Highland Dancing

Scottish Highland Dancing is a powerful and athletic art form rooted in centuries of Scottish history, combining precise technique, strength, and grace with the stirring sound of the bagpipes. Traditionally performed at Highland Games, these dances were once displays of agility and endurance before clan chiefs and kings. Today, they continue to celebrate Scottish heritage through dynamic movements, crisp footwork, and the swirl of the kilt.

From the iconic Highland Fling to the dramatic Sword Dance, Highland Dancing tells stories of triumph, resilience, and tradition—bringing the spirit of the Highlands to life for audiences of all ages. At the Middle Tennessee Highland Games, dancers from across North America and of all levels will compete and through their dancing connect past to present, honoring Scotland’s cultural legacy while showcasing the dedication and athleticism of today’s dancers.

Join us along the bonnie shores of Old Hickory Lake and enjoy a fun and supportive event for all levels and ages. Following the competition, a workshop will be held with the judge on the platform.

Schedule:

Saturday, September 12

8:30 AM Registration for all dancers

9:00 AM Competition begins for all dancers

2:30 PM Workshop with Judge (complementary for all dancers registered for competition, fee for non-registered dancers)

2026 Events to Enter:

PRIMARY

• 16 PdBs;16 PdB & Hicuts (4x); Fling (4); Sword (2&1)

BEGINNER

• Lilt (4); Flora (4); Fling (4); Sword (2&1); Seann Triubhas (3&1)

BEGINNER TROPHY FLING

• Trophy Fling (4) (All Ages) ($5 Add’l Entry Fee)

NOVICE

• Lilt (4); Flora (4); Fling (4); Sword (2&1); Seann Triubhas (3&1)

NOVICE TROPHY FLING

• Trophy Fling (4) (All Ages) ($5 Add’l Entry Fee)

INTERMEDIATE

• Lilt (4); Highland Laddie (4); Fling (4); Sword (2&1); Seann Triubhas (3&1)

INTERMEDIATE CHALLENGE DANCE

• Hornpipe Challenge (4) (All Ages) (Add’l $5 Entry Fee)

PREMIER

• Lilt (4); Flora (4); Fling (4); Sword (2 &1); Seann Triubhas (3&1)

PREMIER CHALLENGE DANCE

• Scotch Measure Challenge Dance (4) (All ages) ($5 Add’l Entry Fee)