A touch of Scotland has come to Winnipeg for the annual Barge Festival at The Forks.

This year’s festival is based on the character, courage and culture of the Selkirk Settlers – a group of Scottish immigrants who introduced the family farming system to western Canada.

The event commemorates the 200th anniversary of their arrival.

“The Selkirk Settlers were displaced from Scotland and Lord Selkirk brought them here to start a new life,” said Phyllis Fraser of the Bicentenary of the Red River Selkirk Settlement committee. “I think they paved the way for so many immigrants to follow.”

2012’s installment of the festival began Friday night with a performance by Canadian Celtic singer John McDermott. McDermott was joined by the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra as he performed on a floating stage on the Assiniboine River.

Saturday the festivities include music and live entertainment. The group Celtica will take the stage around 8:30 p.m.

On Sunday the Selkirk Settlers annual parade will begin at 11:30 a.m. on Waterfront Drive and Alexander Avenue. The parade will make its way to The Forks for around noon.

The current Lord Selkirk from Scotland will be in attendance for the event.

For a full list of events at Barge Festival, see The Forks’ schedule. (http://www.theforks.com/events/signature-events/barge-festival)