The annual Aberdeen Highland Games are on the 1st Saturday in July each year. This year will be the weekend of the 6th July, 2024. The day will begin with a parade of pipe bands, clan representatives and others. This leads into the Massed Band Salute and Chieftain’s Address that officially open the day. Pipe bands are what make a Scottish event so special. The unique sounds of the massed pipes and drums fill the air, as bands converge from all around New South Wales at the Aberdeen Highland Games. Nothing encompasses such enthusiasm and colour as Highland Dancing.
And what better sight and sound can there be, that encapsulates the very essence of Scotland, than the bagpipes accompanying a Highland dancer, kilt swaying and feet moving to traditional airs! The young and old can take part in the novelty events, whether it be the three-legged races or the famed Kilted Dash. Everyone is encouraged to dress up in their best Scottish attire, with prizes awarded to the best dressed laddie, lassie, bairn and even dog! The Kilted Warriors are a great part of the event, with a traditional Celtic strongman competition. There is tremendous strength and determination on display when the athletes compete in three events – the lifting of the Stones of Destiny, the Sheaf Toss and the Caber Toss.
Further, the Games anticipate that the Australian Defence Force/ADF Federation Guard Drill Team will be with us again this year and they are a great spectacle not to be missed. A multitude of stores and stands will surround the arena, selling all manner of Scottish heirlooms and souvenirs, clothing and garb, and food and drink to complete your day. There will be a good roll up of Clan Societies, and these are of great help to those chasing family circles. In the evening, the NSW Pipe Band Association have organised a Pipe Band Quintet competition at the Aberdeen RSL Club and hosted by the Tamworth Pipe Band.
For details go to the web site www.aberdeenhighlandgames.com or visit the Facebook page. All bookings are on line via this web site. For further detail go to [email protected].