Experience Scotland in Coastal Maine at the Highland Games

This August, you’ll have a chance to experience Scotland in Maine.

Put on by the St. Andrews Society of Maine, the 45th Maine Highland Games will take over Thomas Point Beach Campground in Brunswick on August 17.

The fun will start on Friday, August 16, with a party called Ceilidh (pronounced Kay-Lee). There’ll be food, beverages, and music.

The highlight of Saturday's events will be the chance to see the heavy athletics competitions, including the hammer throw and caber toss.

Other activities include a sheep herding demonstration, pipe & drum competitions, armored fighting demonstrations, and dance demonstrations.

There'll be no shortage of traditional Scottish food to try, and for those who are 21+, there'll be a pib.

Tickets for the event are $30 for adults, $5 for kids (six to 12), and free for younger kids (five and under).

Get additional details and purchase tickets HERE.

The History of the Highland Games

While there are several theories about the origins of the Highland Games, one of the most popular stories has them beginning in the 11^th century.

According to the Visit Scotland website:

King Malcolm III needed a personal courier, so he called a foot race to the summit of Creag Chòinnich, near Braemar, in the hopes of finding the fastest runner. Many games still include a hill race, although the winner is no longer destined for a life of servitude!

Over the centuries, the games have grown in popularity. Starting in the 1800s, they began to be celebrated in other countries. The first Highland Games celebrated in New York took place in 1836.

Check out this video of an interview that 207 did with the Saint Andrews Society's James Rodden.

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