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PRESS INFO

August 17, 2026 – MEDIA ADVISORY

NHSCOT BRINGS THE SPIRIT OF THE TARTAN ARMY TO LOON MOUNTAIN

Celebrate the energy, pride and passion that made such a mark on the region during the World Cup at the 51st Annual NH Highland Games & Festival, Sept. 18–20

LINCOLN, NH – The 51st Annual NH Highland Games & Festival returns to Loon Mountain in Lincoln September 18-20th, celebrating the sights, sounds and tastes of Scotland. The 2026 NH Highland Games & Festival is a 3-day event which includes live music, Highland Dance, heavy athletics, sheep dog trials, competitions, demonstrations, pageantry, massed bands, and more. Try It classes all day long in street curling, stone lifting, and more. Visitors can also sign up for a seminar and explore topics ranging from Scottish cooking to genealogy.

“The Tartan Army left its loving heart on the people of Boston during the World Cup, with countless moments of kindness and generosity,” says Josh Auger, President of NHSCOT, host of the NH Highland Games & Festival. “This year’s festival leans into celebrating the history, culture and people who embody that indomitable spirit.  We invite everyone to come and celebrate the Scots and learn more about their heritage.”

An exciting new addition for 2026 is the appearance of the Strathallan School Pipe Band, direct from Scotland.  Founded in 1946, the student band performs throughout the UK and internationally. A highly successful competition band, Strathallan won the 2024 British Pipe Band Championships.

“Scottish music is such an integral part of the weekend and we are thrilled to have a group the caliber of Strathallan School,” says Auger. “These young people are talented beyond their years and will provide a memorable soundtrack for visitors.”

Here are some of the highlights awaiting visitors:

  • The Caledonian Clash: Heavy Athletics Team Competition – back for its 3rd year
    • Competition will take place on both Saturday and Sunday
    • Five teams compete in seven traditional heavy athletic events
    • The winning team will be awarded the Caledonian Cup
    • Fan favorite and long-time competitor Mike Zolkiewicz is retiring as an athlete after these games.  NHSCOT will send him off with a memorable challenge; organizers have beefed up the Master’s Class of athletes to compete
  • King of the Mountain Stonelifting Challenge – returning for its 2nd year.
    • Competition takes place on Friday at 2pm on athletic field
    • Competitors battle in a demanding five-minute “stone to shoulder” event
  • Live music all weekend, across 3 locations
    • Albannach, Gleadhraich, The Rollin Drones – Concert Tent
    • Cantrip, Rebel Collective, Cassie and Maggie – Piper’s Pub
      Carroll Sisters Trio, Dashing Rock, Cynthia MacLeod and Gordon Belsher – Governor’s Lodge
    • New Performers: Gleadhraich, Cassie and Maggie, Carroll Sisters and Dashing Rock
  • Try It Opportunities – hands-on way to learn Scottish skills
    • Dance: Highland Dance, Ceilidh Dancing
    • Music: Snare Drumming, Tenor Drumming, Drum Major, Piping
    • Athletics: Mas-wrestling, Stone Lifting
    • Culture: Gaelic Lessons
  • Demonstrations & Seminars – engage with Scottish culture
    • Johnny Gauld – “The Caledonian Cowboy” Adventures and Hikes in Scotland
    • Ronald Collins – Genealogy
    • Gary MacLean, Scotland’s National Chef – Scottish Cooking, a fan favorite
    • Collette Tours – 2027 Discover Scotland & Ireland Trip with NHSCOT
    • Highland Cows – Miles Smith Farm, Friday & Sunday
    • Charlie Zahm – singer and player of Celtic, maritime and traditional music
    • David S. Brody – author and historian
  • Sheep Dog Trials – Friday only
    • Sheep dogs, guided by their handlers, use personalized whistle commands to herd a pack of sheep through obstacles with speed and efficiency
  • Massed Bands & Opening Ceremonies – Saturday only
    • Two-dozen pipe and drum bands marching and performing in unison along Parade Square

This is a family-friendly weekend centered around Scottish heritage. A stroll through Clan Village allows guests to discover their Scottish roots by talking with representatives of 60+ Scottish clans while the Historic Encampment shows everyday life in the Scottish Highlands during the 14th – 18th centuries.  Vendor Village is home to more than 30 vendors selling tartan wearables, traditional Scottish sweets, bagpiping supplies, and various other Celtic items. Food vendors will also be on-site selling a range of Scottish cuisine and beer tents will be set up throughout the venue.

In accompaniment of the Games, NHSCOT hosts a variety of Special Ticketed Events, offering attendees the opportunity to take their weekend experience to the next level. Daytime and evening events include whisky and beer tastings, concerts, ceilidhs and more.

Single-Day Tickets and 3-Day Weekend Passes are available:

Friday: Adult, $45
Saturday: $70
Sunday: $45
Children (4-16): $7, with purchase of Adult ticket
Toddler (0-5): Free with purchase of Adult ticket

For more information, go to nhscot.org for a full schedule of events and more on the history of the NH Highland Games & Festival.

Sponsored by the New Hampshire Army National Guard.

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About NHSCOT

NHSCOT® is a nonprofit business dedicated to preserving and promoting Scottish culture for future generations.  Each year, NHSCOT hosts the NH Highland Games & Festival as well as a variety of other events, classes, workshops, and competitions in alignment with its mission, vision, and values.