What to Expect at the Highland Games Hunter Valley

The Highland Games return to Saltire Estate in Lovedale, bringing an unforgettable blend of Scottish tradition, premium wine, and vibrant Hunter Valley hospitality.

This year, we are shaking things up with a brand-new event layout designed to maximize the fun and bring everyone closer to the energy. We’ve reimagined the flow of the festival grounds to create a more vibrant, connected atmosphere where you’re always right in the heart of the celebration.

Here is your exclusive sneak peek at what awaits across the vines this spring.

A Fresh New Layout: Designed for Fun

This year’s redesigned festival grounds are all about community and atmosphere. Instead of separate, spread-out zones, our new open-plan layout brings the athletic arenas, music stages, and dining areas closer together. No matter where you are sitting, strolling, or sipping a glass of wine, you’ll have a fantastic view of the action and feel entirely swept up in the festive Celtic spirit.

Traditional Scottish Athletics

At the heart of the Games are the iconic feats of strength and skill. With our new layout putting you closer to the arena boundaries, you’ll get a front-row, high-energy view as the competitors battle it out in the caber toss, hammer throw, keg toss, and open stone put. Feel the ground shake and join the roar of the crowd like never before!

The Sound of the Pipes & Drums

Few things capture the Scottish spirit like the powerful resonance of bagpipes echoing through the vineyards. Throughout the day, enjoy spectacular live pipe band performances, massed parades, and solo drumming competitions. Because of our new open layout, the music will seamlessly carry across the entire estate, providing a stirring, cinematic soundtrack to your day.

Highland Dancing & Cultural Displays

The Highland dancing arena will showcase incredible footwork, elegant tradition, and joyful energy, featuring classic performances like the Highland Fling and the Sword Dance. Nearby, you can explore living history displays and artisan markets that bring Scotland's rich heritage right to life in a bustling, central cultural hub.

Eat, Shop, and Feast

The Games are a feast for all the senses. Wander through our expanded Celtic village market, packed with tartan wares, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. When hunger strikes, follow your nose to a lively lineup of food trucks serving up hearty Scottish favourites like haggis, meat pies, and shortbread, alongside modern festival fare.

Of course, no visit to Saltire Estate is complete without world-class refreshments. Pair your feast with a crisp glass of Saltire wine, or step into the cellar door for a guided tasting flight to soak up the festival atmosphere in style.

Join the Celebration

Whether you are coming for the jaw-dropping athletic competitions, the beautiful music, or simply to soak up the incredible new festival vibe, the Highland Games promise a day full of music, laughter, and premium hospitality.