Following the early Pre Show, the Tattoo began with the appearance and performance of the Fergus Brass Band Fergus Pipe Band and the Legion Colour Party.

The Hamilton Salvation Army Band began its programme with a medley of Russian Folk Songs ... very well performed, but the selections were confusing to the audience judging from the hushed comments of many in the audience. The band was invited to return later during the programme, and they certainly demonstrated their versatility.

The combined Air Cadet Band from Camp Borden was enthusiastically received by the crowd.

Cape Breton Tenor, Tom Leadbeater, entertained the audience with Celtic songs and a sing-along from the centre of the Festival Main Field as the final rays of the sun disappeared.

The pyrotechnic effects at the field gates finally worked, and the world-famous 48th Highlanders of Canada Pipes and Drums and Military Band made a spectacular entrance.

As the candlelight tribute continued, the massed bands filed onto the field. [Although the lighting was insufficient for photographs, the band of the Royal Regiment of Canada from Toronto was one of the hits of the evening ... when members pretended exhaustion and illnesses until only the sole bass drummer remained on the field with the conductor at the end of their final selection.] Highland dancers joined the assembled bands for the Finale.