This year, for its 6th annual Great Canadian Kilt Skate, Calgary finally got a break in the weather.

With temperatures on the plus side of zero, everyone could relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere — and a cup of hot chocolate..

It’s always nice to stand around a fire.

The pipers appreciate the warmth too: it’s much easier to keep the pipes in tune.

Lets put this in context: past years saw skaters baring their knees to temperatures in the minus-30s: the epitome of the Scottish concept of “thrawn”.

But this year, the Chinook winds came down from the mountains and warmed skaters and pipers alike.

The Calgary tradition continues: the choir began the opening ceremony by singing the national anthem in both English and Gaelic.

Newly-elected Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre, Greg McLean said a few words, then he took to the ice.

It was a nice family afternoon out for Greg and his wife, Ruth.

And they were soon joined by skaters young and old.

Youth has its privileges you get to carry the flag!

While the piper plays on.

A fine day for a skate in Calgary.

Many thanks to the organizers at the St. Andrew’s-Caledonian Society of Calgary.. We’re looking forward to next year.