Nowhere else will you see world-class pipers, dancers and athletes competing on such a scale. It’s an unbeatable event for all the family. Just ask the 23,000 visitors who go there every year to soak up the unique, friendly atmosphere and stunning Highland location. First held in 1894, the event is steeped in history. It celebrates the rich tradition, but have added lots of new elements too.
There really is something for everyone, from watching the world championship competitions to running in the 5K fun run. The salute to the Chieftain is one of the highlights. As the sun sets down the Firth of Clyde, the massed pipers and drummers play ‘Highland Laddie’ in unison. It’s an unforgettable experience and a fitting end to this, the most spectacular of Highland games.
2022 will once again bring a huge range of family attractions to the Cowal Gathering, already one of the most spectacular highland games in the world. With its mix of highland dancing, pipe bands, wrestling, heavy athletics, solo piping, drum majors, ceilidh, children’s entertainment, fun run and local food, there’s something for everyone at the Cowal Gathering.
If you’ve never visited before and can only manage one day, then come on Saturday. Watch the top highland dancers in the world compete in the finals of the World Highland Dancing Championship, listen to the pipe bands battle it out in the Cowal Pipe Band Championship and cheer on the world’s best heavy athletes as they toss the caber. You can also catch top live Scottish music in the Ceilidh Tent. To round off the day, witness the spine-tingling salute to the Chieftain. The sound of a thousand pipers and drummers playing in unison will stay with you forever.
