Get ready, BC, because the May long weekend will be here before you know it. And the longest-running Highland Games event in North America is back in Victoria this year!

The Highland Games are a Scottish tradition celebrating all things Scotland and Celtic culture. Typically, the games involve a range of sporting events and athletic competitions – including caber tosses, hammer throws, weightlifting, and a range of running and jumping events.

2023 games and activities

The 2023 Games will mark the 160th annual festival, and will be held at Topaz Park in Victoria. And thanks to a partnership with the Victoria Military Music Festival Society, the celebration will include a Saturday Evening Musical Extravaganza, complete with professional drum majors, Scottish regiment pipe bands, and a performance by the Royal Canadian Navy Naden Band.

As well, this year’s Highland Games will include drumming and piping competitions, Scottish Highland dancing, music by Scottish/Celtic folk music bands, Scottish genealogy booths, and traditional food vendors.

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19+ events

For those 19 and over, there’s also a Single Malt Whisky School and a Wine Tasting School, where participants can sample some of the finest single-malt Scotch whiskies and red, rose, and sparkling wines. Oh, and the Lighthouse Brewing Company’s Highland Challenge Ale, which was brewed specially for this event!

Ticket info

Adult tickets are priced at $15 each for one day, and $25 for a two-day pass, with children under 12 receiving free admission.

Tickets are available for purchase online and at the Strathcona Liquor Store in Victoria, at 919 Douglas Street. You can also snag tickets at the Games gates the day of, but the prices jump up by $5.

Note that the Games accept cash only, but there will be an ATM onsite.

Time to plan your ferry ride over, Vancouver!

160th Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival

When: Saturday, May 20th and Sunday, May 21st
Where: Topaz Park, Victoria
Cost: $15 for one day, $25 for a two-day pass

Curiocity Staff

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