We don’t need much of an excuse to take the beautiful summertime drive down the Bitterroot.

But for those of you looking for a good reason, may we suggest the upcoming Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering in Hamilton?

Whether as a participant or just an onlooker, a fun experience is pretty much all but guaranteed at this 9th annual event. The list of activities is long, but here are some highlights:

• Highland Athletic Competitions: If super strong men in kilts hurling logs sounds like fun, then you don’t want to miss the Highland games. There’s lots of events for women and children in here too, and all participants receive a weekend pass plus a T-shirt. CLICK HERE for a schedule of events or to register.

• Dancing, drumming and piping competitions: Nothing brings us back to the old country like traditional Celtic song and dance, and the weekend is packed with competitions and showcases by all ages and abilities.

• Food: Nothing completes a festival like delicious food and drink, and at the Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering you’re going to be delighted by all the traditional fare options, including Scottish smoked salmon cheese pate, whiskey and scotch tastings and more!

Also, be sure to catch the Beards & Braids contest, the Tug-o-War and free piping and language classes throughout the weekend.

This year’s Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering kicks off at 9 am Saturday, August 18 and runs through the end of day Sunday. A full schedule of events is available HERE – or be sure to stay on top of the latest news and happenings on the group’s Facebook event page.

This year, 105.9 Jack FM is excited to be giving away TWO free weekend passes to the event. Just comment on the post over at Jack’s Facebook page and we’ll pick our winners at the end of the day Wednesday! Slainte!

-Zeke Campfield