DUNEDIN HIGHLAND GAMES
Saturday, April 11, 2026
The Pipes are Calling! Step into a world where the flags fly high and the spirit of Scotland runs deep. Join us for a thunderous celebration of heritage featuring world-class piping, elite heavy athletics, and the grace of Highland dance. Grab a pint, find your friends, and join the gathering—because this weekend, everyone is a Celt!
Competition
Pipe Band March & Ceilidh
Workshops
Be Part of the Action
Every year the Dunedin Highland Games & Festival is made possible by a team of incredible volunteers. We need you – sign up today to not only be here, but be part of the action!
Games Kick-off Party in Pioneer Park Friday, April 10th
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Know Before You Go
Parking
All general parking is remote with with complimentary shuttle service!
Service runs from 8 AM – 7 PM with pickups at Dunedin High School, North Dunedin Baptist Church, and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.
Note: Handicap parking is located at the Dunedin Community Center (available first-come, first-served).
Festival Map, Schedule of Events, and Beer List
The Fine Print
We love our furry friends, but please leave them at home—only service animals are permitted at the Games. To keep our paths clear for the pipes and drums, coolers and tents are not allowed. However, please feel free to bring your own folding chairs!
Lodging & Accommodations
We’ve partnered with local hotels to offer discounted room blocks for our guests. To secure the special festival rate, please be sure to book before the individual hotel deadlines.
2026 Chieftain of the Day – Mark Brandmaier!
It is our honor to recognize Mark as Chief of the Day for the Dunedin Highland Games.
For more than 15 years, Mark has been a devoted champion of the Scottish arts in Dunedin, and this tradition has become a deeply meaningful part of the Brandmaier/Mooney family. His journey
began when his late daughter, Kailey Brandmaier, first took up the bagpipes at the age of 12 while attending Dunedin Highland Middle School. From that moment forward, Mark and his wife Ann embraced the Scottish arts community with wholehearted dedication and service.
Over the years, Mark has served in countless roles, from chaperoning band trips and supporting young musicians to serving as pipe band liaison and proudly performing as bass drummer with the Grade 5 City of Dunedin Pipe Band. His steadfast commitment, generous spirit, and love for the traditions of our heritage have made a lasting impact on this community.
Today, Mark continues to be an active and passionate member of the Dunedin Scottish Arts Foundation, helping lead this event and many others throughout the year. For him, this community is more than an organization—it is a family, a place of joy, purpose, and remembrance, where he continues to honor Kailey’s spirit while helping keep the Scottish arts alive and thriving in Dunedin.
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