Celebrate centuries of Scottish heritage, music, and athletic tradition at the Northeast Florida Scottish Highland Games. This annual cultural gathering brings clans, competitors, musicians, and families together for a full day of spirited competition and Celtic celebration in Northeast Florida.

2026 Dates & Location

Dates: February 28, 2026
Location: Clay County Fairgrounds
Address: 2497 State Road 16 West, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043

Tickets & Admission

Admission is ticketed, with options typically including:

• Adult admission
• Youth and child pricing
• Day-of and advance purchase options

Food, beverages, merchandise, and select activities are available for purchase inside the festival grounds.

What to Expect at the Northeast Florida Scottish Highland Games

This immersive event showcases the strength, skill, and culture of Scotland through athletics, music, and history. Highlights include:

• 🏋️ Traditional Highland Athletics — Events such as the caber toss, hammer throw, and stone put test strength and technique.
• 🎶 Bagpipe & Drum Competitions — Pipe bands and solo performers fill the grounds with iconic Scottish sound.
• 💃 Highland Dancing — Precision footwork and traditional attire on display in judged competitions.
• 🛍️ Clan Village & Cultural Displays — Meet clan representatives, explore genealogy resources, and learn about Scottish history.
• 🍖 Scottish & Festival Fare — Food vendors offering hearty meals and classic festival favorites.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Activities — Interactive experiences and demonstrations designed to engage guests of all ages.

Headliners / Featured Talent

• Highland Games athletic competitors
• Pipe bands and solo bagpipers
• Highland dancers and cultural presenters

(Competition schedules and participant lineups are published by the festival closer to the event.)

Costumes & Festival Spirit

Kilts are encouraged but never required. Many guests wear tartans, clan colors, or Celtic-inspired attire. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended for a full day outdoors.

How to Get There

• Driving: The Clay County Fairgrounds are accessible via State Road 16 and major Northeast Florida routes.
• Parking: On-site parking is available at the fairgrounds during the event.
• Rideshare: Available but limited—driving is recommended.

Where to Stay

Green Cove Springs and nearby Jacksonville offer a range of hotel options. January is a popular time for outdoor festivals in Florida, so booking early is advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the event family-friendly?
Yes. The Northeast Florida Scottish Highland Games are designed to welcome families, children, and first-time visitors.

Is this an outdoor event?
Yes. All competitions and activities take place outdoors.

Do I need to know my clan to attend?
Not at all—Clan Village representatives are happy to help guests learn more about Scottish heritage.

Final Tips

• Arrive early to see the opening ceremonies and full slate of competitions.
• Bring sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles.
• Take time to visit the Clan Village—it’s one of the most educational parts of the event.
• Check the posted schedule on arrival to plan which competitions and performances to catch.

More Events Like This

If you enjoy the Northeast Florida Scottish Highland Games, you might also like:

• Florida Keys Celtic Festival
• Central Florida Scottish Highland Games
• Florida Renaissance Festival

Official Links

🎟️ Official Website: https://neflgames.org/
📍 Clay County Fairgrounds – Green Cove Springs, Florida