Cowal attracts more than 3500 competitors - many from Scottish Communities-in-exile as far flung as British Columbia (Canada), Australia and New Zealand. It also attracts in the region of 23,000 visitors over the three days, many of whom return year after year for the unique Cowal atmosphere.
With its mix of Highland Dancing, pipe bands, wrestling, heavy athletics, solo piping, the ceilidh tent, a childrens tent and quality food from the best of local producers there really is something for everyone.
If you have never visited before and can only manage one day, the Saturday is the day to come. Watch the top highland dancers in the world compete in the finals of the world highland dancing championships, whilst nearby the 130 pipe bands compete in the Cowal pipe band championships.
The Cowal Pipe Band competition will get off to a later start this year, kicking off at 10.30, and will take place on the arenas spread throughout the stadium. As always the grade 1 competition will be the one to watch with some of the best bands in the world competting on the Grade 1 arena in front of East Stand around 2.30pm.
Around midday the heavy athletics (sponsored by Corona Extra) get under way with the best of our homegrown scottish competitors toughing it out against some of the best athletes from europe.
Not far from the heavy arena you will find the wrestlers, who this year will include competitors from France and finland as well as our Scottish and English competitors. Once again the fate fo the Scottish Championship at 15st 7lbs will be decided at Cowal.
Up on the hill stands the very popular Ceilidh tent (sponsored by McArthur Property Group) which starts at 12 noon. Acts will be confirmed here shortly.
Finally down on the main arena the bands will be massing for the spectacular and spine tingling salute to the Chieftain. The sound of 3000 pipers and drummers playing in unison is something that, once heard, will live with you forever.
Cowal Gathering
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