Port City Highland Games bring culture and competition

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The sound of bagpipes echoed through Wilmington and kilts were on full display as one of the area’s most unique festivals returned this weekend.

The fifth annual Port City Highland Games brought a taste of Scotland to the Cape Fear region, featuring traditional food, live music, cultural exhibits, and Highland athletic competitions.

Despite rainy conditions, dozens of attendees gathered to enjoy Scottish favorites like shepherd’s pie while watching athletes test their strength in events such as the caber toss, hammer throw, and weight throw.

Organizers say the Highland Games are about more than athletic competition. They hope the event helps preserve Scottish heritage, celebrate the area’s historical ties to Scotland, and bring the community together.

“It feels like a home away from home to come here. Especially as a Scottish person, I feel like I’m back home,” said Daniel Kelly. “It’s really nice to see so many people here and that, after 200 years, people are still celebrating their ancestry.”

This year’s event also benefited paws4vets, a program that helps connect veterans with service dogs and assistance programs.