Summer is an incredible time to visit Scotland, and spring is one of the most budget-friendly seasons to visit. The weather is lovely, the days are long, and plenty of festivals and events are being held across the country. The Highland Games, which begin in the spring and continue through early autumn, are a particularly wonderful tradition. According to one of our favorite European travel experts, Rick Steves, they’re well worth attending during your trip to Scotland.
If you’ve ever dreamed of planning the perfect trip to Europe, then chances are you may have a Rick Steves Europe guidebook sitting on your bookshelf. Rick Steves visited Europe for the first time as a teenager and discovered a lifelong passion for travel that would blossom into an incredible career. Over the years he’s published multiple bestselling guidebooks, hosted a popular travel-themed television program, and started a business that takes thousands of travelers to Europe on group tours each year.
Rick Steves has been exploring the continent for over 40 years, so it’s easy to understand why so many travelers trust his recommendations when planning their dream vacations to Scotland. In an article on his website he called the country, “rugged, colorful, and feisty,” and in another post he described the Highland region as the “most scenic and romantic part of Scotland.” He recommends prioritizing the stunning destinations you’ll find there, and attending the Highland Games. If you’re in search of authentic Scottish culture and tradition, take the advice of Rick Steves and add this experience to your Scotland itinerary.
Scottish tradition in the Highlands
Attending the Highland Games
The Highland Games kickoff in May. The Gourock Highland Games are the first of the season. Events usually take place on the weekends and last a full day. July and August are the busiest, with more than 30 different events per month.
The Braemar Gathering is one of the most iconic events to attend. It’s been held for around 200 years. Each year, around 16,000 people attend the games. In 1848, Queen Victoria attended, and it’s been frequented by members of the U.K.’s Royal Family ever since. A few more popular events include the Perth Highland Games, the Crieff Highland Games, the Cowal Highland Gathering, the Atholl Gathering, the Bridge of Allan Games, and the Strathmore Highland Games. Rick Steves encourages visitors to check out the less popular Highland Games as well. “Rather than target the big famous gatherings, I’d make a point of visiting the smaller clan games,” Steves suggested on his website. During a recent trip he attended the games in the town of Kenmore, and considered himself lucky to be there.
Watch locals displaying their strength in competitions that involve throwing a variety of objects like logs, stones, and hammers. You can also enjoy traditional Scottish music like bagpipes and drums, as well as Scottish dancing. Agriculture and livestock are an important part of the Highland Games, so expect to see plenty of adorable Highland Cows. Dine on traditional food like haggis, and admire the works of local artisans who sell everything from leather goods to jewelry. Many highland games also have fascinating displays of weapons like swords and knives created by skilled blacksmiths.
