The Story of the Inverness Highland Games
A Proud History
The Inverness Highland Games are deeply rooted in the history of the city, with organised events taking place in various forms since the early 19th century. The first officially recorded Games, organised by the Northern Meeting, were held in 1837 on the Longman and were open to the public. Early competitions included heavy and field events, wrestling, sack and wheelbarrow races, and musket shooting.
As popularity grew, The Games evolved to include pony races, hurdles and steeplechases. Over the years, the venue moved several times, from Inverness Royal Academy to Bell’s Park, before settling in a purpose-built arena at Northern Meeting Park.
Although The Games paused during the 1930s, they were revived in 1947 as a community focused event open to all competitors. Since then, The Inverness Highland Games have continued to grow, guided by various local organisations and, since 2023, once again by The Highland Council.
Today, the Games remain a much loved highlight of the Inverness summer calendar, proudly celebrating tradition while welcoming new generations of competitors and visitors.
Roots of the Highland Games
Some believe the origins of the Highland Games can be traced back over a thousand years. One of the earliest recorded events dates to the 11th century, when King Malcolm III is said to have organised a race to the summit of Craig Choinnich near Braemar to identify the fastest runner, a role to become the King’s personal courier.
This blend of physical challenge, ceremony and community spirit still lies at the heart of Highland Games today.
What to Expect on Games Day
The Inverness Highland Games offer a full day of competition, culture and celebration in the heart of the city.
Opening Ceremony
The Opening Ceremony takes place at noon and marks the official start of the Games. Featuring pipe bands and ceremonial traditions, it signals the arrival of the Games Chieftain and sets the tone for the day ahead.
The Sound of Pipes & the Swirl of Tartan
The sound of the Great Highland bagpipes has echoed across Scotland for centuries, originally used to lead clans into battle and later to mark ceremonies, gatherings, and celebrations. Deeply woven into Highland history, piping became a powerful symbol of identity and resilience, passed down through generations of musicians.
Throughout the day, the air will be filled with the unmistakable skirl of the pipes at Inverness Highland Games. Enjoy stirring solo performances alongside a full pipe and drums march, showcasing the very best of Highland tradition. With competitions in Piobaireachd, March, Strathspey & Reel, this is one of the most prestigious piping events in the North of Scotland.
Heavy Events – A Unique Challenge
The Heavy Events are always a highlight. Athletes compete in classic feats of strength including hammer throw, weight over the bar and caber tossing.
One of the most talked-about challenges is the Inverness Stonemason’s Stone Challenge — a 252lb stone lifted cleanly over a bar suspended five feet in the air. Fewer than a dozen competitors have ever completed this challenge.
Highland Dancing
Originating centuries ago, Highland Dancing is thought to have begun as a way for warriors to demonstrate strength, agility, and readiness for battle. Dances such as the Sword Dance symbolised skill and good fortune, while over time these performances became a key part of celebrations and gatherings, helping to preserve Highland identity through generations.
Today, Highland dancing is a highly skilled and competitive discipline, celebrated at events across Scotland and beyond. At The Inverness Highland Games, spectators can enjoy a full day of Highland dancing competitions, featuring iconic dances such as the traditional Highland Fling, Sword Dance, and lively reels. From young beginners to seasoned competitors, the dancing showcases both the rich heritage and the vibrant, living tradition of Highland culture.
Track & Field
Speed and agility take centre stage in the track and field events, with races, jumps and throws taking place throughout the day. Open to competitors of all ages and abilities, these events showcase both elite talent and community participation.
Inverness Highland Games
Record Holders
Some records at the Inverness Highland Games have stood for more than 40 years.
Will 2026 be the year a new chapter is written?
Men’s 4 x 100m Relay
T. Leighton, N. Fraser, D. Chisholm, C. Bonnington
45 seconds (1984)
Men’s 100m
Alan Wells
10.5 seconds (1987)
Men’s 200m
Alan Wells
22.2 seconds (1987)
Women’s 200m
Jayne Lakeland
25.9 seconds (1981)
Women’s Long Jump
Shirley Dick
5.40 metres (1981)
Women’s 4 x 100m Relay
Heather MacLeod, Jane Lakeland, Sandra MacDonald, Maureen MacLeod
50.9 seconds (1981)
More Than Just A Competition
The Inverness Highland Games is much more than a sporting event. Beyond the competitions, there is a full programme of entertainment and experiences to explore.
From live traditional music and pipe bands to a lively programme of family entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. A dedicated family area offers plenty to keep younger visitors entertained, while the local market showcases the work of Highland makers, crafters and traders. Throughout the day, you can also taste the very best food and drink the Highlands has to offer.
The Inverness Highland Games Committee
The Inverness Highland Games are delivered by a dedicated committee supported by partners, sponsors and volunteers.
2026 Committee
• Chairman: Angus Dick
• Chieftain: Councillor Glynis Sinclair, Provost of Inverness
• City Manager: David Haas
• Scorer: John Findlayson
• ASN Sport: Charlie Forbes
• Commentator: Willie Cameron
• Civic Co-ordinator: Scott Taylor
• Event Manager: Kim Rait
With sincere thanks to the Inverness Common Good Fund, the City of Inverness Area Events and Festivals Working Group, the Elizabeth Fraser School of Highland Dancing, the Inverness Piping Society, and all our event partners, contractors, volunteers, performers, judges and competitors — whose dedication, passion and hard work come together to make The Inverness Highland Games such a special celebration year after year.