The origins of the Cambridge Scottish Festival can be traced back to Duncan and Janet MacLachlan. Emigrating to Canada in 1954, the MacLachlans were active in the Region’s Scottish community. Duncan helped found the Highland Fusiliers Band, the Kitchener Legion Band and the Waterloo Regional Police Pipe Band, while Janet started Highland dance schools in London, Kitchener, Woodstock and Stratford.
In 1975 the MacLachlans founded the Cambridge Highland Games. In the nearly 50 years since then, the Games have become one of the premier summer events in the City of Cambridge and Region of Waterloo, bringing both colour and pageantry to the area. In 2016 the name was changed to the Cambridge Scottish Festival to reflect its gradual evolution to a week-end event with a wide range of activities and attractions.
The Highland dancers, the massed bands, the heavy events and of course the bagpipes and drums, continue to provide a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends celebrating not only Scottish culture and history, but also the very best Cambridge has to offer.
If you have any questions, you can reach us at: info@cambridgescottishfestival
F.A.Q.
Q: What time do the gates open?
A: Friday night @ 5:45pm, Saturday @ 7am
Q: Are tickets available the day of?
A: You bet! Each of our gates will be selling tickets day of. They can be purchased with cash, debit or credit.
Q: Will there be an ATM available on site?
A: ATMs can be found in the main entrance to the Duncaun MacIntosh Arena and inside the beer tent.
Q: Are outside food & drinks permitted at the event?
A: Outside food & drinks are permitted (no outside alcohol). We will also have food & drinks from lots of great vendors for purchase day of.
Q: Is camping available?
A: Unfortunately, camping is not available at this time. If you’re looking for accommodations there are many hotels nearby.
Q: Are pets allowed at the event?
A:Pets are allowed at our festival. We know your furry loved ones will be on their best behavior. This year look for our new addition called “Wooftain”, it will premier at our 2025 festival.
Q: I’d like to attend the Friday night concert but don’t have a sitter for my children. Are they welcome to the concert?
A: Yes, children are welcome at the concert.
Q: Do you offer discounts for large groups, seniors or groups with disabilities?
A: If you’re looking to purchase tickets for a group of 10 or more people, or for senior groups/disability groups, feel free to email us at info@cambridgescottishfestival.ca and we can discuss our discounts available.
Q: How accessible is the event?
A: We aim to provide as much accessibility as feasible for the park:
- There is disabled parking available (please show your pass to the parking attendants on arrival)
- Accessible washrooms available inside the Duncaun McIntosh Arena
- The event is on solid flat ground but grassy
Q: My child is competing in the highland dancing and I would like to set-up a tent prior, when and where can I do so?
A: At this time, individuals are welcome to come set-up their tents on the Friday prior to 4pm in our designated parent space. After 4pm, you will be required to pay the entrance fee for the Friday night event.
Q: Where is the event location?
A: Both the Friday & Saturday events take place at Churchill Park in Cambridge. For parking, you’ll want to make your way to the entrance at 200 Christopher Drive, Cambridge:
Q: My child is competing in the highland dancing and I would like to set-up a tent prior, when and
where can I do so?
A: At this time, individuals are welcome to come set-up their tents on the Friday prior to 4pm in our
designated parent space. After 4pm, you will be required to pay the entrance fee for the Friday night
event.
Q: Where is the event location?
A: Both the Friday & Saturday events take place at Churchill Park in Cambridge. For parking, you’ll want
to make your way to the entrance at 200 Christopher Drive, Cambridge: