Scottish Highland Gathering & Games

Forget traveling to London to see the pomp and ceremony of the famous Pipes & Drums - 1st Battalion Scots Guards parading at Buckingham Palace.
The world famous pipe band will be in Pleasanton on Sept. 5 and 6 to take part in the 144th edition of the world’s largest Scottish Highland Gathering & Games at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.
The pipe band was created in 1642 when King Charles I commissioned the Marquis of Argyll to raise a brigade of personal guards in Scotland. The regimental band continues today, steeped in history, as both a pipe band and as highly trained soldiers.
These soldier-musicians will share the limelight both days with the 45-piece U.S. Marine Band San Diego. Both bands will perform individually, then together in one of the world’s only integrated performances by military bands from Scotland and America.
The event also features sports, live music, activities for children, as well as authentic food and drink.
The 35th U.S. Invitational Heavy Events Championship, plus the World Celtic Hammer Championship, brings the strongest and best athletes in the world in the professional division.
The Western U.S. Highland Dancing Championship brings together competitors in five age groups from throughout California.
Six stages will be packed with continuous musical entertainment, including traditional music and Celtic Rock. Along with dancers, fiddlers and harpers.
Re-enactment groups will be present, along with the unique display “Bird of Prey.” Handlers will present over 25 hawks, falcons, owls and other flying predators.
There is also the whisky tasting venue and seminars on the finer points of the single malt spirits.
Five-A-Side soccer, rugby and the ancient Scottish sport of shinty add to the agenda. A number of British motorcars will also be on display.
British and American food and drink is available throughout the fairgrounds and at the Red Lion Pub.
The gates open both days at 9 a.m. On Saturday the festival will close at 6:30 p.m., but will be followed by a Ceilidh (Scottish party) with open microphone and a barbecue dinner at the Red Lion Pub. One day adult admission is $17, 2-day is $25. Single day admission for youth ages 8-16, seniors 65-plus and handicapped are $10. Under 8 is free, as is the military when showing and active duty ID.