The Highland Games are a traditional event that take place across Scotland every summer. As the season of Highland games draws to an end, we reflect on why so many people enjoy these events.
Summer is coming to an end. Before the warm days are over, there’s still a chance to experience a Highland Games.
Tradition, sport, music, and outdoors in one
Highland Games provide a series of competitions, festivals and other events all in one place and from May to September each year. There a Games that take place across Scotland.
These games are not just sports, but an expression of Scottish identity and culture. Traditional caber toss or hammer throws are combined with piping performances and Scottish dancing.
It’s possible to visit the Highland games and enjoy the spectacle, or take part in some of the events yourself.
A glimpse into history
The history of the Highland Games is believed to date back to the 11th century. According to legend, King Malcolm III organised a competition for the fastest couriers. Over time, it became a traditional part of clan life in the highlands of Scotland.
After the defeat of the clans at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, the British tried to destroy the Highland culture. One of the prohibitions was against any clan gatherings, including the Highland Games. However, the freedom-loving Scots held their meetings in secret and preserved the tradition.
The revival of the Games occurred in the mid-19th century, when Queen Victoria took a liking to them. Then Balmoral Castle became the summer residence of the royal family. So, while strolling, the Queen visited the Games. This gave the event a royal scale and helped popularise it.
Scottish culture showcase
In the 20th century, the Highland Games became what we now know them as. They are regular competitions, held according to clear rules and with their own calendar. All events within the Games are of different scales – from local competitions and fairs in small villages to large festivals that attract hundreds of tourists from all over the world.
At the Highland Games, you can enjoy folk music and dancing, Haggis and other traditional dishes, and more. All the events reproduce Scottish culture. Nowadays, Highland Games are also held in Canada, Norway, the USA, and other countries with large diasporas. But the best flavour is felt here, in the cradle.
And of course, you can cheer on the best hammer and boulder throwers. You can even place bets if you want. But don’t confuse it with the Highland League. At the Highland Games, bets are placed right on the spot. You are unlikely to find these events in the sports section on non-Gamstop betting sites.
The great final
This year’s Highland Games are ending, but you can still join in on the Braemar Gathering, the culmination of the season on September 6. Traditionally, this event takes place on the first Saturday in September. It’s a great chance to escape from the daily routine and spend the last warm days outdoors.
The Braemar Gathering has been held in its current format since 1832. It is not only a sporting event, but also a cultural symbol. The event is attended annually by members of the British royal family. The Braemar Gathering features tug o’ war, solo piping, Highland dancing, and the legendary Services Medley Relay Race.
Most Highland Games events are free to visit, but you do need a ticket to see the Braemar Gathering. This is due to the scale of the event and the presence of royals.
