Cowal Highland Gathering

The Cowal Highland Gathering is an annual festival in Dunoon with around 3,000 competitors and 20,000 spectators meeting for traditional Scottish athletic competitions. The three-day event takes place in August at Dunoon Stadium and includes athletic contests, dancing championships, and pipe bands.

The gathering started in 1894 when Robert Cameron organized the first formal Highland games event, which later grew into a major celebration of Scottish traditions. Since then it has continued to develop and become one of Scotland's most respected gatherings.

The Highland dancing championships and pipe band performances show Scottish heritage through competitions that draw participants from around the world. You can watch dancers in traditional kilts perform on stage and see how bands present their music.

The gathering takes place each August and it helps to arrive early to secure good spots and see the full program. Dunoon Stadium offers both seating and open areas, so visitors can find space for themselves or larger groups based on preference.

The Argyll Shield, a prize for winning Grade 1 pipe bands since 1906, was originally a gift from Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll. This historic award remains presented at each gathering, connecting the modern event to its royal past.