New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival: Celebrates Scottish culture with athletic competitions

The New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival is an annual event that takes place in the town of Lincoln in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. The festival, which has been held since 1975, celebrates Scottish culture through a variety of activities including athletic competitions, music and dance performances, food and drink, and educational presentations.

Athletic Competitions

One of the highlights of the New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival is the athletic competitions, which are based on traditional Scottish Highland Games events. These events include the caber toss, the hammer throw, the weight over bar, and the stone put, among others. Athletes from all over the world come to compete in these events, showcasing their strength, agility, and skill.

Music and Dance Performances

In addition to the athletic competitions, the festival also features a wide variety of live music and dance performances. Visitors can enjoy traditional Scottish pipe bands, Celtic rock bands, and highland dancers, as well as other forms of traditional Scottish music and dance. These performances provide a lively and festive atmosphere that adds to the overall experience of the festival.

Food and Drink

No festival would be complete without delicious food and drink, and the New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival does not disappoint. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional Scottish fare including haggis, meat pies, and shortbread, as well as more familiar festival foods like hot dogs and ice cream. There is also a wide selection of beverages available, including beer, wine, and traditional Scottish whisky.

Educational Presentations

For those interested in learning more about Scottish culture and history, the festival offers a number of educational presentations and demonstrations. These may include talks on Scottish history and folklore, demonstrations of traditional Scottish crafts and skills, and discussions of the significance of various aspects of Scottish culture. These presentations provide a valuable opportunity for visitors to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Scotland and its traditions.

Conclusion

The New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival is a unique and exciting event that celebrates Scottish culture in a fun and engaging way. Whether you are interested in watching athletic competitions, enjoying live music and dance performances, sampling traditional Scottish cuisine, or learning more about Scottish history and culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this festival. The festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich and vibrant traditions of Scotland right here in the United States.

FAQs

When is the New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival held?

The festival is held annually in mid-September, usually over the course of a weekend. Check the official festival website for exact dates and times each year.

Are pets allowed at the festival?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the festival with the exception of service animals. Please make other arrangements for your pets when planning to attend the event.