The Canberra Highland Gathering is set to be a grand celebration of Scottish culture on October 12th.

This year, the gathering will feature pipe bands performing throughout the day, solo piping and drumming competitions, and traditional Highland dancing.

The Tartan Warriors will showcase their strength in Scottish heavy athletic events, and attendees can explore their Scottish roots at clan tents. With 35 stalls, the event will also offer a variety of food, including traditional Scottish fare, and a range of market stalls.

Athol Chalmers, President of the Canberra Highland Society and Burns Club, shared his excitement: “It’s going to be bigger and better than ever. We have about 35 stalls this year which is more than we’ve ever had. 

“Last year, for the first time we had solo piping and drumming, and we had about 50 entries. This year we are expecting more.”

The festivities will continue in the evening with a traditional ceilidh at the Canberra Burns Club, featuring a local Celtic band, Highland dancing, piping, and drumming. This year’s gathering also marks a significant milestone — the club’s 100th anniversary. 

Athol Chalmers highlighted the celebrations: “In the evening after the Highland gathering, we have our traditional ceilidh. The weekend’s not finished then because on Sunday, the club celebrates its 100th birthday, a huge achievement for the Burns Club. Oldest club in Canberra, second-oldest business in Canberra, so we’ve got a whole lot of events this year celebrating our centenary. But by good fortune, it turns out the 100th birthday is the 13th of October which is the day after the Highland Games. Celebrations at the club that day will see birthday cake, more Highland dancing, more pipe bands, and a drop of whisky or two to celebrate the anniversary.”

Canberra Burns Club has a rich history, starting in 1924 when Scots in Canberra, then a small city, established it to preserve their culture. Over the years, the club has faced challenges, including wars and the Depression, but has remained resilient by continually reinventing itself.

The club’s move to Kambah in 1991 marked a significant growth period, with membership skyrocketing. The Burns Club has always maintained its Scottish roots while supporting the local community. The Burns Club Pipe Band has been active since 1937.

The club’s recent purchase of the Belconnen golf club symbolises its ongoing growth. 

Organisers are encouraging attendees to make a weekend of it by participating in both the Highland Gathering and the anniversary celebrations at the Burns Club. 

The weekend promises to be a vibrant showcase of Scottish culture, tradition, and community spirit.

DATES & DEETS

12 OCT

Canberra ACT

canberragathering.com.au


Pictures: Historical reenactment and, top, massed bands at the 2023 Canberra Highland Gathering. Credit: facebook.com/canberrahighlandgathering