15 Tips for Enjoying Highland Games & Festivals
- Check the event’s web site before going in case they have an online/downloadable program, guide to parking and amenities, a map, etc.
- Arrive early.
- Bring a backpack.
- Hydrate!
- Wear sun screen and bring a hat.
- Dress in, or at least bring along layers.
- Bring cash.
Do you have to wear a kilt in the Highland Games?
Kilts are still a key symbol of Scottish culture and also feature heavily in the Highland Games. Rules set out by the Scottish Highland Games Association state that all those who take part in open heavy events must wear kilts while competing.
What 3 things do the Highland Games consist of?
Highland Games are as iconically Scottish as bagpipes, kilts and whisky – all of which feature heavily at any gathering.
What is Highlands dress code?
Students are expected to wear smart casual trousers or a skirt/dress of reasonable length with a shirt, blouse, polo or t-shirt, a jumper or cardigan if required and appropriate footwear. Smart jeans and smart trainers are acceptable.
What is Highland dress for ladies?
Traditionally, women and girls do not wear kilts but may wear ankle-length tartan skirts, along with a colour-coordinated blouse and vest. A tartan earasaid, sash or tonnag (smaller shawl) may also be worn, usually pinned with a brooch, sometimes with a clan badge or other family or cultural motif.
Should you tuck your shirt into a kilt?
All shirts should be tucked into the kilt for a neat look. Dress shirts are the more formal option of the two. This look would normally be styled with a bow tie or tie.
What tartan Can I wear if I’m not Scottish?
What Tartan Can You Wear if You Have No Scottish Heritage? Luckily, for those with no Scottish blood or ancestry, there are universal tartans and non-clan tartans they can wear. These types of tartan include Highland Granite, Isle of Skye and Black Watch.
What food is served at the Highland Games?
Whether haggis or hot dogs, funnel cake or shortbread, the varied vendors will have everything you need to keep your strength up for the Games.
How long do the Highland Games last?
Scotland’s Highland games are usually one-day events taking place in outdoor spaces across the country.
Which is the best Highland Games in Scotland?
The Braemar Gathering, held in September, is the biggest and most prestigious Highland Games event and enjoys the annual attendance of the Royal Family. Its origins are Royal too.
How heavy is the caber toss?
The caber toss is a traditional Antigonish Highland Games Heavy Event. Competitors toss a large tapered pole called a “caber”, usually a Larch (juniper) tree approximately 19 feet 6 inches (5.94 m) tall and weighs 175 pounds (79 kg).
Do the Highland Games have weight classes?
There are actually two separate events, one using a light (28 lb for men and 14 lb for women) and the other a heavy (56 lb for men, 42 lb for masters men, and 28 lb for women) weight. The weights are made of metal and have a handle attached either directly or by means of a chain.
What time does the Highland Games start?
Bridge of Allan Highland Games will start from 10am, with events continuing throughout the day untill around 5.30pm. You will find the programme of events below.
Can I wear jeans in Scotland?
Hiking/rain pants – Again, jeans are usually fine for everyday wear, unless you’re doing some hiking. If you’re planning on hiking, bring a pair of specialized pants: Men / Women.
Do people dress up for Highland Games?
Athletic competitors at Highland Games sporting events, particularly the heavy events, wear sports or tank shirts (or none) with kilts, kilt stockings and sports shoes. They seldom wear a sporran on the field as it gets in the way of the caber etc.
How much does full Highland dress cost?
For a full brand-new kilt outfit, it will run from $1500 upwards.
What is the female equivalent of a kilt?
earasaid
Traditionally speaking, the kilt was a highland garment made and worn only by men. Highland women would wear an earasaid, which was a draped garment that was either a belted plaid or unbelted wrap. A traditional earasaid would have either been plain, striped or tartan but this would have been dependent on cost.
What is a ladies kilt called?
An earasaid, or arasaid is a draped garment worn in Scotland as part of traditional female highland dress. It may be a belted plaid (literally, a belted blanket), or an unbelted wrap.
Why do they wear skirts in Scotland?
Its Origins. Known as the Scottish national dress, kilts are recognised the world over. A symbol of patriotism and national identity, they have deep-seated cultural and historical roots. Across the globe, Scottish people proudly sport kilts as a tribute to their heritage.
Can you wear normal socks with a kilt?
Socks should be worn just below knee level (2-3 finger widths below your kneecap is a good guide) Socks should also be turned over at the top.
Can you wear normal shoes with a kilt?
The shoes that are most commonly worn with kilts are the Ghillie Brogues, which are worn just like a regular shoe, but the laces should be wrapped around the ankles before they are tied in front. Though just about any shoe or boot can be worn with a kilt.