Keeping Tradition Alive: Nelson, BC, Hosts a Special Edition of the Annual SPRING FLING

While many pipers, drummers, and dancers from BC’s Interior take part in historic commemorations in the Netherlands this May, those remaining closer to home will keep the music alive in Nelson, BC. On May 2nd and 3rd, members of several Interior pipe bands will gather for the annual Spring Fling event — a beloved tradition dating back to 1979.

Originally started by the Revelstoke Highlanders under Pipe Major Archie McConnachie, the Spring Fling has long been a highly anticipated event where musicians from across the region reunite for a weekend of camaraderie, competition, and, of course, piping and drumming. While this year’s event will be a more relaxed affair due to many members travelling abroad, the heart of the gathering remains: great music, shared stories, and plenty of laughter.

Spring Fling—With a Twist

Typically, the Spring Fling weekend includes a parade, performances, and a series of fun competitions judged by members of the host city’s band. Some of these competitions usually take place during the Saturday night Ceilidh, adding to the festive atmosphere. However, with so many members of participating bands travelling to Holland this year, the Spring Fling will take on a more intimate, informal feel—less of a full-blown dinner event and more like a good old-fashioned kitchen party at the historic [1908] Eagles Hall on Nelson’s famous Baker Street. While the usual competitions will be on hold, there will be opportunities to play with folks from other bands and to learn together in short workshop settings. The weekend will still be filled with music, storytelling, and plenty of laughter.

Leading the charge for this year’s gathering is David Hogg, Pipe Major of the Kootenay Kilties Pipe Band. “We just want to make sure we keep the tradition going, even with a different format,” says Hogg. “We are looking forward to bringing folks together to play music, expand our circle of friends, and host a great party.”

A Legacy of Music in Nelson

The Kootenay Kiltie Pipe Band, an integral part of Nelson’s history, last hosted the Spring Fling in 2019 for their 100th anniversary. Originally formed in 1919 under Pipe Major William McLeary, the band traces its roots to the early Scottish heritage of the region. Over the decades, the Kilties have played a key role in local events, Highland Games, piping schools, parades, and ceremonies, and this continues today ensuring that Scottish culture remains vibrant in the Kootenays.

In 2019, when the Kootenay Kilties celebrated their 100th anniversary, the commemorative Spring Fling t shirt even featured a special tune written by Iain MacCrimmon, marking the occasion—just one example of how music and tradition continue to be woven into the fabric of the event.

Looking Ahead to 2026
For those who may be missing out on the full Spring Fling experience this year, there’s good news—the event is set to return in full force in 2026! While the next host city has yet to be announced, one thing is certain: the Spring Fling will continue to be a fun, lighthearted gathering where the focus is on friendship and music rather than competition. And who knows? Maybe in 2026, an invitation will be extended to bands from beyond the Coast Mountains to join in the fun!

Article Submitted by P/S Andrew Moore Kelowna Pipe Band

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