History of Our Games

The Games that take place at Town Centre Park in 2024 will be the continuation of a 100+ year tradition that originated with the original Scottish settlers in the Vancouver area. The Scots were not only the earliest immigrants, but also one of the most influential to the city and region as it grew. Despite wars and changing demographics, BC has continued to be a hotbed of Scottish culture through piping, drumming, pipe bands and highland and Scottish country dancing, supported by the descendants of those early settlers, the many new arrivals and `Scottish Canadians 'who come to the Games to celebrate their heritage. BC continues to produce world class Scottish pipers, dancers and championship pipe bands.

So what makes a highland games different than any other cultural celebration?

Highland Games originated among the Scots' ancestors in the "old country" and became a customary part of their life. Tossing the caber, putting the stone, throwing the hammer and competition in bagpiping and Highland dancing formed the core of the Games, pitting the best musicians, dancers and athletes against each other to determine the best. A full day of competition, some great music, dancing and maybe a bit of Scottish whisky made for a great day in the highlands. As economic times changed in Scotland, emigration dispersed the Highland Games idea and brought it to North America where they have flourished throughout Canada and the US.

In Canada, a Highland Society was first organized in Ontario in 1819 but lapsed after many successful gatherings. More permanent games were established in 1838 by the Caledonian Club of PEI. Similar games followed in Lancaster, Toronto, Montréal and Zorra, and by Canadian confederation in 1867, in Halifax, Antigonish, Chatham, Ottawa and Vancouver.