From a dawn lantern dance around the Standing Stones, to the strains of traditional Scottish folk songs wafting through the hills, Glen Innes was in costume and in character to welcome Outlander fans from around the world.

Committee member and chair of the Australian Standing Stones Management Board Judi Toms said there weren’t enough words to praise Julie Clement of the Services Club, whose vision brought the event to life.

“Julie had the passion and wanted all along to maintain the authenticity,” Judi said.

Besides the 440 people registered for the whole weekend, Judi said the markets and the restaurant themed events were also huge drawcards.

“The local bus company helped to get everyone to the stones by 4am for the lantern dance. Everyone was asked to be quiet, and even with that number of people you could hear  a pin drop. Everyone was just captured by the atmosphere. 

“The other great thing was that the Red Cross, Quota, Lionesses, Lions  and Rotary all helped with the catering, which was ancient Scottish fare, and the locals dressed the part – it all added to the experience.”

Judi said the pagan spirits must have heard the committee’s plea to make the rain stay away, as the weather was perfect.

“People were already wanting to know when can they start booking for next year.”

Council’s events co-ordinator Navanka Fletcher said visitors started to arrive on Thursday and all the motels and local accommodation booked out from Friday until Sunday. 

“Local cafes and restaurants commented on how busy they were throughout the weekend.”