what?
Highland Games events offer feats of strength and endurance, traditional dancing and piping displays in the open air.
Highland flings
by Fergus GriersonWith Scotland basking in the heat (or otherwise) of another summer, its time for s1play to round up the pick of another Highland Games season.
With roots in feudal times, Highland Games mix the traditional tartan clad appeal of a tin of Edinburgh rock minus the tooth decay – and with plenty more in the way of fresh air and outdoor excitement.
The average games offers a range of heavy events like throwing the hammer, tossing the caber, the shot put, and the tug o’ war, as well as athletics and track and field events, and dancing and piping competitions. Add in trade events, stalls, and entertainment and the majestic natural beauty of the Scottish countryside, and you have the makings of a perfect day out for visitors and locals alike. Here are a few suggestions.
The biggest games of the season are the Cowal Highland Gathering in Dunoon, spanning 28-30August, featuring all of the usual attractions plus The World Scottish Highland Dance Championships, and a Ceilidh Tent headline slot for bagpipe rock sensations the Red Hot Chili Pipers.
Looming almost as large is the Braemar Gathering on Friday September 6, attended annually by the Queen, and notable for its massed pipe band display, and InterServices Unit Tug of War Championship.
Also worth a mention are the City of Inverness Highland Games (July 19-20), which adds aerobatic and parachute displays and a performance from the Proclaimers to the mix. Further north, the Halkirk Highland Games (July 26) offers the biggest prize purse of the season and competitors from all over the world.
Those on the lookout for something a bit different can try Stirling Highland Games, which boasts a haggis eating competition, while the Lochaber Highland Games (presided over by honorary chieftain Sir Jimmy Saville) includes an authentic clan battle with period weaponry and costume.