The Rituals and Traditions

The rituals found in the games are secular, long-standing, with many different aesthetics (Ritual – Part 1). They have become highly organized and, while looking simple on the outside, are very complex to keep going (part of the reason for the decrease in the number of games annually). The following are some of the rituals that take place (Dawn 2014) (Jemima 2022) -  

Opening Ceremonies - 

• Procession of the Massed Bands  

• The Clan March  

• A welcome from the Chief or representative of the games. 

• A prayer or blessing 

• Playing of the national anthem 

• Welcoming of an honored guest 

Ceremonial Events -  

• Opening of the Games 

• Raising of the Clan flags 

Cultural Events -  

• Highland dancing 

• Bagpipe and drumming performances 

• Haggis hurling 

Athletic Competitions -  

• Caber Toss  

• Stone Put 

• Hammer Throw  

• Weight for Height  

• Tug o’war 

• Hill race 

Closing Ceremony -  

• Awards 

• Closing remarks 

• Massed Bands finale.