Saturday 16th August 2025
Stirling Highland Games and International Gathering
Stirling Highland Games
Welcome to the Official Home of the Stirling Highland Games and International Gathering. It’s a cherished annual cultural sporting extravaganza nestled in the heart of central Scotland. Stirling is a great base to explore Scotland from with Bridge of Allan & Dunblane nearby. You can also have days out to the breathtaking Loch Lomond & the Trossachs which is only a 30-minute drive; or slightly further to Edinburgh or Glasgow.
The Gathering
Our International Gathering can draw in a vibrant crowd of up to 8000 visitors each year with our transformative event offering you a Great Day Out, seamlessly blending tradition, athletic competition, and entertainment. Beyond the thrilling competitions, Stirling Highland Games stands as a beacon of support for our selected good cause, doubling as a hands-on learning experience for young people.
The History
We can now trace the roots of our Highland Games back to 1818. The Stirling Chapmen first introduced Highland pursuits such as ‘Tilting at the Ring,’ ‘Foot Races,’ and ‘Horse Races.’ Today, we proudly showcase a myriad of traditional Highland games, from the iconic heavyweights including the caber toss to the elegant Highland dancing; from the track & field to the para-athletes competing in the Adaptive Heavyweights competition, captivating spectators with the strength, determination and skill on full display.
The Location
Set within Stirling Sports Village, our games field offers amazing panoramic views of the National Wallace Monument, Cambuskenneth Abbey, and Stirling Castle. As proud members of the Royal Scottish Highland Games Association, we curate a full schedule of competitions including Athletics, Youth Running, Cycling, and Heavyweights with more details on our What’s On page.
Stirling Highland Games is not merely an athletic event; it’s a Festival-style Day Out for the entire family so why not make a weekend of it in Stirling? You can wander through our Traders Village, a bustling marketplace featuring artisan food and drink producers alongside quality market traders. Engage in an immersive Heritage Walking Tour, explore and see some Creative Arts performances, and let the little ones have a go in the Activities Challenge area.
Explore Stirling
Stirling Highland Games is not merely an athletic event; it’s a Festival-style Day Out for the entire family so why not make a weekend of it in Stirling? You can wander through our Traders Village, a bustling marketplace featuring artisan food and drink producers alongside quality market traders. Engage in an immersive Heritage Walking Tour, explore and see some Creative Arts performances, and let the little ones have a go in the Activities Challenge area.
The Stirling Stones
Exclusive to the Stirling Highland Games is the Bruce Challenge, a test of strength, endurance, and agility that separates the mightiest athletes from the rest. Encourage participants as they strive to carry a Scottish Whin and a Scottish Granite boulder the furthest distance weighing in at a mighty 164.5kg.
The Caledonian Forest
As stewards of the environment, our committee is committed to helping reduce carbon emissions. Join us in our eco-conscious efforts by planting a tree in the Ceangail Grove, situated in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.
Purchase Your Tickets
Purchase your Highland Games tickets now and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of tradition, athleticism, and community spirit at the Stirling Highland Games—the epitome of a Scottish cultural celebration.
Countdown to SHG 2025
Whats On at The Games
SATURDAY 17TH AUGUST 2024
Find out what’s on at this year’s event on August 17th so you can plan for your weekend in Stirling.
“On behalf of the Stirling Highland Games Committee, we look forward to welcoming you all to our highland games event and trust you will have an amazing experience in one of Scotland’s most historical cities.”
Matt McGrandles, Stirling Highland Games President
2013 to present
Upcoming Events
Saturday 17th August 2024
Plan ahead for our 2024 event on Saturday 17th August.Find out Whats On and make a weekend of it in Stirling.
Saturday 16th August 2025
Plan ahead for our 2025 event on Saturday 16th August.Please get in touch with any questions you may have.
Visit Scotland
SATURDAY 17TH AUGUST 2024
You won’t get any argument from the Stirling Highland Games Committee here. Your visit to Scotland will be epic and Stirling should definetely be on your to-visit list when you are here.
Quick Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Find out if your question is here otherwise please get in touch with our secretary.
Competitor Entry
Find out more about how you can compete at Stirling Highland Games this year.