About This Festival

The Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games & Festival is a family-friendly cultural event celebrating Scottish heritage with a day of Highland games, Celtic music, royal court living history, bagpipes, food, vendors, and a children’s area including face painting. In 2024, it is scheduled for October 12 from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM at the Marion County Fairgrounds in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The festival’s vibe is festive and community-oriented, emphasizing Scottish and Celtic culture, history, and traditions. It combines athletic competitions—the Highland games—with musical and cultural displays, making it appealing for all ages.

Activities at the Event

  • Highland Games Athletics: Traditional heavy athletic events such as caber toss, sheaf toss, hammer throw, stone put, and weight-over-bar, reflecting medieval Highland clan competitions.
  • Celtic Music and Bagpipes: Live performances featuring traditional Scottish instruments and songs.
  • Living History Royal Court: Actors portray Scottish royalty and nobility, offering historical education and immersive experiences.
  • Vendors: Stalls selling Scottish-themed merchandise, crafts, food, and drinks.
  • Children’s Area: Family-oriented activities including face painting and interactive games.
  • Food: Scottish and Celtic cuisine available for attendees.

Rough Schedule Overview

  • Morning start around 8:30 AM with vendor booths and early games.
  • Highland games competitions include athletics contests throughout the day.
  • Music and cultural performances interspersed during the event.
  • Family activities and children’s events running parallel.
  • Event concludes around 9:00 PM.

History and Founding

The 2024 event marks the 12th annual Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games & Festival, indicating it was founded around 2013. It is organized by the SSI Board of Trustees and the Scottish Foundation of Indianapolis, which aim to celebrate and preserve Scottish culture and heritage in the region.

This festival is part of a broader network of Scottish Highland games and cultural events across the Midwest and the USA, often honoring specific Scottish clans and serving as cultural gatherings for descendants and enthusiasts of Scottish tradition.

Location

The Marion County Fairgrounds (7300 East Troy Avenue) provides an accessible, spacious outdoor venue suitable for athletic competitions, vendor setups, and family activities, with provisions for handicapped accessibility.

Admission

  • Adults: $15 online in advance, $18 at door
  • Children: $5 online in advance, $6 at door

This festival offers a robust cultural experience blending heritage, sport, music, and family fun in a welcoming Indianapolis setting.