The Antigonish Highland Games in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, have been named Event of the Year at the 15th annual Buoy Awards. The award was presented on April 16, 2026, by Coastal Nova Scotia at the Pictou County Wellness Center to recognize the festival’s ongoing contribution to the province.
As the oldest continuous Highland Games held outside of Scotland, the festival has been a staple in the community since 1863. The event is organized by the Antigonish Highland Society, which has worked to support Gaelic language, piping, Highland dancing, and athletics for over 160 years. The society is preparing for its upcoming season.
The 161st edition of the games is set to take place at Columbus Field from July 5-12, 2026. The week-long celebration will feature a variety of traditional activities, including Highland dancing, solo piping and drumming, pipe bands, Scottish heavy events, road races, tug-of-war, clan gatherings, ceilidhs, and concerts.
This year’s festivities are presented by the MacLeod Group. Organizers expect the award to bring increased interest to the summer event, which serves as a significant draw for both local residents and visitors to Antigonish.
