Scottish Festival and Highland Games

The Chicago Scots are proud to welcome you to the 40th Annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games, returning June 12–13, 2026, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds in Wheaton. Join us for a memorable two-day celebration of Scottish culture, tradition, music, competition, and family fun as one of the Midwest’s premier summer festivals marks this milestone anniversary.

In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Chicago Scots will honor the generations who have served in the United States military by recognizing veterans as the Honored Clan of the 2026 Games. Veterans representing every branch of service will lead the Parade of Tartans during Saturday’s opening ceremonies, joined by a special Armed Forces Medley performed by world champion piper Dave Johnston.

This year, Friday becomes a full day of festival activities, competitions, entertainment, and attractions, capped off by a lively Friday night ceilidh. Throughout the weekend, guests can enjoy the largest pipe band competition in North America, featuring more than 50 bands and a rare U.S. appearance by four-time World Champion Inveraray & District Pipe Band, along with Heavy Athletics, Highland Dancing, Celtic music, Dogs of Scotland, a British Car Show, genealogy, whisky tastings, Scottish food, and a bustling marketplace. Saturday evening will also feature a special watch party as Scotland opens its FIFA World Cup campaign against Haiti.

All proceeds from the weekend benefit Chicago Scots and its principal charity, Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care. Founded in 1845, Chicago Scots is the oldest not-for-profit organization in Illinois and proudly nourishes Scottish identity through service, fellowship, and celebration.

For information on more events like this, check out our roundup of Summer Festivals.