Just as the invading Roman legions brought bagpipes to Scotland, the sound of the pipes will invade MacRae Meadows here at the Grandfather Mountain Highland games!

There are many opportunities to see piping and drumming throughout the weekend. We are proud to hold piping and drumming events sanctioned by the Eastern United States Pipe Band Association. Players come from all over the world to compete in different levels ranging from beginners to professionals. These events take place all day Saturday on the east field, the Alex Beaton Stage, and on the hill behind the Alex Beaton stage. Be sure to bring your blanket and settle in on the mountainside to be entertained.

On Sunday afternoon, we host a quartet competition where 4 pipers play up to 2 different sets of music. One is a traditional March, Strathspey, and Reel and the other is a medley arranged by each group and contains different styles of marches and dance music.

If you enjoy the whole band sound, you can watch the Drum Major lead the Massed Bands in a parade around the track on Saturday morning for opening ceremonies and again on Sunday for the Parade of Tartans. Individual bands will be playing periodically around the clan tents throughout the weekend.

We look forward to seeing you on the Meadows this summer.