MAC Scottish Festival

About the McMinnville Scottish Festival

With all this attention it seems few have pondered why it bears the name of McMinnville? Did anyone of importance in city history have that name? Are there Scottish or Irish roots?

As it turns out, no one in the city’s history was named McMinnville. The city’s founder William T. Newby (1820–1884), an early immigrant on the Oregon Trail, named the city after his hometown McMinnville, Tennessee. He must have cared for his home quite a bit to establish a city across the country with the same name.

McMinnville does indeed have Scottish roots; however, McMinnville, Tennessee was named after Governor Joseph McMinn (1758-1824). His grandfather, Robert McMinn (1690-1757) emigrated from his home in Perth, Scotland, to make a home in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

By importing the name of his hometown, William Newby intentionally, or unintentionally, brought a bit of Scotland to our city, McMinnville.

The Celtic Heritage Alliance builds on that Scottish connection and brings the “Mac” back in McMinnville with the McMinnville Scottish Festival! Join us October 5th and 6th, 2024 at the Yamhill County Fairgrounds.

Take advantage of our pre-sale discounts before the sale ends and save up to 20% off of gate prices. Admission tickets include a variety of exhibits, competition viewing, highland games, all concerts, and more! Event will take place, rain or shine, no refunds. The festival is put on by the Celtic Heritage Alliance, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. (Prices shown on ticket page reflect pre-sale discounts -while available- and do not require a code)

Buy 2024 Fest Tickets

Check out our 2024 Festival Schedule, with ongoing additions and updates until the event!

View 2024 Schedule