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If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Scottish Highlands without leaving KwaZulu-Natal, the Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering is about as close as it gets!
Set in the rolling hills of the KZN Midlands, this much-loved annual event returns on Saturday, 1 August 2026. And the scenery is so on point you might genuinely think you’ve landed somewhere near Braemar… just with better weather and far more chances of sunshine!
Held at the historic Fort Nottingham Museum and surrounds, this year’s gathering is extra special, marking 170 years of the old Fort. Expect a day packed with heritage and full Highland spectacle, all wrapped in a warm Midlands welcome.
READ: Hilton Arts Festival adds KZN Art Fair and Geek Zone to biggest programme yet
Experience tradition and tartan
Inspired by the world-famous Braemar Gathering, Fort Nottingham brings Celtic culture to life with a proudly local twist. You’ll find the full Highland experience here:
- Highland Games: The caber toss, hammer throw, stone put, weight over the bar, walk the weight, tug o' war and the kilted mile.
- Highland Dancing: Showcasing the grace and precision of traditional Celtic dance.
- Pipe Bands: Coming from the Durban and Pietermaritzburg Caledonian Societies, including stage performances, marching displays and a spectacular massed band performance during the opening ceremony.
- Food Stalls and Artisan Markets: Everything from local Midlands favourites to Scottish-inspired treats.
- Whisky Tasting and Talks: Celebrating Scotland's famous national drink.
- Family-Friendly Entertainment: Enjoyed throughout the day.
Plenty to see beyond the games
The day's formal proceedings begin at 11.15am, with a procession of dignitaries into the arena before uMngeni Municipality Mayor Chris Pappas officially welcomes guests.
Visitors can also enjoy:
- The traditional Address to the Haggis, complete with poetry, procession, whisky and a public tasting.
- Children's tug o' war and sack races.
- A Knight Security K9 agility display.
- Medieval sword-fighting demonstrations.
- Firefighter and fire truck displays from Mooi River.
- A motorcycle drive-past.
And because it’s Women’s Month, the 2026 edition also shines a spotlight on the leadership and contribution of women across sport, culture and community life…with both male and female athletes and dancers taking centre stage.
What you need to know
- Event: Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering
- Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026
- Time: 8am to 5pm
- Venue: Fort Nottingham Museum & surrounds, Fort Nottingham, KZN Midlands
- Parking: R20 per vehicle (payable at gate)
- Children: Under 12 enter free
- Tickets: Via Quicket | Early bird specials available
- Information: Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering Facebook and Instagram pages
Whether you’re there for the athletics, the bagpipes, the food, or just the view, the Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering is a great reason to get out and explore this part of KZN.
READ: Music on the River returns to the KZN Midlands for a magical day of live music
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