Highland
Traditions and Culture
After the Battle of Culloden in 1706, the British government set out to destroy Highland culture. Some say this only strengthened Highlanders’ resolve to celebrate their heritage, which continues to this day in the form of clan gatherings, spectacular sporting tournaments, and Highland Games.
t Players engaged in the traditional Highland sport of Camanachd, or shinty
Fast and Furious Highland Sport
Camanachd (shinty), the fast and fearsome sport of the Highlands, plays out much like a ferocious clan battle. Players raise their sticks to hit the ball in the air and physical contact is allowed. Men’s and Women’s finals for the Camanachd and Valerie Fraser cups take place in September. Check www.shinty.com for local fixtures.
Traditional Highland Games
Kilted muscle-men (and women) are a high point of any Highland Games, where athletes toss mighty cabers, hurl massive hammers and throw mammoth weights. Over 80 events take place in villages, castle grounds and Highland estates across the country every weekend from May to September.
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
After the defeat of the Jacobites, clans who fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie were recruited to fight for King George. The Black Watch is the oldest of these kilted regiments, which in 2006 were merged to create the Royal Regiment of Scotland. They can be seen (and heard) in their full tartan glory at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, held at Edinburgh Castle during the month of August.
Braemar Gathering, Ballater
Held annually in Ballater, the Braemar Gathering hosts one of the most prestigious and renowned Highland clan gatherings in the country. Thousands attend to enjoy the spectacle. Watch Highland dancers compete for style points as hundreds of pipers and drummers march in unison, and sample all manner of traditional Scottish food and drink.
Behind the Kilt
In the 16th century, the kilt was a full-length garment, with the upper half worn as a cloak. An elaborate code lays down who can wear what tartan. Most clans have at least two tartans – a bold pattern for formal dress and a second more muted version for everyday wear. Up to 20 new tartans are created every year and kilts in stripes or polka dots, accessorized with fake-fur sporrans in rainbow colours, are a fun alternative to the traditional plaid.
Insider tip
The Royal National Mòd
Listen to traditional pipe and clarsach (harp) music and melancholy Gaelic song and verse at the Royal National Mòd, which is held in a different location in the Scottish Highlands every year.