11 Reasons to Attend Shanghai's 1st Highland Games

By T+ Tickets, September 10, 2025

We're just a few days out!

This Saturday, September 13, Shanghai Scottish is proud to present Shanghai’s First Highland Games at Nord Anglia International School (NAIS) Pudong.

A one-of-a-kind Scottish spectacle, here are 11 reasons why it is a not-to-be-missed occasion...

1. Opening Ceremony

The day will kick off in style with a pipe band Opening Ceremony, setting the scene for a full program of competition.

2. Honorary Chieftain

Image via Shanghai American School, of which Barr is an alumni, attending between 1946-49

Helping open the games is Honorary Chieftain for the event, 92-year old Scot Betty Barr, who has been living in Shanghai for over 50 years and has some amazing stories to tell.

3. Ceilidh Band & Traditional Dancing

The Tipsy Fiddler Ceilidh Band will be performing for most of the afternoon, and will be inviting everybody to join them for a Traditional Scottish Dance!

The Band is there thanks to generous sponsor Continuum Scotland.

4. Pipe Band & Highland Dancers

The Nord Anglia Chinese International School Pipe Band will also be performing on stage alongside Highland Dancers.

5. Bagpipe Competition

Speaking of pipes, there will also be a bagpiping competition showcasing musical talent from across the city, with the Overall Champion Piper winning a Kimpton Qiantan Shanghai one night stay with breakfast for two.

6. The Events

Athletes will take on four classic challenges: Caber Toss, Tyre Flip, Weights for Distance, and Hammer Throw, with the top prize of a golf lesson with Scottish PGA Pro Golfing Coach Michael Dickie worth over RMB3,000 up for grabs.

7. Kids Activities

It’s not just for the grown-ups—there’ll be activities and mini-sports for kids, so the whole family can join the fun.

8. Haggis Pizza

It wouldn’t be a proper Highland gathering without a bit o' feastin'—Homeslice will be serving up Scottish-inspired treats like Haggis Pizza, while Breakfast Champion prepare hearty classics including Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, and Black Pudding.

9. Irn-Bru

To complete the full Caledonian experience, Homeslice will be giving away shots of Irn-Bru with every slice of Haggis Pizza.

Irn-Bru is a classic, bright orange soft drink, and a source of national pride due to being “Made in Scotland from Girders.”

100% true story.

10. Deep-Fried Mars Bars

Completing the Caledonian consumption trifecta is, of course, the Deep-Fried Mars Bar.

We've said it before, and we'll say it again: the Deep-Fried Mars Bar is a God-tier culinary innovation.

Just look at that picture above.

11. Raffle

Finally, there will also be a raffle with snazzy prizes, including a free night with breakfast and afternoon tea at Regent Shanghai On The Bund, and plenty more besides.

So there you have it: Bring your friends and family, and experience the thrill, food, music, and fun of the Highlands—right here in Shanghai!