Get ready for kilts, bagpipes, and a brand-new tradition in Decatur. On March 14–15, 2026, the North Alabama Scottish Festival & Highland Games will officially rehome to Point Mallard Park, bringing the sights, sounds, and spirit of Scotland to North Alabama for a weekend packed with heritage and community celebration.

This festival is more than an athletic event — it’s a living tribute to centuries-old Scottish traditions. From clan representatives sharing family histories to the unmistakable sound of pipe bands echoing across the park, the weekend will immerse visitors in a vibrant celebration of culture. The Highland Games themselves are the heartbeat of the festival, showcasing incredible feats of strength like the hammer throw, stone putting, sheaf toss, and the iconic caber toss. Watching an athlete lift and flip a towering wooden caber end-over-end is an unforgettable sight, requiring not just power but balance, precision, and skill.

The 2026 festival also ushers in exciting milestones, including its designation as the new home of the prestigious United States Eastern Women’s Highland Games Championship. In addition, children will have the opportunity to participate in their own age-appropriate games, creating an experience that honors tradition while welcoming the next generation.



Beyond the competitions, the festival offers rich cultural experiences through music, dance, and storytelling. Pipe bands and folk musicians will perform throughout the weekend, Highland dancers will showcase their artistry, and guests will have the opportunity to connect with Scottish heritage in meaningful and interactive ways.

What makes this event especially unique is its setting in Decatur. The North Alabama Scottish Festival blends global tradition with Southern hospitality, creating an atmosphere that feels both authentic and warmly local. Visitors from across the region — and beyond — will gather to celebrate, strengthening community ties while elevating Decatur’s growing reputation as a destination for dynamic events.

If you’re looking for a weekend filled with energy, tradition, music, and family-friendly fun, this is your invitation. Mark your calendar for March 14–15, 2026, and join us at Point Mallard Park as we welcome this beloved cultural tradition to its new home in Decatur. Wear your tartan, bring your friends, and experience the magic of Scotland right here in the heart of Alabama. Slàinte!