Posted in New Hampshire August 09, 2017 by Rachel

This Is Hands-Down The Most Epic Festival In All Of New Hampshire

There are plenty of great festivals in New Hampshire, celebrating a variety of interests – beer, art, food, and more. None of those, however, quite match up to what we think is the most epic event in New Hampshire – the New Hampshire Highland Games and Festival. This year’s event runs from September 15–17, and you absolutely won’t want to miss it.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

The New Hampshire Highland Games and Festival is held each September at Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln, and is one of the largest Scottish heritage festivals in North America, regularly drawing more than 40,000 visitors. It spans three days and includes athletics, living history, and so much more.

For many, the festival is a chance to get in touch with their Scottish heritage. During the Gathering of the Clans, representatives from the 65+ clans at the festival show off their tartan. You can visit them throughout the weekend in the Clan Village if you miss the parade!

You won't want to miss the chance to observe some Scottish Heavy Athletics, including such events as the caber toss, hammer throw, weight over bar, and stone carry. It's definitely different than your average athletic event!

You can check out some canine athletes too - the sheep-herding is really incredible.

There's plenty of musical entertainment too - including the unmissable Red Hot Chili Pipers.

Admire the grace and coordination of highland dancers during their competition.

In the market for a new kilt? You'll find plenty for sale here, as well as numerous other Scottish goods and souvenirs.

If you're really daring, you can even pick up some haggis.

There are all sorts of Scottish delicacies on offer, from Scotch eggs (cooked eggs wrapped in sausage and fried) to scones.

Of course, no Scottish festival would be complete without plenty of whisky tastings.

And there’s plenty more to keep you entertained through the weekend – even a kilted 5K! To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit the New Hampshire Highland Games and Festival website. It’s certainly an event not to be missed!