Ballater Highland Games 2024

Over 6500 people from around the world enjoyed another fine day of weather for most of the day.

The Trust was very pleased to welcome the Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire, Sandy Manson, his wife Barbara, and the Chieftain Philip Farquharson. The attendance of Invercauld Highlanders from Canada, USA and Australia was also welcomed and acknowledged by the Trust by presentation of bottles of local gin.

We were privileged to welcome the Lord Lyon King of Arms as our guest. Invited Banner bearers from the Kindred Gatherings and the Heraldry Society of Scotland paraded in front of the Lord Lyon.

The extensive programme of light and heavy events, piping and dancing competitions for all ages and the Balmoral Stones event went well. The attendees were as always kept well informed by Robert Lovie. Tilt the Bucket remains a particularly popular event.

An adult sack race was held to celebrate 160 years was well subscribed with similar support across all competitive open and local events.

A new Ballater Highland Games record was set in the 100 yards by Alan Hamilton – Edinburgh, at 9.72 seconds breaking his own previous record of 9.84 seconds.

We had a great attendance of pipes and drums numbering 14 guest bands alongside our own Ballater and District band.

Again the Games would not have been successful without the Convenors and their helpers, the combined pipe bands, the Royal Guard, our increasing cohort of sponsors, patrons, judges, retailers, entertainment providers, comperes, photographer, first aiders, ambulance service, security and the many other support personnel. Sincere thanks go to all.

The revised layout of Trade Stands with the avenues facing the arena accommodated more stands and made them more accessible was generally welcomed. The extension to Monaltrie Park accommodated a greater number of craft, food and entertainment vendors on the day.

A new system, Starlink, to help with electronic gate payments operated very effectively with no loss of signal.

The Trustees hope that all attendees enjoyed themselves at the Games and look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2025.