Events Timeline 2026
Catch us on the road!
Visit the Cargokilts gazebo at the events listed below to see our craftsmanship in person.
It’s worth noting that we don’t do "mass-produced" or "fast fashion"!
Cargokilts exclusively produces goods that are handcrafted, bespoke, and authentic—built with heirloom-quality durability that stands the test of time.
We take immense pride in preserving artisanal traditions through fair trade practices, ensuring that every stitch supports the people and the heritage behind the garment.
Consequently, to ensure our brand's integrity remains uncompromised, Cargokilts takes a dim view of—and strictly declines participation in—events hosted by marketers and planners who do not actively champion artisanal values and the preservation of handmade goods.
Saturday
March 28, 2026
09:00 – 17:00
Pretoria Old Boys Highland Gathering
- Event Hosts Description: Join us for the PHSOB Highland Gathering — a vibrant celebration of Scottish heritage, music and community spirit. Pipe bands from all over Gauteng will come together for a full day of stirring performances, alongside a Highland Dancing competition showcasing remarkable talent and tradition. Visitors can enjoy the Hazel Food and Arts, Crafts and Culture Market, browse Scottish stalls, and soak up the festive atmosphere in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The day will culminate in the unforgettable Massed Pipes and Drums performance, as all bands unite to play stirring favourites in true Highland style. Bring your friends, bring the family, and come experience the sound and spectacle of the Highlands right here in Pretoria.
- Host Website/Event Page Link
- Entrance Fee: Free! Parking available on field at R50 per car.
- Venue: Pretoria Old Boys Club, 378 Queens Crescent, Pretoria
Saturday
April 18, 2026
09:00 – 18:00
Pirates Highland Gathering 2026 (Regional)
- Event Hosts Description: The 2026 Highland Gathering, presented by The Pipe Bands' Association of Southern Africa, is coming back to Pirates on Saturday the 18th of April. Join us for a day of incredible music from the pipe bands, stunning dancing from the Scottish dancers and even enjoy some shopping at the variety of stalls on offer.
- Host Website/Event Page Link
- Entrance Fee: Free and open to all members of the public.
- Venue: Pirates Club Greenside, 25 Braeside Road, Johannesburg
Saturday
May 2, 2026
08:00 – 18:00
Highland Gathering - Amanzimtoti 2026 (Championship)
- Event Hosts Description: The pipes are calling… and it’s almost time to answer. Join us on Saturday, 2 May 2026, as Hutchison Park transforms once again into a spectacular celebration of Scottish tradition, world-class pipe bands, highland dancing, family entertainment, craft stalls, food, and all the festive energy you’ve come to love. This year promises to be bigger, louder, and more unforgettable than ever. Mark your calendar, gather your clan, and get ready for a full day of music, culture, and community spirit at the 2026 Highland Gathering. Proudly brought to you by the Lions Club Amanzimtoti. Massed Bands: 17h00
- Host Website/Event Page Link
- Ticket Sales Link: R40,00 - R60,00
- Venue: Hutchison Park Sports Grounds, Hutchison Park, 1 Picnic Lane, Amanzimtoti, eManzimtoti
Saturday
May 30, 2026
09:00 – 18:00
De La Salle Highland Gathering 2026 (Regional)
-
Event Hosts Description: The DLSHCC Highland Gathering is a time-honoured tradition that celebrates the rich cultural heritage in our community and our country.
These popular pipe band and highland dancing competitions provide an event that caters for all families.
There are only a few schools in Johannesburg that still have their own pipe bands and De La Salle Holy Cross College is proud to be one of them.
This annual event brings together thousands of attendees from all walks of life, providing a platform for family-friendly entertainment, music, food, stalls and a showcase of diverse traditions.
To keep everyone thoroughly entertained there will be a market, a tea garden as well as the popular beer garden and entertainment for the children - so something for everyone.
Several food vendors will provide food and drink options to cater for every taste.
The highlight of the day is the Massed Bands performance which takes place in the late afternoon.
This is a CASHLESS event. - Host Website/Event Page Link: TBC
- Ticket Sales Link: TBC
- Venue: De La Salle Holy Cross College, 2-22 Road No. 3, Victory Park, Johannesburg
Saturday
June 20, 2026
09:00 – 17:00
Pretoria Boys High School Highland Gathering 2026 (Championship)
-
Event Hosts Description: The Pretoria Boys High School Highland Gathering is back! Proudly hosted by the Pretoria Boys High School Pipe Band, join us on Saturday, 20 June 2026 at PBHS Hofmeyr Oval, PBHS from 09:00–17:00 for a spectacular celebration of Scottish tradition!
What to expect: Live pipe band performances • Traditional Highland dancing • Flea market & craft stalls • Delicious food stalls • Charming tea garden • A day of music, culture, and family fun, don’t miss it! - Host Website/Event Page Link: TBC
-
Entrance Fee: TBC
Adults – R50 • Children – R40
Pensioners – R40
Scholars in uniform – FREE
Tickets available at the gate - Venue: Pretoria Boys High School, Hofmeyr Oval, 251 Roper St, Pretoria
Saturday
July 11, 2026
09:00 – 17:00
Benoni High School Highland Gathering 2026 (Regional Final)
-
Event Hosts Description: The countdown is on! Join us for the Benoni Gathering on 11 July 2026!
This is the second-last competition of the SA season and our Regional Championships!
Expect a full day of pipe bands, highland dancing, food stalls, market vibes, and community spirit at its finest.
Let’s make this one to remember as we gear up for the SA Champs! - Host Website/Event Page Link: TBC
-
Entrance Fee: TBC
Adults: R60 • Pensioners: R30 • Kids U12: FREE
Parking: R20 per vehicle - Venue: Benoni High School, 1 Dalrymple Steet, Northmead, Benoni South, Gauteng
Saturday
July 25, 2026
09:00 – 18:00
SA Pipe Band Championships 2026 at St Benedict’s College
-
Event Hosts Description: The countdown is on! Join us for the Benoni Gathering on 11 July 2026!
This is the second-last competition of the SA season and our Regional Championships!
Expect a full day of pipe bands, highland dancing, food stalls, market vibes, and community spirit at its finest.
Let’s make this one to remember as we gear up for the SA Champs! - Host Website/Event Page Link: TBC
-
Entrance Fee: TBC
Adults: R60 • Pensioners: R30 • Kids U12: FREE
Parking: R20 per vehicle - Venue: Benoni High School, 1 Dalrymple Steet, Northmead, Benoni South, Gauteng
Saturday
August 1, 2026
08:00 – 17:00
Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering 2026
-
Event Hosts Description: The Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering returns on Saturday, 1 August 2026, bringing the colour, power, and pageantry of Scottish tradition to the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Now in its second decade, this beloved annual celebration has become a cornerstone of Midlands culture—uniting families, athletes, dancers, heritage enthusiasts, and visitors from across the province.
Set against the historic backdrop of the Fort Nottingham Museum, this year’s Gathering carries special significance as we commemorate 170 years of the Fort (1856–2026)—a milestone in the Midlands’ rich frontier history. The event blends the timeless spirit of the Highlands with the warm community character of the Midlands, creating a festival experience unlike any other. -
A Festival of Tradition, Strength, and Community
Visitors can look forward to a full day of authentic Highland experiences, including:
Highland Athletics inspired by the legendary Braemar Games - Caber Toss, Walk the Weight, Stone Put, Weight over the Bar and more.
Highland Dancing featuring talented performers showcasing the grace and precision of Celtic dance.
Pipe Bands and Scottish Pageantry filling the air with the unmistakable sound of the Highlands.
Food Stalls & Artisan Exhibitors offering local flavours, handmade crafts, and traditional Scottish treats.
Family Activities & Community Engagement designed to bring people of all ages together in celebration. -
The Gathering is more than a festival—it is a living tribute to the Scottish settlers who shaped the Midlands and the Province, and a joyful expression of the traditions they carried with them.
Join us for a day where heritage meets celebration, where tradition meets community, and where the Highlands meet the Midlands. Whether you come for the athletics, the music, the food, or the festive atmosphere, the Fort Nottingham Highland Gathering promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family. - Host Website/Event Page Link
- Ticket Sales: Get your Early Bird tickets now!
- Venue: Fort Nottingham Museum, Nottingham Road, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
What is a Highland Gathering?
Highland Gatherings, deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of history, can trace their origins across several centuries. These gatherings, often steeped in Scottish tradition and cultural significance, have stood the test of time, evolving and adapting while preserving the essence of their historical legacy.
Originating in the Scottish Highland regions, these events have served as communal celebrations, bringing together communities to showcase their unique customs, food, music, dance, and sporting competitions. Local artisans and vendors often set up stalls to showcase and sell traditional Scottish crafts, jewelry, and clothing. Highland Gatherings typically feature a variety of Scottish cuisine, offering visitors the chance to indulge in traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). And who can resist Scottish short-bread made with real butter?
Highland Gatherings traditionally include Highland Games. Whilst few of the South African local gatherings include the games, these are fast making a comeback and have increased in popularity over the last few years.
Visitors, as well as participants in the events, often don traditional Scottish attire. Men can be seen wearing kilts, sporrans, and knee-high socks, while women may wear tartan skirts or dresses. The clothing adds to the cultural richness of the event.
The enduring appeal of Highland Gatherings lies in their ability to connect the present with the past, creating a vibrant tapestry that reflects the resilience and continuity of cultural practices through the ages.