Blue River Highland Games and Festival
- Dates
- Expected May 2027
- Status
- Expected
- Venue
- Shelby County Fairgrounds
- Price
- Free
- Camping
- None on site
- Last checked
- Oct 16, 2026
Blue River Highland Games and Festival's 2027 dates haven't been announced yet. The last festival was 16 May 2026 in Shelbyville, IN. Froligo tracks free-entry details, attendee feedback and travel details.
The experience
What's special
The Blue River Highland Games and Festival brings a day of Scottish heritage to the Shelby County Fairgrounds in Shelbyville, Indiana, about half an hour from Indianapolis. Run by the Shelbyville Parks and Recreation Department, the free festival pairs a nine-event Highland heavy-athletics competition, including the caber toss, with bagpipes, Highland dancing, whisky tasting, more than 50 vendors and a family-friendly kids' area
Last time around (2025)
The 2025 Blue River Highland Games and Festival ran Saturday, May 17, 2025 at the Shelby County Fairgrounds, a day of Scottish tradition, culture and athleticism presented by Current Mortgage
The games
Heavy athletics
The games feature nine Highland heavy events contested by more than 60 athletes, with the caber toss among the featured competitions
Pipe bands & Highland dance
Bagpipe music and traditional Highland dancing accompany the athletics through the day
Taking part
Free admission includes whisky tasting, more than 50 vendors, a kids' area with games and bounce houses, and live music; the parks department also runs a free throwing clinic to teach the basics of Highland Games throwing
See it before you go
A look at the Highland Games in general, not this specific event.
Getting there
Nearest airport IND.
How do I get to Blue River Highland Games and Festival?
By car
Most people drive to Blue River Highland Games and Festival. The nearest major airport is IND, and from there it is a straightforward drive to the venue. Check current road and traffic conditions before you set off, and see parking below.
By train
No direct passenger rail to the venue was found. Drive, fly in, or use a shuttle instead.
By bus & public transit
No scheduled intercity bus or public transit route to the venue was found. Drive, fly in, or use a shuttle instead.
Taxi & rideshare
Taxis and rideshare such as Uber and Lyft can be limited near the venue, especially late at night or in rural areas. Agree a pickup point and time in advance and keep a backup plan.
🚙 Car hire
Compare car hire at IND
If you are hiring a car, it is worth checking parking near the venue before you go.
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Where
Map shows the centre of Shelbyville. The venue's exact point is not confirmed yet.
Venue
Shelby County Fairgrounds
Camping & Accommodation
Where can I stay near Blue River Highland Games and Festival?
No on site camping. Here is where to stay nearby.
Airport hotels 3
8010 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46231
Link coming soon2750 Fortune Circle West, Indianapolis, IN 46241
Link coming soon2730 Fortune Circle West, Indianapolis, IN 46241
Link coming soonHotel links may earn Froligo a commission; they never change the price you pay.
Pricing
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