Embro Highland Games
Highland Dance
Very little captures the spirit of Scottish culture better than Highland Dance. Originally danced by men to display their worthiness for battle, this artform requires technique, stamina, agility and strength. Each dance is steeped in Scottish history. The “Seann Triubhas”, Gaelic for “old trousers”, displays the Highlander’s disgust at being forced to wear the hated Sassenach trousers; the Highland Fling was a dance performed following a victory in battle and depicts the stag frolicking free in the glen.
Pipers and Pipe Bands
Since ancient times, the bagpipes have been a rallying force for Scots in war and peace. The pipe band remains a focal point at Scottish gatherings throughout the world and Embro is no exception. Enjoy the judged solo piping and drumming competitions as the members from different pipe bands compete against one another. The highlight of our Games and one of the most stirring spectacles is always the massed bands. Celebrating Embro’s Scottish heritage the music can be heard for miles as pipe bands play and march together as one.
Heavy Event Championships
Spectacular heavy athletic events have been part of Scottish gatherings since the 11th century. Originally these gruelling challenges were a means for ancient Highland chieftains to test, select and train the best warriors. Today these feats of strength are undertaken by both women and men alike, as they compete in the “Heavies”. Many of the events you will see use traditional equipment, such as: the caber (a tree trunk which is tossed end over end), the hammer throw, the stone toss, and the weight over the bar.
Live Music
The Steel City Rovers perform dynamic and expressive music that is a unique composite of traditional Celtic music and North American styles including bluegrass, folk and roots. Head to the Muckle Tent to have a listen to their original works!
This fabulous local duo with their flat caps and acoustic guitars in hand will add a different flavour to the afternoon’s musical entertainment. You will want to join in the toe tapping sea shanties and songs from the East Coast, Ireland & Scotland.
Outdoor Bar
The Outdoor Bar’s offerings include amazing local craft beers from Upper Thames Brewing Company, and cocktails from Junction 56 Distillery. Wander the fully-licensed grounds as you take in the events. Or pull up a seat and kick back while you enjoy the live music from the Muckle Tent!
Tug-of-War
The heritage of this sport runs deep in the area that surrounds Embro. In 1893 a team of farmers who became known as the ‘Mighty Men of Zorra’ won the world championships in Chicago when they competed against teams from all over the world! Brought to Oxford County by its Scottish inhabitants, tug-o-war has been a popular sport in the area since the 19th century.
Requiring only a rope, two teams face each other in a test of strength and determination. We are very excited to have tug-o-war back at the Games this year with competing teams from across North America.
Agility Dogs
Enjoy these amazing dogs of all breeds and sizes as they jump fences, weave poles and travel through tunnels at the command of their owners. Members of a local agility club display their dogs at different levels of training while amusing and entertaining the audience.
Sheep Herding
Watch Border Collies and their handlers move, separate, re-group, pen and sort sheep like it has been done for centuries. See how the handlers direct their dogs with commands, whistles and gestures but especially note how the dogs instinctively understand and concentrate on the task at hand.
Scottish Dogs on Parade
Scottish Dogs on Parade is both educational and entertaining… some real family fun! From the Scottish Deerhound to the Scottish Terrier, learn about the various breeds that hail from Scotland as they are paraded by their owners.
Tea Room
Take some time out for a refreshing cuppa and a nibble at our indoor tearoom. Enjoy a traditional afternoon high tea served in lovely china cups with sandwiches, scones and dainties. One lump or two?
Kids Crafts
For the children, we have some entertaining Scottish-themed crafts in the Great Hall. Bring the wee ones to learn a bit of Scottish culture while engaging their creative side.
Taiwanese
Enjoy some Taiwanese entertainment while learning about the strong connections that exist between Oxford County and the country of Taiwan. Find out how the son of a Scottish immigrant family, Rev. George Leslie MacKay, became so highly revered by the Taiwanese people!
Livestock
While walking the grounds, take a moment to visit the Scottish animals. Enjoy the beautiful Clydesdales, Shetland ponies, Highland cows and sheep. Read the fun fact sheets about these unique animals!
General Admission
Enjoy a day full of Scottish fun and tradition that will be sure to entertain and thrill you. With family-friendly events throughout the day, there is something for everyone! Purchase your tickets online and save!