The Stirling Highland Games is the areas flagship outdoor sporting celebration of Scottish heritage, delivering a high-impact day of tradition, competition, and community at the heart of one of Scotland’s most historic cities. Set against the iconic backdrop of Stirling, this established event brings together athletes, performers, clans, and visitors from around 50 visiting nations in a format that has stood the test of time, and continues to deliver strong value for audiences year after year.
At its core, our traditional Games showcase elite Highland athletics, with competitors from across Scotland and beyond contesting classic heavy events such as the caber toss, hammer throw, and shot putt. These are not demonstrations – they are serious contests, run to professional standards, and consistently draw top-tier talent. Included in the athletics programme is competitive Highland dancing, track and field and Stirling’s exclusive Stirling Stones competition, all requiring focus and discipline whilst wrapped in cultural authenticity.
Beyond the games field we provide a well-rounded visitor experience including a massive traders village and a creative arts schedule. Our Traders Village can include clans, crafters, and food vendors with several street food trucks and bars offering top quality Scottish fayre. Our creative arts schedule can include live battle demos, Scotland Talks sessions, live music and more. Groups, families, history enthusiasts, and international visitors all find clear value propositions, from hands-on engagement to premium spectator viewing.
Visitor feedback of the Stirling Highland Games is that its efficiently run and designed to deliver a full day of entertainment without unnecessary complexity. It balances respect for tradition with modern visitor interests, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience for first-time attendees and returning supporters alike.
For anyone seeking a genuine, authentic Scottish cultural experience—executed with professionalism and pride—the Stirling Highland Games is a great choice worth making.
Stirling is a great base to explore Scotland from, with local villages and towns like Bridge of Allan and Dunblane only a 10 minute drive away. You can also take a day trip to the breathtaking Loch Lomond & the Trossachs, which is only a 30-minute drive away, or jump on a train to Edinburgh or Glasgow.