Alaska Scottish Highland Games returning to the fairgrounds

WASILLA — The 2022 Alaska Scottish Highland Games is returning to the Alaska State Fairgrounds Saturday, June 25, and Sunday, June 26.

According to the Alaskan Scottish Club Executive Director, Jeni McDaniel, about 115 athletes signed up for this year’s event. She said that’s one of the largest fields of competitors they’ve seen since the annual tradition started 41 years ago.

The Highland Games feature a variety of traditional Scottish games that involve feats of strength and skill. Alaskan athletes from all walks of life and experience levels come from across the state to compete in games such as axe throwing, the sheaf toss, the caber toss, and the Challenge Stone.

The uniquely Alaskan Salmon Toss event draws a lot of local and international interest, according to McDaniel. She added that the annual Tug-of-War event is a massively popular crowd favorite each year.

“It’s so popular. It’s so fun to watch,” McDaniel said.

The Alaskan Scottish Club hosts the Highland Games to bring “all things Scottish” in one place. Whether it’s watching the athletic events, participating in a scotch tasting, listening to Celtic pipe and drum bands, browsing through a spectrum of local vendors’ wares, or giving children the opportunity to compete in youth competitions and events, there’s something for all ages.

McDaniel said they introduced a junior division in the 2021 Highland Games. She said they have a large number of youth athletes that are participating this year.

“We’re really excited to see that growing in this sport,” McDaniel said.

According to McDaniel, this annual event draws athletes and spectators from around the world. She said there are a lot of regulars in the highland game community who make their way to Palmer, Alaska each year.

The Highland Games also draw a lot of musical talent from across the country. McDaniel said this year’s lineup features an exciting variety of acts ranging from traditional Celtic music to modern rock. She said the highly popular band, The Harp Twins is returning after a massive amount of requests.

“It’s just a lot of fun for everyone there,” McDaniel said.

The 2022 Highland Games will also feature a cooking demonstration by 2016 Master Chef winner Gary McLean.

“We’re really excited to have him,” McDaniel said.

According to McDaniel, about 150 vendors have signed up for this year’s event. She said that many of the vendors, visitors, and athletes have enjoyed having an additional day.

She said they plan to keep holding a two-day event each year to accommodate the continuous growth. She said the Fairgrounds is an ideal venue for the Highland Games.

“It still gives us lots of room to grow,” McDaniel said. “I honestly cannot imagine a better place for us to hold this event.”

For more information, visit alaskanscottish.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com