⭐Celebrating Scotland’s ORIGINAL Cowboys and Cowgirls!

All  International Clan MacFarlane Society members are cordially invited to attend the 2024 Clan MacFarlane Annual World Gathering and General Meeting, where MacFarlanes from all over the globe will come together in San Antonio, Texas to celebrate our shared culture and history as infamous Cattle Rustlers, as well as to recognise the sacrifice of brace Scots at the Alamo. Mark your calendars anhttps://gmhg.orgd join us for this special “Kilts & Cowboy Boots” edition of our annual event. 3rd – 7th April 2024.

This year’s celebration will take place during the San Antonio Highland Games & Celtic Music Festival. The San Antonio Highland Games was founded to educate the people of San Antonio and Texas about Scottish culture through the organization and promotion of various activities.

This year’s Gathering is a self-guided event. Attendees will need to secure their own travel into San Antonio as well as transfers to/from all events.

⭐Schedule of Events!

Over the course of this 5 day event, you will have the opportunity to attend key events with an international family of clans. Event package includes:

• Clan MacFarlane Celtic Cowboy Kick-Off  Ceilidh
• Kilts & Cowboy Boots Clan Gathering drinks reception & buffet dinner on the with participant clans and their chiefs
• Kilts & Cowboy Boots Clan Gathering whisky/wine tasting & “bonniest knees” competition with participant clans and their chiefs
• Participation at the San Antonio Highland Games
• Spend time meeting and greeting with your MacFarlane family in the MacFarlane clan tent at the San Antonio Highland Games
• March with Clan MacFarlane in the Parade of Clans
• Clan MacFarlane Annual General Business Meeting
• Mini-Highland Games Clan Battle with Clan Colquhoun, Clan Buchanan, Clan Graham, Clan Hunter, Clan MacEwen and Clan MacFarlane on the San Antonio games field.
• Tour of the Alamo and a visit to the Alamo Exhibit, including the Phil Collins Collection
• Riverboat Cruise of the San Antonio River
• Kilts & Cowboy Boots Clan Gathering BBQ Banquet at Pedrotti’s Ranch with participant clans and their chiefs
• After-Games Wind Down & Meet-up

See the full itinerary and schedule of events below!

*Does NOT include tickets to the San Antonio Highland Games. Attendees will need to purchase Games tickets on their own either before-hand or at the gate on Games day.  Dinner events include food only. Cash bar available at reception and dinner events.  Opening night kick-off ceildh – BYOB.

Open to all active International Clan MacFarlane Society Members.

Want to attend this amazing event? Then click the button below to join Clan MacFarlane today. 

If you are a member, then log into your member’s account and the registration button will appear above.

⭐Battle of The Clans!

For hundreds of years Scottish clans in the Lennox fought for domination and resources. Ancient alliances between the MacFarlanes and MacGregors against Clan Colquhoun are well documented. The Battle of Glen Fruin is one of the most famous events.  Today, the diaspora may have ventured far from the rugged Scottish Highlands, but we share the hallowed space of Scottish Games across the globe,  cultivate enduring friendships, bound by unwavering love for Scotland and the rich tapestry of our Scottish heritage.

Defending Our Title – Loch Sloy! Once again, during our World Gathering, Clan MacFarlane will defend our championship title as we face off against clans Colquhoun, MacEwen, Graham, Buchanan, and Hunter in friendly competition and some modern warfare at the Battle of the Clans to be held during the San Antonio Highland Games.  So shine up your boots and grab your hats and join us for what will be a very special gathering. Don’t wait to hear about how exciting our Clan gathering was, come and see for yourself!

⭐Meet The Chiefs!

Once again, in the spirit of clansmanship, dignitaries from clans Colquhoun, Graham, MacFarlane, MacEwen, Hunter and Buchannan will be on hand to mix and mingle. This event offers a rare chance for clansmen and women from across the globe to connect and bond with our very special guests over their shared heritage. Schedule to be in attendance:

A Message From Our “Kilts and Cowboy Boots” Host, Sir Malcolm Colquhoun, 33rd Chief of Colquhoun

⭐About San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas, holds a special place in the tapestry of American history, with a rich and captivating past that continues to charm visitors today. Founded in 1718 as a Spanish mission, it played a pivotal role in the Texas Revolution, famously serving as the site of the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. This enduring legacy is celebrated through historic sites and cultural events. Beyond its historical significance, San Antonio boasts a unique blend of cultures, reflected in its vibrant arts scene, delectable Tex-Mex cuisine, and the mesmerizing River Walk, a picturesque network of waterways winding through the heart of the city. The Alamo City‘s beauty is also evident in its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, where colorful markets, historic churches, and lush parks come together to create an enchanting atmosphere, making San Antonio a city that seamlessly marries the past with the present.

⭐Scots and The Battle of The Alamo

The Battle of the Alamo, a pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution, witnessed not only the courage and resilience of Texan defenders but also the significant sacrifice of Scottish individuals who stood alongside their fellow compatriots in the face of overwhelming odds.  Among the men who fought and died at the Alamo during the Texas Revolution against Spain, just over three quarters of the Texans who died were Scots or of Scots descent.  Among these were men there were Alamo heroes such as James Bowie and William Travis, but also soldiers such as Second Sergeant John MacGregor who would play his pipes to raise the spirits of his fellow soldiers.  Their determination and unwavering commitment to the cause of Texan independence exemplify the enduring spirit of the Scottish people. Despite the ultimate sacrifice they made, their legacy lives on, reminding us of the indomitable strength and dedication of those who fought for freedom at the Alamo. The contributions of these Scottish individuals are an integral part of the tapestry of courage and sacrifice that defines the Battle of the Alamo.

 

ITINERARY AND SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

WED 3RD APRIL

DAY ONE

DAY | Arrive Into San Antonio.

If you are planning to fly into the area, then the closest airport will be San Antonio International Airport.  Attendees will need to secure their own transportation, which for most of us, will mean renting a car.

Check into hotel.

EVENING | Clan MacFarlane World Gathering Kick-Off Ceilidh

Join us for a casual evening of  food and fun as we kick off our “Kilts and Cowboy Boots” weekend.  Celtic style Texas entertainment and some surprise activities to entertain all evening long! MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub will be on hand to create a down-home outdoor Texas BBQ experience. Vegetarian options will be available.

THURS 4TH APRIL

DAY TWO

DAY | San Antonio Sites

We’ll spend some time taking in the major sites of downtown San Antonio.

The Alamo

Established in 1718 as Mission San Antonio de Valero, the former mission now known as the Alamo has been a crossroads of history. Having existed under five flags of independent nations and served as a garrison for five different armies, the Alamo has a rich history and a heritage to inspire. Best known as the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, where Scots fought and died, the rest of the 300 year history is vital to understanding why the Battle happened and its importance.

We’ll take a guided tour through the grounds that explores the outdoor battlefield, iconic Alamo Church and concludes in the Alamo Exhibit at the Ralston Family Collections Center.

Riverwalk Boat Cruise

There is no better way to see the Riverwalk of San Antonio than from a cruise down the river.  We’ll take a private charter cruise down the San Antonio River right through the historic heart of the city. Our captain will guide us through the experience as we connect to the city’s culture, history, architecture, and timeless charm.

EVENING | Meet & Greet With Loch Lomond Clans

Thursday evening marks the official beginning of the Loch Lomond clans “Kilts and Cowboy Boots” Battle of the Clans event.  A gathering of the Loch Lomond Initiative comprised of Clans Colquhoun, MacFarlane, Graham, Buchanan, Hunter and MacEwen all coming together in the spirit of celebrating our share history and heritage through kinsmanship and friendly competition.

6PM | Informal Meet and Greet Reception | Omni La Mansión del Rio

To kick off the Gathering, we will attend an informal meet & greet at the Omni La Mansión del Rios on the River Walk with members of Clan Colquhoun, Clan Buchanan, Clan Graham, Clan Hunter and Clan MacEwen.  Accompanied by your choice of a whisky tasting (flights from Highland, Isaly, Lowland and Speyside regions) or a wine tasting (tasting trio from Fall Creek Vineyards).  Finger food & appetizers will be served.

The Battle of the Clans will get started with a “Bonniest Knees” competition.  So gentlemen, kilt up and get ready to show off those knees!

Casual wear with kilts

FRI 5TH APRIL

DAY THREE

DAY | Explore San Antonio, Genealogy Class

San Antonio is a unique city indeed!  There is so much to take in. So take the day to wander the area. Read this article for a list of where to go and what to see.

10AM | Introduction to DNA and Genealogy | Omni La Mansión del Rio

Clan Colquhoun genealogist Tiffany McCarter Evans gives a beginners seminar on getting started with DNA and genealogy research.

EVENING | GFMHG Events

615 PM | Welcome To Kilts and Cowboy Boots Reception & Buffet Dinner | Omni La Mansión del Rio

This is your chance to mix and mingle with clan chiefs and leaders!  The evening will begin with a cocktail reception followed by the next “Battle of the Clan” event – the How Scottish or Nottish Are You? Scottish heritage and culture quiz.  Each clan will have submit a team of 6 competitors in a contest of intellectual skill.  Clan Chiefs and dignitaries scheduled to attend:

Clan Colquhoun – Sir Malcolm Colquhoun and Lady Colquhoun
Clan Graham – The Marquis of Graham, James Graham
Clan MacFarlane – President Michael MacFarlane
Clan Hunter – Madame Pauline Hunter of Hunterston

The night will be topped off by a delicious buffet dinner in one of the Omni’s beautiful ballrooms.

Cocktail attire or daytime Highland dress preferred.

SAT 6TH APRIL

DAY FOUR

DAY | San Antonio Highland Games

Join us in the Clan MacFarlane Hospitality Tent hosted by Commissioners Mari and James Bittner.  Enjoy a day of Scottish athletics, music, food and fun. Meet and greet your MacFarlane family from all over the world!

11AM (T) | Clan Parade

Unleash the Highlander within and proudly march with Clan MacFarlane in the grand Parade of Tartans! Let your tartan wave proudly, a vibrant thread in the rich tapestry of our shared heritage.

1PM | Battle of The Clans

Get ready for the Battle of the Clans where Clan MacFarlane will face off with the other Loch Lomond clans in a test of strength and skill! includes tug of war, 3 ft Caber toss, sheaf toss, axe throwing, and golf putt. Join the excitement as our team defends their championship title with strength, precision, and a whole lot of Highland spirit!

EVENING | Clan MacFarlane 50th World Gathering Formal Dinner & Banquet

6PM | Kilts and Cowboy Boots Clan Gathering | Pedrotti’s Ranch

Saddle up and don your kilts for a toe-tappin’, boot-scootin’ good time at the Kilts and Cowboy Boots Clan Gathering at Pedrotti’s Ranch! Indulge in a mouthwatering BBQ buffet, witness the mesmerizing Texas Drill Team on horses, and be honored by the presence of Sir Malcolm Colquhoun of Luss delivering a warm welcome address. Join us for an unforgettable evening of awards, remarks, and the lively twang of Texas line dancing. It’s a fusion of Scottish spirit and Southern charm you won’t want to miss!

Highland Dress, Western Wear, or Kilts and Cowboy Boots

SUN 7TH APRIL

DAY FIVE

DAY | San Antonio Highland Games

Join us for Day 2 in the Clan MacFarlane Hospitality Tent hosted by Commissioners Mari and James Bittner.  Enjoy a day of Scottish athletics, music, food and fun. Meet and greet your MacFarlane family from all over the world!

EVENING | Kilts and Cowboys Weekend Wind-Down

6 PM | Location – To Be Announced

Clan MacFarlane will host an after-games meet up with all of the Kilts & Cowboy Boots Weekend clan members at a venue to be announced.