Frequently Asked Questions about The Scottish Games

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The 159th annual Scottish Highland Gathering & Games will take place on Labor Day Weekend - August 30-31, 2025

At the Alameda county Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, CA - See Fairgrounds Map

Gates open at 8:00am and will close following Games Closing Ceremonies around 6pm each Games day, admission gates will close promptly at 4:30pm

Tickets for the 159th annual Scottish Highland Gathering & Games will be available for online purchase in the spring of 2025. Please note that there will be  no physical tickets to purchase on-site at the Fairgrounds. However, guests can scan via QR code to purchase a ticket online at the gates (Credit card only for on-site transactions)

Yes, all entrants to the Fairgrounds require a valid entrance ticket - that includes FREE tickets for children aged 5 and under.

Yes, all entrants to the Fairgrounds require a valid entrance ticket - that includes FREE tickets for serving military with valid ID.

Ticket prices are due to increase closer to Labor Day Weekend. Therefore, purchasing tickets before the increase (scheduled for August 17) means they can be acquired at a lower (pre-increase) cost.

No, tickets may be purchased online in advance or online on-site day of by one of the provided QR codes or gate staff (Credit card only for on-site transactions)

Entrance to the Fairgrounds will be via the YELLOW, GREEN and RED gates -  - See Fairgrounds Map

Yes, with a valid hand stamp provided by security until 5:30pm

Yes, grandstand seating (including box seating) is available at no charge! The Kilted Mile race, afternoon heavy athletics and Games opening and closing ceremonies will take place in front of the main grandstand. 

Yes, but only for participants 21 and over with valid entrance ticket. Whisky Tasting tickets will be available for sale nearer Labor Day Weekend.

See the ‘Getting Here’ page on the Alameda County Fairgrounds website

Yes, there are ample parking facilities. Purchase your parking in advance to save time at the gates. (Credit card only for on-site transactions) - See Fairgrounds Event Parking

Yes, if prepared food contained in a soft cooler or insulated bag - See the Fairgrounds Safety and Rules

As per Fairgrounds Safety and Rules,  no alcohol, or any drinks in glass containers, are permitted

Yes, there will be a variety of vendors with a choice of food and drinks (water, soft & alcohol) for sale throughout the Games

No, as per Fairgrounds Safety and Rules, only service dogs are permitted into the Fairgrounds

 Yes. knives and swords - only as part of Scottish Highland dress - are permissible for entry the Games.

Yes, there are Celtic animals, birds of prey and living history exhibitions and demonstrations, face painting and a 'Passport to the Clans' where children can win a special prize. See each of the events pages to learn more.

Yes, RV camping facilities (only) are available at the Fairgrounds' Fairpark RV site.

Oh yes! In keeping with Games tradition, the Massed Bands will prominently feature as part of the Closing Ceremonies which will start around 4:00pm each day in the main grandstand arena