Don’t Miss the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games 2025!

Have you ever heard the unmistakable wail of a bagpipe echoing through misty mountains? Imagine standing among hundreds of tartan-clad clans, with the scent of haggis in the air, the thunder of Highland drums in your chest, and the breathtaking peaks of North Carolina rising in the distance. This isn’t a dream—it’s the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games 2025, and it’s calling your name.

From July 10 to 13, 2025, MacRae Meadows will once again transform into a vibrant corner of the Scottish Highlands. This isn’t just another summer event; it’s a four-day immersion into one of the most storied cultural celebrations in the United States—the Highland Games at Grandfather Mountain. Whether you have Scottish blood or simply a heart that beats for history, heritage, and community, these games are your gateway to something unforgettable.

The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games' roots go far deeper than the kilted caber tosses and spirited dances you see today. Founded in 1956 by Agnes MacRae Morton and Donald F. MacDonald, the event was inspired by MacDonald's experience at the Royal Braemar Gathering in Scotland. The founders envisioned a stateside version that would not only honor Scottish heritage but rekindle it in North Carolina—a region with deep Highland roots.

Mark your calendars now: July 10 to 13, 2025, Thursday through Sunday.

The games take place in the awe-inspiring MacRae Meadows, nestled at the base of Grandfather Mountain NC in Linville. Surrounded by rolling peaks, forested ridges, and crisp summer air, there’s no better setting in the U.S. to host such a Scottish spectacle. Many attendees say it truly feels like standing in the Highlands of old.

Want even more mountain magic? Pair your Highland pride with outdoor adventure—hike the rugged trails or cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge during the Highland Games Grandfather Mountain for a once-in-a-lifetime weekend.

It all begins with fire.

On Thursday evening, as twilight falls, the Torch Light Ceremony at Grandfather Mountain officially kicks off the games. Torch-bearing representatives from over 100 clans gather in a solemn procession to announce their presence. It’s haunting, powerful, and deeply moving—a symbolic reunion of Scottish families from around the world. Goosebumps are practically guaranteed.

You’ve seen the memes. You’ve heard the legends. But seeing a man in a kilt actually throw a caber (a giant wooden log) in person? That’s next level.

The games feature classic events like:

• Scottish caber toss competition

• Hammer Throw

• Sheaf Toss

• Stone Put

• Weight Over Bar

And of course, there's the unforgettable Clan Tug of War —a crowd favorite where kilted teams from different clans lock arms and compete in a test of raw strength and unity. It’s part muscle, part clan pride. And when the tug of war begins, you’ll hear the cheers echo across the field as families give it everything they’ve got.

And don’t worry—these aren’t just for pros. The schedule includes amateur events, “Over 40” divisions, and youth-friendly exhibitions, ensuring everyone gets a chance to feel like a Highland warrior.

These aren’t just fun runs—they’re feats of endurance.

• The Bear: A 5-mile footrace up Grandfather Mountain, gaining 1,500 feet in elevation. Brutal? Yes. Beautiful? Absolutely.

• The Grandfather Marathon: A 26-mile route from Boone to the Games’ field, crossing both physical and metaphorical terrain as runners embrace Highland grit.

From the moment the games begin, MacRae Meadows pulses with Celtic sound. Bagpipe and fiddle competitions showcase the best talent from across the country, while three Celtic Groves fill the air daily with everything from traditional reels to modern rock fusion.

And when the sun sets? It’s time to party.

• Friday night features a crowd-pleasing Celtic Rock Concert

• Saturday night brings the electric Celtic Jam

No matter your vibe—traditional, rebellious, or somewhere in between—you’ll find your rhythm here.

Culture isn’t just something you watch—it’s something you join. The Ceilidh and Tartan Ball invite everyone to step onto the dance floor. No experience required—just enthusiasm and maybe a kilt.

Meanwhile, the Gaelic Mod celebrates the Scottish Gaelic language through song and recitation. It’s a rare and beautiful glimpse into a linguistic legacy that refuses to fade.

Worried the wee ones might get bored? Not a chance.

Children can join their own Caber Toss Clinic, run in mini races, and even try beginner-friendly Highland games. There’s live music, fun Highland dancing, and sheepdogs so cute they’ll make you laugh. And for the kids? Clan tents are the perfect spot to learn where they come from.

MacRae Meadows is spacious, grassy, and family-friendly. It’s not just a festival—it’s a playground for all ages at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.

Whether your name is MacDonald, Campbell, Fraser —or something you’ve always suspected had Scottish roots—this is one of the largest Scottish clan gatherings in the U.S.

Clan tents are hosted by representatives ready to share genealogy insights, welcome you into their associations, and help you find your family tartan, crest, and deeper identity. This is your opportunity to turn curiosity into community.

Hungry? Curious? Ready to shop?

Satisfy your cravings with classic Scottish fare like haggis, bridies, fish and chips, and buttery shortbread. Craving more? Try Scotch eggs, meat pies, and warm shepherd’s pie that feels like a hug from the Highlands. Wash it all down with Irn-Bru, Scotland’s beloved fizzy orange drink. While clan tents focus on heritage and family ties, the vendor area is all about flavor and flair.

And when it comes to souvenirs? It’s a marketplace of Scottish delight: think kilts, bagpipes, swords, handmade jewelry, Highland honey, Scottish teas, and Cadbury chocolates —plus rare imports you won’t find anywhere else.

You’ll be tempted at every tent—and honestly, we won’t blame you if you go home with a whole tartan wardrobe.

Grandfather Mountain Highland Games tickets can be purchased online at gmhg.org or directly at the entrance if available. Here’s the breakdown:

• Thursday: $20 (Adults), $10 (Children 5–12)

• Friday: $30 (Adults)

• Saturday: $35 (Adults)

• Sunday: $20 (Adults)

• Children under 5: Free

• Adult 4-day pass: $75

Note: Tickets are not sold through Grandfather Mountain Park’s regular entrance gate. Get them early—Saturday sells out fast!

Planning to go? Here’s what seasoned attendees know:

• Bring cash. Some vendors don’t take cards.

• No pets allowed, so leave your furry pals at home.

• Bring chairs, blankets, coolers —but not tents.

• Arrive early, especially on Saturday. It’s the busiest day.

• Friday and Sunday are great for smaller crowds.

• The weather can be unpredictable—pack layers and a rain poncho, just in case.

• Accommodation tip: Nearby towns like Boone, Blowing Rock, and Banner Elk offer everything from rustic cabins to modern hotels. Book early—lodging fills up fast during the games!

What to wear to the Highland Games? Think tartan—because it’s not just welcome, it’s expected. Whether you’re repping your clan or just loving the look, kilts, tartan shirts, hoodies, tartan caps, and accessories are all fair game. July in the North Carolina mountains can mean warm days and breezy evenings, so layers are smart.

Coming as a team? We offer special deals for groups, because nothing says Highland pride like matching tartan.

So, are you ready?

The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games 2025 aren’t just an event—they’re a homecoming, a history lesson, and a heart-thumping celebration rolled into one. Whether you’re tracking down your clan roots, snapping photos of the sheepdogs, or dancing under the stars to Celtic rock, you’ll feel something special here.

It’s where stories come to life, traditions are passed down, and strangers become kin. This is a true Scottish ancestry celebration in NC.

Join us this July. Let the pipes call you home.