Pipes N' Drums

While a great number of pipe bands exist purely for the enjoyment and performance of the music, playing on parade and in festivals and tattoos, the primary focus for most bands today is competition. Since 1930, when the Scottish Pipe Band Association (Now the Royal SPBA) was formed, there has been an event known as the World Pipe Band Championships held in Glasgow every August. 

Celts Have Talent

To demonstrate that the pipes and drums are not just relegated to a defined set of rules you’ll see that they integrate well with other musical instruments and styles.  VI Caledonia won the 2018 Category A and Qualicum Beach Pipe Band won the Category B

Heavy Games

Highland Games were held long ago by the clans of Northern Scotland but has it’s origins far earlier with the Celts of Ireland in Roman times. Some credit the 11th-century Scottish king, Malcolm Canmore, with initiating the first Highland Games. Contests in running, leaping, vaulting, wrestling, lifting heavy weights and putting stones (as one sees today) were begun more than a thousand years ago.

Highland Dance

Highland dance is a competitive dance form recognized by the Sport Council of Scotland. It requires stamina, strength, and the ability to persevere during extreme bagpipe assault. It often takes place alongside with Highland Games like those happening in Campbell River this year as a part of the annual Salmon Festival Loggers Sports celebration.