Peine Highland Gathering

26 Years of Scottish Culture in Peine

What began in 1999 as a small event by the Scottish Culture Club Peine has developed into an international festival that attracts thousands of visitors to Peine's Stadtpark every year. The 26th edition in 2026 underscores the consistency and popularity of this unusual cultural endeavor. The Gathering has now become one of the most important meeting points for the Scottish community in Central Europe.

Pipe Band Championships

The sporting and acoustic highlight is the European Championship of Pipe Bands. The competitions begin on Saturday at 10:00 AM, with bands from Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Italy, Switzerland, and Scotland itself competing against each other. The characteristic sound of bagpipes and drums fills the entire Stadtpark, creating a unique atmosphere.

Highland Games and Solo Competitions

On Sunday, the classic Highland Games take center stage: Caber Tossing, Stone Putting, Hammer Throw, and Tug of War showcase the archaic strength of Scottish competitive traditions. Parallel to this, solo competitions in piping and drumming take place. Additionally, Highland dancing groups present their choreographies, captivating the audience.

Market Area with Seventy Stalls

Around seventy stalls form a Scottish market area. Here you can find tartans, kilts, and Scottish fashion, whisky tastings, jewelry with Celtic motifs, books on Scottish history, and specialties like Haggis, Shortbread, or Cullen Skink. Crafts from Scotland and the typical stalls of Scottish societies are also part of the offerings.

More Than a Festival, a Bridge to Scotland

The Peine Highland Gathering is more than an event. It is a bridge between Lower Saxony and Scotland, a place where Scottish expat families, lovers of Celtic music, history enthusiasts, and the simply curious meet. Day tickets are deliberately kept low at five euros to appeal to a broad audience.