President’s Welcome 2024

Ceud Mìle Fàilte

Welcome to the site of the historic Melbourne Highland Games & Celtic Festival. As President of this esteemed event, I warmly invite you to experience everything we have to offer. This event has been enjoyed for more than half a century in the City of Maroondah!

The Highland Games are held throughout Scotland in summertime. In Melbourne we hold our Games in the start of autumn after the hot season. At these traditional gatherings, clansmen compete against each other in an array of events including tossing caber, putting the stone, hammer throw, weight throw and tug o’ war. Each clan also displays their Tartan and plays music on bagpipes or drums as part of their performance. There is something special that happens when these traditions come together – an atmosphere of camaraderie and competition that is unique to our Scotland’s culture.

In addition to participating in sporting events, visitors can sample traditional Scottish cuisine such as haggis, neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes). There are also plenty of artisanal crafts to purchase from vendors on-site, such as bonnets and kilts, jewelry, hand-made items and memorabilia. Attendees can find authentic items specific to their region or family at specialty vendors and Clan tents.

On behalf of the Melbourne Highland Games & Celtic Festival Committee, I invite you to join us in celebrating and enjoying all that our Scottish and Celtic culture has to offer. So come out and show your support for this wonderful tradition at the only metropolitan Highland Games in Melbourne.!
Remember the date……Sunday, March 24, 2024. See you there!

Yours Aye
Wayne R Makin FSAScot
President
Melbourne Highland Games & Celtic Festival