The iconic and traditional Scottish culture festival of the Highland Games is set to return this spring with events all across the country, where people will be guaranteed to find a local event somewhere nearby.
Set to begin on the May 10 in Gourock, the 2026 season of the games will run through to September 13 after conducting more than 60 events across the Highlands, Argyll and Bute, the Borders, Fife, Perthshire and Stirlingshire, with Bridge of Allan and Stirling to have their games on August 2 and 15.
The annual games are a recognition of Scotland’s heritage and culture, which celebrates our history through hosting contests of ancient sporting with a unique but vibrant mix of music and dance.
What is on at the Highland Games?
It is renowned for its exciting array of medieval athletic games, from tossing the caber to hammer throw and tug-o-war among its strength-based activities.
The games also welcome a range of field and track competitions, alongside numerous Highland dancing and bagpipe contests.
The generous and exciting selection of events is enjoyed by all ages alike and attracts thousands of Scottish and international visitors each year.
What is the history behind it?
Although evidence linked back to the first event is limited, the competitions have been traced back to a footrace ordered by King Malcolm III in the 11th century, while some researchers have suggested that it may have roots back to Ireland circa 2000 BC.
The Games grew in popularity after the British government passed Act of Proscription in 1746 which was designed to squash Highland culture during the Jacobite uprisings. This outlawed Highland culture for 40 years. After the Act was repealed, the Games became increasingly popular and connected communities across Scotland and soon received worldwide recognition.
The celebrations are not confined to Scotland but across many continents. The first international Highland Games made their way over to New York in 1866, and over 200 games and gatherings are held annually across the USA and Canada as well as events also stretching over in Australia and New Zealand.
Who has attended?
The most prestigious of the gatherings is the event in Braemar, which has royal origins and is attended each year by the royal family.
Many celebrities have attended the games across the years, with the likes of Billy Connolly, Robin Williams, Joanna Lumley, Ewan McGregor and Sean Connery being some notable attendees.
How can I attend?
Tickets are available online months ahead of the events and can be accessed on different Highland Games websites, averaging at £12 per adult and £6 per child or concession, with family options also available.
Booking in advance is often recommended to secure spots, however some tickets may remain available at the gate on the day.
Buy tickets for the Stirling games here or find out more about them here.
Featured Image Credit: David Bremner via Wikimedia Commons
Third year journalism student at Stirling University
