Festivities in Scotland

Highland Games
The Highland (area with mountains/ hills) games consist in a series of traditional athletic
competitions, that begin in May and finish in September. These events take place on the
weekends and occur in outdoor spaces across the country.

This tradition was originally created as a contest, in the 11th century, during the reign of king
Malcolm III, with the purpose of finding the fastest and strongest man who could be the king’s
servant. Nowadays the highland games are all about enjoying the season.

One of the reasons why this festivity remains so popular, and part of the Scotland’s culture are
the sporting events, such as:

 Caber toss
 Hammer throw
 Shot put
 Weight for height
 Tug o’war
 Hill race

There is also bagpipe processions, dancing as well as live music.

Curiosities:

Until the late 19th century, only man could participate on the dancing events.

During these months there are some special occasions where the members of the British Royal
Family are usually in attendance.

This event was so memorable and impressive that the founder of the Olympics games,
included the “hammer throw” and the “shot put” in it.

The skirts they wear on these games are named kilts