The Scottish Highland Games are a long-standing tradition in most major cities of Scotland. The most famous of the games take place in Braemar, attended by the English Royal Family.
Beginning in the 11th century as a foot race, the Scottish Highland Gamescertainly evolved from their humble beginnings. The games became more modernized in the 19th century, expressing more competitive interest in strength, endurance and speed.
Now an annual tradition, the Braemar games test athletes in three major categories: heavyweight games, traditional dance and musical competitions. Serious competitors train year-round for the Highland Games, especially the heavyweight competition.
The caber toss is the signature game, when competitors carry logs more than 12 feet long. The stone-put, much like shot-put, is another popular competition along with the Maide Leisg, meaning “lazy stick”. All of the games have remained mostly the same for hundreds of years, never modernizing with technology.
The dances too remain rooted in tradition with the Sword Dance of Gille Calum, dating to year 1054. Bagpipe bands and solo pipe competitions make up another vital part of this Celtic tradition, where onlookers can dance, listen and enjoy the hauntingly beautiful competition.
With a competitive tone close to the Olympics and added cultural flare of tradition, the games are quite a spectacle in Scotland.
Read This Next
Sipping Whiskey on Bow Street
Food & Drink
Dec 7, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 24, 2024How to See the Northern Lights in Alberta, Canada, This Year
You may have heard 2024 is going to be one of the best years to see the northern lights and, if you’re interested in experiencing this phenomenon for yourself, you likely have been thinking about making the trip to Iceland or Scandinavia — notable destinations for northern lights viewing. However, you don’t have to leave North America to take in the Aurora Borealis. Alberta offers plenty of spots and ways to see the northern lights.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Hotel
Apr 24, 2024Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Announces Nashville Nights Songwriter’s Series
Aloha, Nashville! Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa recently announced the launch of its Nashville Nights songwriter’s series featuring artists from Music City. Once a month for the next six months, guests can experience an evening of live music with the inaugural show scheduled for April 27 and featuring Gracee Shriver and Noel Bisesti.
North America
Apr 23, 2024Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection Debuts Highland Golf and Wine Classic
Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection announced its first-ever Highland Golf and Wine Classic in Virginia. The three-day celebration of golf, wine and culinary experiences takes place May 25–27.
Sponsored Content
The Argosaronic Islands Are Calling
The Saronic or Argo Saronic Islands of Greece call travelers to explore its seven small islands and islets brimming with history, natural sites and more. With most easily accessible by boat, the islands’ proximity to ports of Athens make the Saronic Islands an ideal destination for those preferring shorter boat rides. In fact, trips from Athens ports to the islands take only between 10 minutes and two hours, depending on the island you choose, making them perfect for day or weekend trips.
Food & Drink
Apr 23, 2024Myrtle Beach is Launching an Official Destination Beer
Looking for the perfect beach beer? Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has you covered. Last month, the destination partnered with Grand Strand Brewing Company to release the official beer of Myrtle Beach, dubbed Beach Easy.
ShareThis