The Annual Highland Games run by the St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit are the oldest Highland Games in North America starting in 1849. Held every year on the first weekend of August at Greenmead Historical Park in Livonia. There are Scottish competitions in Highland Dancing, Tug O’ War, Heavy Athletics, and Piping and Drumming. You can also purchase all you can of Scottish food, Celtic jewelry, Scottish kilts, and many other crafts and festival food. There are also numerous clans represented here if you want to do a little genealogy search. Plus, fantastic Scottish musicians and live entertainment are throughout the park. Here is a quick look at an enjoyable weekend in Detroit.
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Highland Dance
Cabor Toss
Each man has three tries to lift the tree trunk, cabor, up in the air and have it rotate 180 degrees facing the opposite direction. This was so entertaining to watch as each tried over and over again to lift the cabor, which is over 100lbs, and throw it to rotate. Once they get it picked up, they have to run with it then completely stop, then throw it. Judged on accuracy, they need to hit exactly a perfect 12 o’clock throw. These guys come from all over the United States to participate in this competition. What an incredible group of athletes!
Tug O’ War
Pipes and Drums
The Annual Highland Games is an excellent way to celebrate your Scottish heritage or just come and celebrate someone else’s. Mark your calendar for the next year’s first weekend in August! Don’t want to miss it!