Highland games

Brief information

Highland games are events held throughout the year in Scotland and other countries. Certain aspects of the games are so well known as to have become emblematic of Scotland. The games also include entertainment and exhibits related to other aspects of Scottish and Gaelic culture. Opening ceremonies of 2004 Canmore Highland games

History It is reported in numerous books and Highland games programs Some have seen this apocryphal event to be the origin of today's modern Highland games. The modern Highland games are largely a Victorian invention, developed after the Highland Clearances.

Events

Highland games revolved around athletic and sports competitions. Though other activities were always a part of the festivities The athletic competitions are at least an integral part of the events and one the caber toss has come to almost symbolize the Highland games. A caber being thrown at the 2000 New Hampshire Highland Games

Weight throw Weight throw, also known as the weight for distance event. The weights are made of metal and have a handle attached either directly or by means of a chain. The implement is thrown using one hand only, but otherwise using any technique. The longest throw wins.

Music The most memorable of all the events at the games is the massing of the pipe bands. Normally held in conjunction with the opening and closing ceremonies of the games. Massed bands at the 2005 Pacific Northwest Highland Games

Highland Pipeband Competition Circle [Prince Charles Pipe Band 2008]

Dance The Cowal Highland Gathering hosts the annual World Highland Dancing Championship. This event gathers the best competitive dancers from around the world who compete for the SOBHD sanctioned World Championship title. Assembling for the parade of clans at the 2005 Tacoma Highland Games