The games also include Scottish variants on familiar Olympic events like shot put and hammer throw. In fact, it is claimed that the Highland Games, as displayed at the Paris Exhibition of 1889, were one of Baron Pierre de Coubertin’s inspirations for the modern revival of the Olympic Games.

In addition to displays of strength and athleticism, the games also feature celebrations of Scottish and Celtic culture, including massive bagpipes performances and “sword dances,” where a dancer leaps and twirls over a pair of crossed swords.

With the global diaspora of Scots and Celts, Highland Games have spread widely, and are today held around the world, from Europe and North America to New Zealand and Brazil.