After a few years of setbacks due to Covid and inclement weather, the much-awaited 2023 Canberra Highland Gathering is set to make a triumphant return on Saturday, October 7th, offering a jam-packed day of Scottish festivities that will leave attendees enthralled.

One of the standout changes this year is the substantial increase in the number of pipe bands and piping and drumming performances, all in response to feedback from festival-goers who had longed for more pipe-band showcases. 

The event organisers have decided to revamp the program significantly, with two notable alterations.

Firstly, the traditional pipe band competition format will be replaced by a pipe band performance format. This entails inviting up to 15 bands, each putting on captivating 15–20 minute displays throughout the day. These invited bands will also participate in the opening and closing massed pipes and drums, creating a continuous stream of pipe band performances from 10.30am to the grand finale at 4.30pm.

The second significant change introduces solo piping and drumming competitions for the very first time. This addition allows individual pipers and drummers to demonstrate their skills by playing set pieces and competing across various graded levels. Spectators will have the opportunity to witness the intricacies of solo piping and drumming, a distinct discipline from performing in a pipe band. These solo performances will be evaluated by world-class judges specially brought in for the event, with three to four solo events running simultaneously throughout the day.

In addition to the captivating piping and drumming performances, the Canberra City Highland Dancing Championship will be a highlight of the day, featuring more than 70 dancers from across the country showcasing traditional Scottish dances.

The festivities extend beyond the musical and dancing performances. The Tartan Warriors will thrill the audience with displays of strength and athleticism through traditional Scottish heavy sporting events like the caber toss, lifting of the stones, and the atlas stones. The National Military Re-Enactment Group and the Rural Fire Brigade will also offer engaging displays, while the Canberra College of Piping and Drumming will host an information tent for those curious to explore playing the bagpipes or snare drum.

With these changes, the sounds of the bagpipes will reverberate throughout the neighborhood and the Tuggeranong Valley during the day. Coupled with various other events and displays and an evening Scottish ceilidh at the Canberra Burns Club, this gathering aims to create a unique Scottish village experience in Canberra for one day each year.

So, save the date: Saturday, October 7th, from 10am to 5pm at Kambah Oval, Kett Street. 

Entry is free. 

For additional information, visit www.canberragathering.com.au.