Highland Gathering returns to Linden

On Saturday,  May 31 the annual Highland Gathering event will be hosted by the De La Salle Pipe Band with an unusually wide range of entertainment.

This year some 25 pipe bands will compete in two competition arenas for trophies, culminating in the grand finale, where more than 200 pipes and drums will join forces as Flower of Scotland and Amazing Grace echo for kilometres around. About 100 Scottish dancers will also fling and reel on an outdoor stage as they vie for prizes.

One new addition to the gathering is Medieval Games, in which the visiting crowds can participate. Among the games will be “tossing the caber”, a hefty log pole which is the Scottish equivalent of an Iron Man competition. The adventurous may want to harness up to try going up in the inflatable rocket ship or try the Greenside Scouts’ obstacle course.

The Robinson Studio will also have a surprise during the Massed Bands finale.

To satisfy the crowd’s thirst, a tea garden, beer tent, crafts market and food stalls will offer a variety of temptations.

The Highland Gathering begins at 9am. at the De La Salle Holy Cross College on Road No 3, Victory Park, and the individual bands will play throughout the day. The massed bands will perform at about 4pm.

Entrance fees are R15 for students and R25 for adults.