The Canmore Highland Games Aug. 31 & Sept. 1, 2024 

A vein of Scottish culture runs strong through Canmore’s community and is celebrated annually through the Canmore Highland Games. Founded in 1884 as a coal mining town, driven by the expansion of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR). Scottish immigrants and their families settled in Canmore, bringing with them their customs, traditions, and a strong sense of community. Immerse yourself this Labour Day weekend in majestic mountains and the sounds of bagpipes and drums that bring together the traditions, athleticism, and spirit of Scotland. Canmore may not be the Scottish Highlands, but on Aug. 31st & Sept. 1st, it may feel like it is.

Come to the 33rd Annual Canmore Highland Games!
Two Full Days of Celtic Culture~ Aug. 31 & Sept. 1st.

Reflecting the rich musical traditions of Scotland, the weekend will be filled with music and dance. Highland dancers of all ages, from near and far, will take the stage in dance competitions exhibiting strength, agility, and grace. The air will be filled with the sounds of the hundreds of pipers and drummers who come to win honors at the Piping and Drumming competitions. And the thrill of the closing ceremony, where all bands will join the Massed Pipes & Drums of the Canmore Highland Games, will move you.

Central to the Canmore Highland Games, and a crowd favorite on the festival fields, are the heavy sports. Cheer for the athletes as they throw the hammer, stone put, and try to toss the caber end over end. These traditional Scottish athletic competitions showcase the strength, skill, and endurance of the players.

The Canmore Highland Games also serve as a gathering point for Scottish clans. Clan tents will be set up to share about the history and heritage of various Scottish clans. Perhaps you’ll find your people?

Wander through the Celtic Market to find your kilt kit or a new bonnet. Peruse the British Car Show. Watch the Sheepdogs herd. Enter in the Tug of War! There’s something for everyone!

We give cheers to our opening day with the Taste of the Highlands Saturday night, Aug. 31st. Enjoy an evening in a Celtic Lounge atmosphere sipping wines and whiskeys, meads and ales from some of the world’s most celebrated producers. Appetizers will be served up by some of Canmore’s finest restaurants.

Over the two days of the Canmore Highland Games, festival tents will showcase additional entertainment from local bands and Irish Step Dancers. And be sure to join us for our kitchen party, the Canmore Ceilidh, on Sunday, Sept. 1st. This year, coming all the way from Glasgow, we have the Rollin Drones, a dynamic, energetic, 6-piece bagpipe pop band, here to close out our weekend of events with the party of the summer!

The Canmore Highland Games have grown significantly since their inception, becoming a major event in Canmore’s cultural calendar. Held annually on the Labor Day weekend, the games attract participants and spectators from across Canada and beyond. The event is a vibrant celebration of Scottish culture and summer festival in the Rocky Mountains that you don’t want to miss.

Come Celebrate Celtic Culture in Canmore Aug. 31 & Sept. 1!