Scottish Highland Games

(Image above us a capture of a Highland Dancing competition.)
During the period May to September each year a wide range of communities throughout Scotland hold a Highland Games event. The two largest and most prestigious Games events are:
  • Cowal Highland Games at Dunoon, about 34 miles N.W. of Glasgow, a distance which includes a ferry crossing.This event takes place during the final weekend in August.
  • Braemar Gathering at Braemar, a village located about 58 miles west of Aberdeen. The British Royals are usually represented at this event which is situated relatively close to Balmoral Castle.The event is held on the first Saturday of September.
Heavy Athletics

The Games in their current form date from the 19th century with each event having a range of competitions which may include:
  • Caber Tossing
  • Hammer Throw
  • Shot Put
  • Tug o'war
  • Hill Race
  • Highland Dancing
  • Solo Piping
  • Masses Bands
  • Junior Athletics
  • Wrestling
  • Senior Athletics.
Solo Piping

There may side shows such as livestock competitions, small dog racing and haggis throwing.

Such events typically last the part of a day. Visitors wishing to attend a Games should find a suitable event by using the web search term 'Scottish Highland Games Events Calendar' .

Pipe Band en-route to Games event.


Refreshments-Arbroath Smokies


© Nigel P Cole/Catswhiskerstours Limited

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