San Diego Scottish Highland Games
- Dates
- Expected June 2027
- Status
- Expected
- Venue
- Mission Valley River Park
- Price
- $18 to $20
- Camping
- None on site
- Last checked
- Oct 16, 2026
San Diego Scottish Highland Games comes to Mission Valley River Park, San Diego, CA, Expected June 2027. Froligo tracks current ticket prices, attendee feedback and travel details.
The experience
What's special
The San Diego Scottish Highland Games is a long-running Scottish games and Gathering of the Clans run by a local nonprofit since the 1970s. For 2026 it moved from Brengle Terrace Park in Vista to Mission Valley River Park in San Diego, next to Snapdragon Stadium, drawing thousands for heavy athletics, massed bagpipe bands, Highland dance, sheepdog trials, clan tents, whisky tasting and a Scottish shortbread competition
What people love
Attendees describe a great time, calling the athletics astounding and the sheep herding a highlight, and several welcomed the new trolley-accessible San Diego location
Last time around (2026)
The 2026 games marked the event's move from Brengle Terrace Park in Vista to Mission Valley River Park in San Diego, next to Snapdragon Stadium, with attendees praising the astounding athletics, the sheep herding and the new trolley-accessible location, even as some wished it had been publicized more
The games
Heavy athletics
Scottish heavy athletics are a centerpiece, drawing competitors from across Southern California to traditional events sanctioned by the Scottish American Athletic Association
Pipe bands & Highland dance
Massed bagpipe bands, pipe and drum competitions and Highland dancing run throughout the weekend
Clans & genealogy
The games double as a Gathering of the Clans, with clan and society booths and a Kirkin' o' the Tartan among the traditions
Taking part
Other draws include sheepdog trials, a whisky tasting, live music, a kids' area, workshops and a Scottish shortbread competition
See it before you go
A look at the Highland Games in general, not this specific event.
Getting there
Nearest airport SAN.
How do I get to San Diego Scottish Highland Games?
By car
Most people drive to San Diego Scottish Highland Games. The nearest major airport is SAN, 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.
🅿 Parking
On site parking available. Cost $3.00 per day. On-site parking can be reserved in advance through offstreet.io; the games use the Yellow Lot
🚙 Car hire
Compare car hire at SAN
On site parking is available; if you are hiring a car it is worth checking the cost and how early it fills.
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Where
Map shows the centre of San Diego. The venue's exact point is not confirmed yet.
Venue
Mission Valley River Park
Camping & Accommodation
Where can I stay near San Diego Scottish Highland Games?
No on site camping. Here is where to stay nearby.
Airport hotels 3
1380 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
Link coming soon2353 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101
Link coming soon3889 Arista Street, San Diego, CA 92110
Link coming soonHotel links may earn Froligo a commission; they never change the price you pay.
Accessibility & comfort
What the organiser or venue publishes about getting around, and what they do not.
Confirm your specific needs with the organiser's access team before you travel.
Pricing
While you're in San Diego
AffiliateA Go City pass bundles San Diego's top attractions into one price, handy if you're making a trip of it rather than coming just for the festival.
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