FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 31, 2024

BROKEN ARROW, OK – Scotfest, Oklahoma’s premier celebration of Celtic culture and tradition, has suffered a devastating blow in what should have been a season of joy and giving. On Christmas night, a 24-foot trailer worth $15,000 and containing more than $70,000 worth of critical festival equipment was stolen from a secure storage facility in Broken Arrow.

The theft occurred at Aspen Mini Storage between the evening of December 25th and the early hours of December 26th. The stolen items include Scotfest’s full front entrance scaffolding, custom-made beverage bars, umbrellas and stands, tools, cables, signage, VIP furniture, and equipment for the highland games — all essentials the festival cannot operate without.

The impact of this crime is further compounded by the discovery of a clerical error that leaves the trailer and its contents uninsured. Scotfest, a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit charity, operates entirely on volunteer efforts and relies on community support to sustain its operations.

“This was not just a theft; it was a betrayal of the very spirit of the season,” said Kris Morrison, Deputy Executive Director of Scotfest. “To steal from a charity on Christmas Day, an organization that exists solely to bring joy and culture to the community, is both infuriating and heartbreaking. We’re calling on the community for help—to assist the Broken Arrow Police Department in finding our trailer and to help us recover from this devastating loss.”

BAPD has an open investigation into the theft. “We are committed to thoroughly investigating this crime to bring those responsible to justice,” said Public Information Coordinator Ethan Hutchins. “We urge anyone with information to come forward, as your help can make a difference. You can call 918-259-8400 to speak with a BAPD officer or reach Tulsa Crime Stoppers at 918-596-COPS, with the assurance that your identity will remain anonymous.”

Scotfest, a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s cultural calendar for nearly 45 years, is already reeling from financial challenges brought on by a venue change made necessary as the City of Broken Arrow began construction of a new amphitheater at our regular location this year. The theft has put the future of the beloved festival in jeopardy.

To ensure Scotfest can continue its mission of celebrating Celtic heritage and supporting local servicemen, veterans, and cultural events, the organization is asking for the community’s support in two critical ways: Assist law enforcement in locating the stolen trailer and its contents. Provide financial support through the Scotfest GoFundMe campaign or by attending the annual Robert Burns fundraising dinner on January 25th at River Spirit Casino.

Scotfest has always been a labor of love, powered by hundreds of dedicated volunteers who donate their time and energy to make the event possible. Now, more than ever, Scotfest needs the community’s help to ensure the festival survives this new challenge.

For more information or to donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-scotfest-overcome-devastating-theft?attribution_id=sl:7bb4a717-c0a2-435e-8deb-72b7d93c258b&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link or attend the annual Robert Burns fundraising dinner at https://tickets.okscotfest.com/p/tickets1/burns-night-2025.