Frequently Asked Questions about The Scottish Games

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The 160th annual Scottish Highland Gathering & Games will take place on Labor Day weekend (September 5 & 6), 2026.

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

Early bird tickets for the 160th annual Scottish Highland Gathering & Games are available for online purchase here. 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.

Early bird ticket prices are available for purchase online up to the end of July. Therefore, purchasing tickets in advance at 'earlybird' prices means they can be acquired at a lower cost.

The Fairgrounds no longer operates a box-office service, but tickets may be purchased online in advance or online on-site day-of by one of the provided QR codes at the gates (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! Each day, the Kilted Mile Race, the March of the Clans, the Opening Ceremonies, the afternoon Heavy Athletics, and the Closing Ceremonies all take place in front of the main Grandstand.

Yes, but only for participants 21 and over with valid entrance ticket. Whisky Tasting tickets are available for online purchase on the 160th Scottish Games ticketing site.

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, 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.

In keeping with our 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.