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Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing

Highland Dancing is one of the oldest forms of dance. Accompanied by Highland Bagpipes, it is a style of competitive solo dancing developed over the centuries in the Scottish Highlands. Over 100 dancers from the UK and beyond attend the Gathering to compete for the prestigious ‘Silver Medal’.

Convener: Euan Fraser, Braemar Royal Highland Society, Committee Member

For many years, this was a male-dominated sport but with the introduction of the Aboyne dress, women began to compete regularly and the sport is now dominated by women competitors.

The Highland Dancing at Braemar Gathering is an integral part of the day, and takes place in full view of the crowd. With the dancing board prominent in the middle of the arena, the dancers can be instantly recognised for their colourful tartan outfits. The dancing normally commences just after 10am and continues until around 5pm.

The competition will always include a fine display of highland dances, from the Highland Fling to the Sailors Hornpipe, and several more intricate traditional dances. Our competitors range from small children right through to adults competing in various age groups for a range of trophies and medals.

If you would like more information regarding competing at Braemar Gathering please contact the Gathering Secretary: secretary@braemargathering.org

Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing
Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing
Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing
Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing
Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing
Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing
Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing
Braemar Gathering Highland Dancing

Highland Dancing Entry Form

Complete the following form and press 'Submit' to enter the highland dancing events desired.
Entries must be received by the 31st May 2026.
date of birth

Are you a local or open competitor?

OPEN Sections

Open entry information:
a. 20 dancers will be selected for each dance, the selection will be determined by the merit of the dancers records. Selected dancers will be notified by mid-June.
b. Entry will close on the 31st May
c. Dancers will be advised 2-3 weeks after the entry closes if they have been accepted to compete.
d. Braemar Gathering welcomes all dancers to compete, however, please be aware this may affect your standing with the SOBHD rulings. Please check with your dance teacher.
e. Dress is highland dress except for Scottish National, Sailors Hornpipe and the Irish Jig.
f. Competition fee: payment when entering the Gathering is the competition entry fee.

LOCAL Sections

Local competitor qualification:
a. They are ordinary members of the Society of any age, and sons or daughters of ordinary members.
b. They have had for at least one year at the date of the gathering their principle or permanent residence within the following postal areas namely; AB34 4; AB34 5; AB36; PH10 7QB; PH10 7QD; PH10 7QE.
c. They were born to parents permanently resident in Braemar at the time of birth.
d. Competition fee: payment when entering the Gathering is the competition entry fee.

Data privacy: please note that personal details will be held by the Braemar Royal Highland Charity only. We will retain this information until the following years gathering after which it will be deleted. Data held will not be shared or used for any other purpose.

Please indicate whether you need a competitors car park pass. Please share transport where possible.