Watson Lake Park transforms into a Celtic kingdom during the 18th annual Prescott Highland Games & Celtic Faire, where Scottish heritage comes alive through athletic competitions, traditional music, and cultural celebrations that honor centuries-old traditions. The spectacular granite boulder formations surrounding “Loch Watson” create a dramatic backdrop reminiscent of Scotland’s highland landscapes, making this one of the most scenic Highland Games venues in North America. Kilted athletes, thundering pipe bands, and graceful Highland dancers create an authentic Scottish atmosphere that transports visitors across oceans and centuries to experience the pride and pageantry of Celtic culture.
Traditional Highland Athletic Competitions
The games showcase traditional Highland athletic competitions that test strength, skill, and endurance in events that originated centuries ago among Scottish clansmen. Heavy athletics feature the iconic caber toss, where athletes attempt to flip massive wooden poles end-over-end, alongside hammer throws, stone puts, and weight-for-height competitions that demonstrate raw power and technique. The sheaf toss challenges competitors to use pitchforks to launch burlap sacks over increasingly higher bars, while the Highland games’ signature event—tossing the caber—requires perfect timing and strength to achieve the ideal 12 o’clock flip.
Highland Dancing and Artistic Expression
Highland dancing competitions bring graceful artistry to the athletic arena, with dancers performing traditional Scottish dances including the Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Seann Triubhas, and Highland Reel. Competitors in elaborate Highland dress demonstrate precise footwork and artistic expression while maintaining the cultural authenticity that has preserved these dance forms for generations. Age divisions from primary school through adult ensure opportunities for dancers at every level to showcase their skills and compete for prestigious awards.
Pipe Bands and Celtic Music
The massed bands ceremony creates spine-tingling moments as multiple pipe bands unite to perform traditional Scottish airs that echo across Watson Lake. Individual pipe and drum competitions throughout both days highlight the technical mastery required for Highland piping and drumming, while band competitions feature coordinated performances that demonstrate the precision and musical excellence that defines Celtic music traditions. The skirl of bagpipes and the thunder of drums provide a continuous soundtrack that enhances every aspect of the festival experience.
Event Details
Dates: September 27-28, 2025 (Saturday and Sunday)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM both days
Location: Watson Lake Park (“Loch Watson”), Watson Lake Park Road, Prescott, AZ 86301
Admission: $15 for adults, free for children under 5 years
Parking: Free parking available at the venue
Weather: Comfortable September temperatures, bring layers for morning and evening
Contact Information
Phone: (928) 642-0020
Website: prescottareacelticsociety.com
Email: Info@PrescottAreaCelticSociety.com
Organizer: Prescott Area Celtic Society (PACS)
Monthly Meetings: 5:30 PM, 3rd Monday of each month
Facebook: Search “Prescott Highland Games” for updates
Clan Heritage and Cultural Connection
Clan hospitality tents create gathering spaces where visitors can explore Scottish genealogy and connect with their Celtic heritage. Representatives from dozens of Scottish clans provide historical information about clan origins, tartan patterns, and family histories that help visitors trace their Scottish connections. The Celtic Heritage and Information Center offers resources for genealogical research and cultural education that extend learning opportunities beyond the festival itself.
Celtic Marketplace and Shopping
Celtic merchants create a bustling marketplace featuring authentic Scottish imports, including tartans, jewelry, kilts, and traditional Celtic crafts. Local artisans display their work alongside international vendors, creating shopping opportunities that range from affordable souvenirs to museum-quality Highland dress and ceremonial weapons. The whisky tasting seminars and beer gardens feature Scottish and Irish beverages that complement the cultural immersion experience.
Family-Friendly Activities
Family-friendly programming ensures entertainment for all ages through the Children’s Glen, where young visitors can participate in Highland games scaled for smaller participants. Face painting, storytelling, and interactive cultural demonstrations provide educational entertainment while adults enjoy athletic competitions and musical performances. Axe throwing competitions add modern excitement to traditional games, while historical demonstrations showcase medieval Scottish culture and warfare techniques.
Food and Culinary Offerings
Food vendors offer traditional Celtic fare alongside modern festival favorites, ensuring dining options that satisfy every palate. Scottish meat pies, fish and chips, and hearty stews provide authentic flavors, while local Arizona vendors contribute regional specialties that reflect the Southwest’s culinary diversity. The combination of Celtic tradition and southwestern hospitality creates a unique cultural fusion that defines the Prescott Highland Games experience.
Perfect September Setting
The festival’s September timing provides ideal weather conditions with warm days and cool evenings perfect for outdoor activities. Watson Lake’s elevation at 5,400 feet ensures comfortable temperatures while the stunning granite formations and lake views create photography opportunities that capture both the natural beauty of central Arizona and the colorful pageantry of Scottish culture in perfect harmony.
