Nairn Highland Games 2026: Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit

Nairn Highland Games 2026: Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit

The countdown is officially on! In less than a month, the Nairn highland Games makes a return.  It is one of the Scottish Highlands’ most anticipated summer events, bringing a day of Scottish tradition, sporting, music and community spirit to the town.

We always look forward to Games Day and although we’re fully booked this year (thank you to everyone who has chosen to stay with us!), we couldn’t miss the opportunity to celebrate one of Nairn’s biggest annual events and share why it’s such a fantastic occasion for both visitors and locals alike.

Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying with us for longer, the Nairn Highland Games is an unforgettable experience.


What to Expect at the Nairn Highland Games

The Nairn Highland Games have been entertaining visitors for generations and remain one of the highlights of the summer calendar in the Scottish Highlands.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Heavy events, including the famous caber toss and hammer throw
  • Traditional Highland dancing competitions
  • Performances from pipe bands and solo pipers
  • Athletics and track events
  • Food stalls and refreshments
  • Family-friendly entertainment
  • A welcoming atmosphere that celebrates Scottish heritage and Highland culture

Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning as part of a family tradition, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.


Things to Do in Nairn During the Highland Games

If you’re travelling to Nairn for the Games, why not spend a little extra time exploring the beautiful seaside town? We have a number of blog posts detailing all that Nairn has to offer:

Restaurants and Cafes

Nairn Beach

Walks

Wildlife Watching

Golf Courses

Wild Swimming

Whisky Distilleries

Paddleboarding


Why You Should Visit the Nairn Highland Games

One of the things we love most about the Nairn Highland Games is how they bring together visitors and the local community.

You’ll experience genuine Highland hospitality, friendly faces and traditions that have been passed down through generations. It’s a wonderful introduction to Scottish culture, whether you’re travelling from elsewhere in the UK or visiting from overseas.


Explore More of the Scottish Highlands

Many visitors use Nairn as a base to explore some of the Highlands’ most famous attractions.

Within easy driving distance you’ll find:

  • Inverness
  • Culloden Battlefield
  • Cawdor Castle
  • Loch Ness
  • The Cairngorms National Park
  • Fort George
  • Chanonry Point, one of the best dolphin spotting locations in Scotland

Staying in Nairn allows you to combine a visit to the Highland Games with some of Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites.


Planning Your Trip to the Nairn Highland Games

This year’s Games have proved incredibly popular and accommodation across Nairn fills up well in advance. We were fortunate to be fully booked early, which shows just how much people enjoy visiting during this fantastic weekend.

If you’d like to stay with us for next year’s Nairn Highland Games or for other popular events in Nairn we’d recommend booking early. Summer weekends, festivals and major local events are always in high demand.


Frequently Asked Questions About the Nairn Highland Games

When are the Nairn Highland Games held?

The Nairn Highland Games are held annually during the summer. This year the Games are taking place on the 15th August. Check the official event website for this year’s programme.

Where are the Nairn Highland Games?

The Games take place in Nairn, on the park area called Nairn Links.

Is parking available?

Yes. Parking is usually available around the town, although it can become busy on Games Day, so arriving early is recommended. Parking is available closeby at Viewfield House for £5- the Games can then be watched for free!

Are the Nairn Highland Games suitable for families?

Absolutely. The Games offer entertainment for all ages, including athletics, Highland dancing, pipe bands, food stalls and traditional Scottish sporting events.

What else can I do while visiting Nairn?

Many visitors combine the Games with trips to Inverness, Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield, the Cairngorms National Park and the beautiful beaches around Nairn.


We Hope You Enjoy the Nairn Highland Games

Whether you’re visiting Nairn for the Highland Games, a summer holiday or simply passing through, we hope you have an unforgettable time exploring this beautiful corner of the Scottish Highlands.

If you’re planning a future visit to Nairn, we’d love to welcome you for your next Highland adventure.

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