant

The Daily World

The Hood Canal Highland Celtic Festival might be a fun option this weekend if you have a brave heart and an inquisitive mind — and you don’t mind a bit of a drive.

General activities begin at 10 a.m. both days at Belfair State Park, with closing ceremonies at 5 p.m. today and 5:30 on Sunday.

Athletic games will highlight the festival, with competitors tossing cabers, hammers and stones in feats of strength and skill. The Seattle Knights will engage in choreographed combat every 20 to 25 minutes, and sheepdog herding demonstrations will be staged both days.

Those interested in learning about their Celtic roots can visit the tents of several Scottish clans to talk with members about their history and genealogy. The Pacific Northwest Cornish Society and Clans Campbell, MacLaren and Guthrie are just a few of the 15 groups represented.

Robert MacDonald Ford III of Aberdeen will be at the Clan Donald tent in his tartan, telling stories about two members of his clan who had a hand in this city’s history: ship builder Tom MacDonald and saloon owner Billy MacDonald.

Ford is his clan’s official “convener” for Grays Harbor County, and he’s been involved in the annual event from the beginning. “You couldn’t have it in a nicer spot than Hood Canal,” he said. “It’s like being on a Scottish loch.”

A variety of Celtic musicians and dancers will perform throughout the weekend, and more than 20 food and craft vendors will be open for business. Children’s games and crafts also will be offered, as well as a beer garden for the adults. A Celtic breakfast will be offered in the beer tent at 8 a.m. both days.

Belfair State Park is about 72 miles from downtown Aberdeen, at 3151 NE State Route 300. Tickets are available at the gate, but they’re accepting cash only, so be prepared. (The actual ticket price was unavailable at press time.)