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Public invited to Bagpipes & Bonfires for the Bell Tower Sept. 26

STILLWATER, MINN. — Bagpipes & Bonfires, a Celtic Church Street Festival, will be held Saturday, September 26, 5:30 – 10 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension located at 214 N. Third Street. The free, open-to-the-public event features old-world games, pub food, a live auction and Celtic folk music.

Guests will be greeted by a blazing copper-pit bonfire and bagpipe music by Dick Hensold, one of the preeminent Northumbrian smallpipers in North America. A hearty assortment of pub fare and drinks will be served. Outdoor tents will house old-world games including a medieval stockade, Hammerschlagen, wine ring toss, jousting, boche ball and Jacob’s ladder. The event’s live auction will feature a hand-made quilt, vacation packages, gourmet dinners and other large items. Coins, available in $20 and $50 bags, may be used to purchase food, beverages, games and more.

Festival proceeds will benefit the restoration of Ascension’s landmark bell tower built in 1888. “Church Street” refers to historic Third Street, lined with church steeples and bell towers during Stillwater’s lumber-baron era. The Episcopal Church of the Ascension was established in 1846 as Minnesota's first Episcopal congregation. The Episcopal Church is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, which traces its faith to the early Christian Church of the Apostles and traditions in England, Scotland and Wales.

Bagpipes & Bonfires is open to the adult public. For additional event information email BB@ae-church.org or visit www.ae-church.org.