The Highland games are a centuries-old tradition dating back as far as the 11th century. It is said that King Malcolm III was looking to appoint the fastest runner to be his courier so he called for a foot race to the summit of Craig Choinnich. Of course, the modern-day Highland Games has evolved, but to this day, the hill race is still included in many games.
Where does it take place?
The highland games originated in the Scottish Highlands but today the events take place all across the country in outdoor spaces.
When does it take place?
The season for the Highland Games starts in May and ends in September. During this time various events take place across the country. The events usually peak in August. The Highland games are known to be day events and run from 10 am to 4 pm. Everything happens in one day so do not expect the activities to carry over into the next day.
What are the different events?
As previously mentioned, the hill race is one of the oldest events the Highland games are known for, but what are some of the other events that make this event so special? Initially, the games were merely a test of strength and endurance but not anymore.
Strength, stamina, and speed are still tested through events like the shotput tug o’ war and hammer throw which test your muscles. These iconic events were once included as Olympic games. Field events such as the hill race and cycling will test your stamina. The ultimate and most iconic Highland games event is the Caber toss.
Rumour has it that the Caber toss developed from the need to toss logs over chasms. Judging this event used to include the distance the log gets tossed but not anymore. These days the most important thing is the style. competitors are expected to toss logs that might weigh up to 11 Stone with the aim of it falling away from them in the 12 o’clock position.
As time progressed the culture started becoming a part of the Highland games and it started including events such as Highland dancing and music. Dancing was originally an all-male event.
It wasn’t until the 19th Century that women were allowed to partake. Some of the iconic dances are the Highland fling and sword dancing. The best dancers are said to be from the Cowal Gathering. Dancers from there go on to partake in the Scottish and world championships.
Bagpipes are probably one of the first things that come to mind when you think about Scotland. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that music became one of the major attractions of the Highland games.
Bands with hundreds of pipers and drummers gather to compete against each other showcasing their talent and skill. These people may all come from different regions but they come together as one to march and play in unison.
One of the biggest draws is the solo competitions where pipers play an array of styles including the classical music of the bagpipe, Pibroch. Pibroch is known for being slow and stately but complex making it a great means for showing your skills in a competition that’s being judged.
Besides music and dancing, other events include parades, livestock events as well as pet competitions. You will also be able to find craft stalls and games.
History of the games
As previously stated, the highland games have a long history. The Braemar Gathering was awarded Royal Patronage but Queen Victoria herself. The reigning monarch still attends the Braemar Gathering regularly.
Traditionally a member of the local community gets bestowed with the ceremonial role of chieftain. The responsibility of the chief is to open the games, lead processions as well as overseeing the entire event. The chieftain doesn’t really have any power. Their purpose is solely ceremonial.
The Highland games are a celebration of Scottish culture. It’s a great way for the people to celebrate what is unique about their culture and carry on and preserve the tradition. The Highland games is a must see if you’re planning to travel.
Look up https://www.visitingscotland.com for some advice if you’re not quite sure where to start. They have some useful information on where to stay and what to do in the magnificent country, steeped in tradition.
