The bagpipes will sound and the tartan flags will fly in Dunedin on April 8 for the 40th annual Highland Games and Spring Clan Gathering.

The event spotlights one of the distinct and proud cultures of Florida’s Beach with its glimpse into Scottish celebrations of family, athletics, music, dancing and food.

Kilted participants toss the Dunedin Stone – the heaviest in the United States at 100 pounds – as well as cabers, sheaves and hammers. The games are patterned after the Heavy Events that were contested at rural fairs and gatherings, dating to the 12th century.

The Games highlight a week of Scottish events – including dinners, workshops, whisky tastings and a “Haggis Hunt” -- in the city that was founded by countrymen J.O. Douglas and James Somerville.

The 2006 Games move just to the south to Our Lady of Lourdes church, 750 San Salvador Dr., because of construction at Dunedin Community Center.

For information, visit www.dunedinhighlandgames.com or call 733-3197.