Highland Games in the Scottish Highlands

Scotland’s Highland Games are a dynamic celebration of culture, heritage, and athletic skill—set in some of the country’s most breathtaking locations. Especially popular throughout the Highlands, these one-of-a-kind festivals bring together locals and visitors for a vibrant mix of tradition, sport, music, and community spirit.

From the thunderous drama of the caber toss to the rhythmic swirl of kilts in Highland dancing and the stirring call of bagpipes, every moment of the Highland Games is steeped in Scottish pride and pageantry.

What to Expect at the Highland Games

These open-air gatherings are typically held over a single day in towns and villages across Scotland. The atmosphere is electric, with events that blend physical prowess, musical performance, and local flair.

Highlights include:

• Traditional sports: Caber toss, hammer throw, tug o’ war, and weight-for-height challenges.
• Cultural showcases: Highland dancing, solo piping contests, and pipe band performances.
• Family-friendly fun: Food and craft stalls, children’s activities, pet competitions, and parades.

Many events extend into the evening with live music, ceilidhs (traditional Scottish dances), and festive discos, making for a full day—and night—of entertainment.

A Global Tradition with Scottish Roots

The Highland Games are a deeply Scottish tradition—but their legacy spans the globe. Scottish emigrants carried the tradition with them, and today, events are held in countries like the United States (dating back to 1836), Canada, New Zealand, Norway, and Brazil. Still, there’s no better place to witness the Games in all their authenticity than right here in the Highlands.

Where to Find the Highland Games

Though their origins lie in the Highlands, today’s Highland Games take place all across Scotland. From the remote northern coastlines to the islands of the west, the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire, and down to the Scottish Borders, every region brings its own charm and traditions to the Games.

When Do They Take Place?

The Highland Games season begins in May and runs through September. The season opener is Gourock Highland Games in May, with the season finale taking place in September in Pitlochry.

Most events are held on weekends, making them perfect for day trips or weekend adventures.

Spotlight: Inverness Highland Games, Saturday 12th July 2025

Set in the heart of the Highlands, the Inverness Highland Games are among the most iconic. Held in Bught Park, near the banks of the River Ness, the event offers a powerful blend of tradition and community spirit.

Athletes from across Scotland and beyond gather to compete in classic contests like the caber toss, hammer throw, and weight-for-height. Track events, Highland dancing, and piping competitions keep the energy high and the atmosphere buzzing.

It’s a truly family-friendly experience, complete with children’s races, local food vendors, craft stalls, and cultural exhibitions. Whether you’re watching the strength contests or tapping your feet to the beat of the pipes, the Inverness Games leave a lasting impression.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re tracing your ancestry, exploring Highland culture, or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the Highland Games offer something for everyone. Join the crowd, cheer on the athletes, dance to the pipes, and become part of a tradition that’s been cherished for centuries.

2025 Highland Games & Gatherings in the Highlands

Every Highland Games event brings its own unique twist on tradition—but all share the same roots of pride, passion, and community. Here are some confirmed dates for 2025:

• Gordon Castle Highland Games – 18 May, Gordon Castle Estate, Fochabers
• Atholl Highland Gathering – 25 May, Blair Castle, Pitlochry
• Blackford Highland Games – 31 May, Blackford Park
• Drumtochty Highland Games – 28 June, Drumtochty Castle, Auchenblae
• Inverness Highland Games- 12 July, Inverness
• Tomintoul Highland Games – 19 July, Tomintoul
• Lochcarron Highland Games – 20 July, Lochcarron
• Balquhidder, Lochearnhead & Strathyre Games – 26 July
• Dufftown Highland Games – 26 July, Dufftown
• Halkirk Highland Games – 26 July, Braal Terrace, Halkirk
• Helmsdale Highland Games – 16 August, Couper Park, Helmsdale
• Cowal Highland Gathering – 28–30 August, Dunoon Stadium
• Braemar Gathering – 6 September, Braemar
• Blairgowrie & Rattray Highland Games – 7 September, Blairgowrie
• Pitlochry Highland Games – 13 September, Pitlochry