Skip to main content
Visit Scotland | Alba
Article published 06/08/2024

We’re counting down to an eagerly anticipated weekend on the Scottish Highland Games calendar, the Cowal Gathering. This year the event celebrates its 130th anniversary from 29 to 31 August 2024.

Aside from some of the more "traditional events", visitors might associate with the Highland Games, the Cowal Gathering features a whole lot more family-friendly attractions. Every spectator can enjoy every attraction included in the price of their entry ticket.

The competitors will do battle on the stadium, each vying to win some historic Cowal Gathering silverware. In addition, some of Scotland’s best entertainers will be on hand to keep everyone happy.

There is a wide range of entertainment for people of all ages to juggle. Gathering organisers have ensured that every ticket holder has an opportunity to schedule their day so as not to miss a thing.

What's on at the Cowal Gathering?

  • Traditional Highland Games

    • World Highland Dancing Championships
    • Cowal Pipe Band Championships
    • Cowal International Heavy Athletics Championship
  • Attractions

    • Artie's Singing Kettle
    • arts and crafts tent
    • BMX show
    • Braveheart axe-throwing
    • come-and-try-mountain-biking
    • crazy golf
    • giant games
    • Punch and Judy shows
    • and more
  • Musical entertainment Saturday afternoon

    This year, the Live Music Tent is headlined by Cowal Gathering favourites and last year’s Gig at the Gathering headliners, Beinn Lee.

    Joining them, for the first time at the Cowal Gathering, is the Oban band Ceòl An Aire.

    Abigail Pryde is making a comeback; this year, for the fist time, with the Abigail Pryde Band.

    The Inverhooley Ceilidh Band will kick off the afternoon's entertainment.

We’ve been working especially hard behind the scenes to make sure our 130th anniversary is a party to remember.

We’ve brought back some firm favourites as well as introducing some new elements which we hope will delight Gathering goers of all ages.

We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors and friends old and new back to Cowal, and showing them why Cowal Gathering has been seen as one of Scotland’s great days out since 1894.

Fraser McCowan, member of the Cowal Gathering Board

Related links