Monthly Guide

July 2026

Every summer, the sound of pipes, the swirl of tartan and the unmistakable sight of a caber turning through the air bring Scottish communities together. Highland Games may be famous for feats of strength, but their real power lies in something greater: keeping Scottish music, dance, sport, family history and community traditions alive.

June 2026 August 2026

Feb 26 Mar 26 Apr 26 May 26 Jun 26 Jul 26 Aug 26 Sep 26 Oct 26 Nov 26 Dec 26 Jan 27

Scottish Heritage This Month

More Than Cabers: The Living Heritage of the Highland Games

The caber toss may get most of the attention, but Highland Games are about much more than impressive displays of strength. For generations, these gatherings have brought Scottish culture to life through piping, Highland dancing, athletic competitions, clan history, traditional food and plenty of tartan. Today, Highland Games take place across Scotland and throughout Scottish communities around the world. They are places to reconnect with family heritage, discover a new tradition or simply spend the day enjoying music, competition and community. Whether you come for the pipes, the dancing, the clans or the flying cabers, the Highland Games continue to keep Scotland’s heritage moving forward. Explore Highland Games happening this summer on Tartan Trail.

Heritage Spotlight

Donald Dinnie

Heavy Athlete

Aberdeenshire

Before modern sports stars filled stadiums, Scotland had Donald Dinnie. Born in Aberdeenshire in 1837, Dinnie became one of the most celebrated athletes of the 19th century. He competed in Highland Games events, wrestling, running, jumping and feats of strength while travelling throughout the world. His name is still closely connected with the famous Dinnie Stones—two enormous stones that he reportedly carried across Potarch Bridge. More than a strongman, Donald Dinnie helped introduce Scottish athletic traditions to audiences far beyond Scotland. Fun Fact: Strength athletes still travel to Aberdeenshire to attempt to lift the Dinnie Stones today.