Stone Mountain, Georgia, October 19, 2025
News Summary
The 53rd annual Highland Games and Scottish Festival drew around 25,000 attendees to Stone Mountain Park this past weekend. The event celebrated Scottish culture through athletics, dance, music, and food, with participants showcasing traditional attire. Highlights included the Atlanta Pipe Band winning multiple competitions. The festival serves as a gathering point for those interested in Scottish heritage in the southern United States.
Stone Mountain, Georgia
The 53rd annual Highland Games and Scottish Festival attracted approximately 25,000 people to Stone Mountain Park over the weekend. This event is a celebration of Scottish culture featuring athletics, dance, cuisine, and music.
Participants dressed in traditional Scottish attire, including kilts and gathered beneath colorful tartan banners. The event was marked by the ceremonial wail of bagpipes and the enticing aroma of meat pies wafting through the air.
The festival offers a platform for showcasing the rich heritage of Scotland, particularly in the southern United States. Attendees enjoyed various competitions throughout the weekend, including traditional Scottish athletics, dancing, as well as events in drumming and piping.
Highlights from the Event
Among the key achievements, the Atlanta Pipe Band excelled by winning both the Grade Three and Grade Four competitions, also earning the title of “Band of the Games.” The gates opened for attendees at 9 a.m. on Sunday, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant displays of Scottish culture.
This Highland Games festival has grown in popularity over its 53 years of operation, attracting a diverse audience eager to engage with Scottish traditions. The combination of athletic competition, musical performances, and authentic cuisine creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration among participants and attendees alike.
Background on the Highland Games
The Highland Games are a series of events that reflect the history and culture of the Scottish Highlands. They typically include various athletic contests, including activities such as the caber toss, hammer throw, and tug-of-war. These games often symbolize strength, tradition, and community spirit.
The Highland Games and Scottish Festival at Stone Mountain Park not only serve as a gathering for clans and individuals to celebrate their heritage but also attract visitors curious about Scottish culture, ensuring a continued appreciation for this unique tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Highland Games and Scottish Festival?
The Highland Games celebrate the culture, competitions, and camaraderie of the Scottish Highlands.
How many people attended the festival?
Approximately 25,000 people attended the festival, according to event organizers.
When did the festival take place?
The 53rd annual Highland Games and Scottish Festival took place at Stone Mountain Park on Saturday and Sunday.
What did the festival include?
The event included traditional Scottish athletics, dancing, cuisine, and competitions in drumming and piping.
Which band won the music competition?
The Atlanta Pipe Band won both the Grade Three and Grade Four competitions, also being named “Band of the Games.”
Key Features of the Highland Games and Scottish Festival
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Stone Mountain Park, Georgia |
| Attendance | Approximately 25,000 people |
| Duration | Two days (Saturday and Sunday) |
| Main Attractions | Traditional Scottish athletics, dance, cuisine, drumming, and piping competitions |
| Award Winning Band | Atlanta Pipe Band – won both Grade Three and Grade Four competitions |
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Additional Resources
- AJC: 53rd Annual Highland Games and Scottish Festival
- Wikipedia: Highland Games
- Axios: Atlanta Events
- Google Search: Scottish culture
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Highland Games and Scottish Festival
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Scotland
- Discover Atlanta: Things to Do
- Google News: Highland Games
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