Feel the Thunder of the Arkansas Highland Games
1 /
The ground shakes. The crowd roars. A caber turns end over end against the Arkansas sky.
On June 6-7, the Arkansas Highland Games transform the rolling hills of Mount Vernon into a powerful celebration of Scottish strength, heritage and high-energy competition. Hosted at Arkansas’ only permanent Renaissance village, this is more than an event – it’s something you step into.
Watch elite athletes compete in legendary tests of strength like the caber toss, hammer throw and sheaf toss – or take your shot yourself. Many competitions are open to the public, giving you the chance to step into the arena and become part of the action.
And when the competition pauses, the festival continues.
The entire village comes alive with entertainment across multiple stages throughout the weekend. Music, performances and roaming cast of characters fill the streets, creating an immersive world where something is always happening around the next corner. From the sound of bagpipes to the energy of live shows, the experience carries far beyond the competition field.
Beyond the feats of strength, the festival offers a deep dive into Celtic culture. Meet Scottish clan representatives, explore heritage and history, and feel the rhythm of traditional music and dance echoing across the village of Dragonstone Springs. Don’t forget to explore the artisan vendor booths offering handcrafted goods and Celtic-inspired wares.
Come hungry. The experience isn’t complete without hearty, festival-style fare inspired by the British Isles. Think savory meat pies, fresh baked goods, sweet treats and other crowd favorites. For those looking to make the weekend even more memorable, events like tea with the Queen or other immersive experiences offer a unique way to step further into the world of the festival.
Whether you come for the competition, the culture or the atmosphere, the Arkansas Highland Games deliver a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else in the Natural State.