The 61st Annual Colorado Highland Games

After a long year of planning, the 61st Games took place on September 20th and 21st. The weather was perfect, the crowds were energized, and the venue set the scene for a perfect weekend to celebrate Scottish culture and traditions.

Clan Parade at mid-day ceremonies - Taken by Braeden Goggans

The Clans -

The new set up of the Games made the clan section feel more like a small village. It felt more homey with the rows and columns of clans. The faces were friendly and eager to chat. Mingling with the clans just makes you feel at home, whether you belong to a clan or not, each and every clan is welcoming.

The Entertainment -

Our entertainment this year was just amazing. We got many compliments on the acts that performed. One man went up to Swagger (headliner), seemingly upset, just to say he was mad he had to stay two hours longer than he planned because they were just that good. One Facebook comment, stated they were disappointed they had to chose between watching Swagger and Nerea the Fiddler. Other acts included: headliner Wicked Tinkers, Avourneen, the commoners, The McDeviants, Skean Dubh, Chancers Hooley, Indigent Row, Ballyhooley, Piscin & Lush. We also had the Ren Scots, who are fan favorites at our Games. This year we had the lovely addition of The Celtic Caterer, Chef Eric McBride who gave Celtic cooking demonstration. Queen city pipe band also gave us another great performance.

Caber Toss - Taken by Braeden Goggans

The Athletics -

This year the athletics field drew in the crowd! With the addition of two sets of bleachers, perfect weather, a new set up to draw more people down the field, athletics got the crowd they deserved. At one point, they were running ahead of schedule, so they took the time to let members of the crowd try out some of the sports. We got raving reviews from both the athletes and attendees on how well the athletics section was presented.

Saturday's midday ceremony - massed bands - Taken by Samantha Hurst

The Pipe Bands -

Hearing the tunes of the pipe bands play all throughout the weekend makes the heart feel at home. We had many local pipe bands come and they definitely showed up. The mass bands, led by our own Shellie Brinkley, was a specular sight to see and also brought in a massive crowd.

Other Highlights -

It is always a pleasure to see the youth participating in Highland dance. The dance competition had its own stage this year and had many young dancers competing. We also had coos back at the games for the first time in a while. We have received many comments on how much they just loved seeing and petting the coos. The dogs of the British Isles were also back this year and are another fan favorite. We had dogs from deer hounds to Skye terriers roaming about the field.