Celebrate Scottish culture in Port Hope at the Northumberland Scottish Festival and Highland Games! This annual festival fills Port Hope Agricultural Park with the sound of pipe and drum bands, the energy of Highland dancing, the excitement of heavy events, Celtic music, vendors and family fun.
The 62nd Northumberland Scottish Festival and Highland Games takes place June 19 and 20, 2026. Come for the sights and sounds of the Games, cheer on the athletes, watch talented dancers compete and enjoy live ceilidh entertainment throughout the weekend.
Scottish festival highlights in Port Hope
The festival kicks off Friday evening with the Stones of Strength competition and a free ceilidh featuring The Fiddleheads. On Saturday, the park comes alive with pipe and drum bands, Highland dancing, heavy events, food and merchant vendors, Clan Avenue and family-friendly festival experiences. Kids 12 and under are free.
In 2026, the festival will also host the Lakeshore Open Highland Dance Championships, welcoming premier dancers from across Canada and the United States. Saturday entertainment includes a performance by young fiddler Irish Millie, followed by local favourite Madman’s Window after the Highland Games closing ceremonies.
Find the official schedule, ticket information, competition details, entertainment updates and visitor information.
Make a weekend of it with local accommodations close to dining, shopping, trails, heritage streetscapes and Lake Ontario views.
Plan your Highland Games weekend in Port Hope
Looking for more to do while you're here? Turn festival weekend into a Port Hope getaway! Before or after the Highland Games, explore local restaurants and cafés, browse downtown shops, enjoy Port Hope’s arts and culture scene, or spend time outdoors on nearby hiking and biking trails and along the waterfront.
Dates: June 19 and 20, 2026
Location: Port Hope Agricultural Park, 62 McCaul Street, Port Hope
Highlights: Pipe and drum bands, Highland dancing, heavy events, Stones of Strength, free ceilidhs, vendors, Clan Avenue and family entertainment
Good to know: Friday and Saturday ceilidhs are free to attend
Close to Home, Far from Ordinary
Historic Port Hope is Ontario's favourite small town.