Let the Highland Games begin!

 

It is not long now till the annual Waipu Highland Games on January 1. In its 148th year this iconic event draws big crowds to watch the big boys compete for the national heavyweight trophies, see Scottish dancing at its highest level with several national championships being competed for, and to hear the highland pipes and drums played at their best.

There will be tug-o-war competitions for the public, along with The Farmers Walk, a challenging heavyweight event. Tartan in the Park is always popular and gives an ideal opportunity for young and old to dress up in their best Scottish or period gear.

McLeod’s Brewery is one of the main sponsors of the day and will have a bar in the main cafe on site. Come and try their prize-winning ales. Vendors galore will provide food for the crowd but feel free to bring a picnic and shelter under the trees while watching all there is to offer.

At lunchtime the massed bands and dancers will play in the main arena and the crowd will accompany the pipes to Flower of Scotland.

Be there for a truly fun day of Scottish highlights. Plenty for the children to do. Entry for children is free.
The day rounds off with a barn dance or Ceilidh of Scottish Dancing called by the well-known Twisty Willow group.  Be there for this iconic Northland event. Mark your calendar now. Check facebook and the web site for full details.

 148th Waipu Highland Games, Caledonian Park, Waipu. Jan 1 2019. Call Pat Hadlee 021 961 238 for details.

It’s a full day celebration of Scottish heritage and culture, and a lot of fun and games. – PHOTO/Supplied