Discovering Scotland
What's On | Discovering Scotland
At Stirling Highland Games, we love to give our visitors more than just a great day out. That’s why we curate a vibrant programme of creative arts and cultural experiences designed to entertain, inspire and celebrate Scotland’s rich heritage.
Each year, we showcase a variety of artistic disciplines and cultural activities that spark conversation, encourage learning and bring people together. From traditional storytelling and heritage interpretation to contemporary performances and interactive experiences, there’s always something new to discover.
This year, we’re excited to introduce an enhanced Discovering Scotland programme featuring captivating artist performances, fascinating heritage talks, and engaging cultural experiences for all ages. Whether you’re passionate about Scottish history, interested in the arts, or simply looking to enjoy something different during your visit, you’ll find plenty to explore throughout the day.
Discover, experience and celebrate Scotland with us at Stirling Highland Games.
Creative Arts and Cultural Experiences
Timings | 10:00 to 17:00
Location | Discovering Scotland
Discover Stirling
Our Discover Stirling marquee houses both our tartan shop as well as the Scotland Talks Sessions during the day.
You can find out more about Stirling’s history dating back to 1818 when the 1st Highland Games were held.
The Stirling Highland Games tartan was created in 2020 by our President and will make an excellent souvenir of the day, as well as something to wear when you attend future Gatherings.
Timings | 11:00
Duration | 20 mins
Payment needed | No
Location | Discover Stirling marquee
Stirling Rock Choir
Led by local choir leader Rachel Leitch, Stirling Rock Choir has been bringing people together through the power of singing for the past 16 years. As part of the UK’s original contemporary choir movement, Stirling Rock Choir welcomes singers of all abilities, with no auditions and no requirement to read music.
The choir is known for its warm atmosphere where friendship, community spirit and a shared love of music are at the heart of everything they do. Members come from all walks of life and enjoy not only the joy of singing but also the many wellbeing
benefits that come from being part of a supportive musical community.
Timings | 11:40, 13:30, 15:30, 16:40
Duration – 20 mins
Payment needed | No
Location | Games Field
Caledonian Pipe Band
The Caledonian Pipe is based in Edinburgh. Formed in 2008 by a group of friends with a shared devotion to the Scotland football team, the band has grown into an enthusiastic mix of youth and experience.
Their repertoire of traditional tunes delivered with a modern twist, has graced international stages. Highlights include a 10th-anniversary journey to Croatia and multiple trips to France celebrating a Franco-Scottish Alliance.
Led by Pipe Major Alasdair Laurie and Leading Drummer Holly Green, the band is non-competing and built entirely on social, inclusive principles. Proudly wearing the Deuchars IPA tartan, they maintain an historic affiliation with the iconic Caledonian Brewery.
Timings | from 11:00 and throughout the day
Duration | 15 to 20 mins
Payment needed | No
Location | Borrowmeadow Farm Road
Heritage Tour
Stirling Highland Games provides our visitors with a complimentary on-site Heritage Tour as part of our creative arts offering.
These take place throughout the day during the event so make sure you don’t miss out. We want to share part of our Scottish history with you, as the highland games site provides great views of Cambuskenneth Abbey, The National Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle.
Join one of our tours, led by our guides as well as Stirling’s very own archeologist, Dr Murray Cook.
Timings | 13:00 and 15:00
Duration | 20 mins
Payment needed | No
Location | Discover Stirling marquee
Stirling Gaelic Choir
We will be welcoming back the Stirling Gaelic Choir who will be looking to share their amazing live performances with you several times throughout the day.
The Choir will be singing a mix of songs from their repertoire of Gaelic music, including fast-paced Puirt a Beul style tunes, modern songs written by the MacDonald brothers of Celtic folk/rock group Runrig and older traditional songs.
We are delighted to bring them on board to showcase the beautiful Gaelic language in song, and an amazing memory you will be able to take away with you.
Stirling Gaelic Choir was founded in 1948 and could more realistically be called the Central Scotland Gaelic Choir, as its 40 plus members travel to rehearsals from Balfron to Glenrothes, Bonnybridge to Crieff, and all parts in between.
Timings | From 11:00
Duration | 20 mins
Payment Needed | No
Location | Discover Stirling Marquee
Historia Normannis
Join Historia Normannis in bring history to life. Learn about medieval Stirling from the lowliest levy to the noblest knight, watch as the generals literally beat the new troops into shape! Then cheer on the skilled fighters as they pit their skills against each other to win a tournament of skill.
Timings | TBC
Duration | 20 to 30 mins
Payment | £15 per talk session
Location | Discover Stirling Marquee
Scotland Talks
Scotland Talks is a short series of talks about Scotland, its heritage, and its culture, which we aim to bring to life this games weekend for visitors to enjoy.
This experience will incur an additional fee, with 30 tickets available for purchase for each session from the Discover Stirling marquee on the day.
- Gary Lawrie’s talk on Scottish Ancestry
- Dr Murray Cook’s talk on where exactly was the Battle of Bannockburn
- Alan ‘Islay’ Carmichael’s talk on Arygll and Sutherland Highlanders
- Mike Naismith’s talk on the history of bagpipes
- Ken Thomson’s talk on if Stones could speak
Timings | 11:30 to 14:30
Duration | 10 mins
Payment | donations welcome
Location | Traders Village [entrance]
Face Painting
Are you looking to transform into a clan warrior or maybe just a butterfly? Our face painters will be on site again for the younger generation to enjoy.
Party Face Painting is a small group of talented artists delivering great face painting services across central Scotland. With over a decade of experience and a dynamic team, we not only prioritise creativity but also pride ourselves on being friendly and reliable.
We look forward to seeing you all soon, bringing our amazing face painting experience to life for you to enjoy and have fun.
There can be queues here, so please be patient if you have to wait.