Editorial – The Scottish Banner Says….

June 2026 (Vol. 49, Number 12)

Highland Games a social glue for Scottish culture around the world

It would be impossible to be a regular reader of the Scottish Banner and not see a Highland Games, Gathering or Scottish festival mentioned within these pages.

For five decades we have highlighted Scottish events right across the world, in fact most of the events found in our pages are taking place quite far from Scotland itself, but their spirit and celebration of Scottish identity and tradition are the same as those that take place in Scotland.

Highland Games connoisseur

I not sure what makes a ‘Highland Games connoisseur’ but I have attended hundreds of Highland Games across the world and have grown up and witnessed these special community events which bring so many together. Some may be surprised to learn just how many take place around the world, a visit to our website could have you booked up until next year attending events near and far as we list events across five countries and our listings are added to weekly. Jump online, find an event and plan to take part!

The Highland Games trace their roots to ancient clan gatherings, where contests of strength, music, and dance were woven into social and political life. Events like the caber toss, hammer throw, and tug-of-war symbolized not only physical prowess but also the unity and pride of the clans. Over centuries, these games evolved into organised festivals that celebrated and nurtured Scottish strength, performance and culture. Queen Victoria’s patronage at the Braemar Gathering in 1848 elevated them from local tradition to a national event. This royal endorsement helped export the Games abroad, where emigrant Scots carried their customs to new and far-flung communities.

A melting pot of Scottish culture at one location

For Scots who settled overseas— whether in Canada, the United States, Australia, or New Zealand—the Games became a way to maintain connection with their homeland. They offered a tangible link to ancestry, language, and musicnot just for those born Scots who moved far away but also for those generations born after. Scottish festivals bring together an array of people who participate in various aspects of Scottish culture who all come together to make an incredible event. From pipers and drummers, to dancers, entertainers, Clans and society members, reenactors and more drawing both Scots and non-Scots alike.

In fact, the Scottish Banner was launched at a Highland Games back in 1976 and more on that next month! Attend one of these great events today and you really can experience a melting pot of Scottish culture at one location. Today these gatherings blend athletic, dance and music competition with clan tents, whisky tastings and ceilidhs, creating immersive experiences that truly connect people.

These events are a hotbed for the continuity of Scottish culture today and we are fortunate to have them as part of modern life. They help us not just showcase Scottish heritage, but keep the flame burning so people can enjoy their own pursuit of Scottish identity or simply enjoy participating in a traditional Scottish craft as people from all walks of life are invited and welcomed to be part.

In this issue

If you are ever in Edinburgh, especially during August, sometimes a retreat is needed. Holyrood Park is Edinburgh’s best back yard. It offers open space from lovely lawns to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano and the highest point in Edinburgh. It is also a place of history and legend as we learn more about in this issue.

Scotland has a long and bloody battle history and on June 23 & 24, 1314 the Battle of Bannockburn took place in Stirling. This was a defining moment in Scottish history when Robert the Bruce defeated the much larger English army under Edward II. Bannockburn has echoed in Scottish history and folklore ever since, and the David vs Goliath battle is today celebrated at the must-see Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre.

Showcases of Scotland

One thing I have noticed is many Scottish events seem to go from strength to strength; this is not a fad that was brought to lands which faded as the generations went on. People are still bringing their families today and these showcases of Scotland are evolving for the present day. They are celebrating not a historic relic of a culture but a vibrant and dynamic one and one we are lucky to have as our own.

So much thanks must go to the teams, of often volunteers, that work tirelessly to make the day go as smoothly as able. There are many hours devoted to each event and if you have or are planning to attend one perhaps leave a nice note on their social media or email to let them know their hard work is appreciated.

If you have not already, perhaps now is the time to make plans to attend a Highland Games? They provide a space where Scottish identity can be expressed, adapted, and shared with others. Those early pioneers of Scottish Games in Scotland would have never imagined places as far off as Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA would host events hundreds of years later with thousands of people from all walks of life attending.

I know many people who not only attend their local events but also plan to travel further afield to experience other events in our regions and even countries. There is an abundance of events taking place across the globe and I hope you too, if not already, also become a ‘Highland Games connoisseur’.

This month also sees Scotland return to the FIFA World Cup after nearly 30 years and will bring the nation to a standstill-good luck Scotland and we wish you all the success possible!

Do you have you any comments from the content in this month’s edition? Share your story with us by email, post, social media or at: www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us

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