Highland Games bring Scottish tradition and strength competition to Tallahassee

Local athletes compete in ancient Scottish tests of strength while families reconnect with their roots

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The 2026 Tallahassee Highland Games brought ancient Scottish strength competitions like the caber toss and stone throw to the city, allowing local athletes to showcase their skills while families celebrated their Scottish heritage. The games trace their roots back centuries when Scottish clans would gather to compete, celebrate, and come together.

Why it matters

The Highland Games are a way to preserve Scottish cultural traditions and bring the community together. The festival supports the local economy by attracting visitors and raising funds for nonprofits, while also allowing residents to connect with their ancestral roots.

The details

Local athlete Derek Barnhardt competed in the open stone throw and caber toss, showcasing the intense technique and strength required. The Highland Games are more than just a strength competition - they're a chance for the community to come together, with the festival featuring food, music, and other cultural activities. The games raise funds for nonprofits through beer sales, which are used to help local businesses travel to other festivals.

  • The 2026 Tallahassee Highland Games took place over the past weekend.

The players

Derek Barnhardt

A local athlete who competed in the Highland Games strength competitions.

Ryan May

The president of the Tallahassee Highland Games.

Madison Kvamme

A local Scottish resident who attended the Highland Games.

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What they’re saying

“The amount of technique and strength you really have to have it's just raw. You have to know what you're doing to avoid hurting yourself and to keep up with the other guys, because there are some monsters out there.”

— Derek Barnhardt, Local athlete (WTXL)

“Basically a giant family barbeque, it became a huge tradition, kind of like a strength rite to passage.”

— Ryan May, Tallahassee Highlands Games President (WTXL)

“I think it is good to appreciate everyone's culture and also get to know the types of things your people use to eat and dance and do together, it really helps you get in touch with your ancestors.”

— Madison Kvamme, Local Scottish resident (WTXL)

What’s next

The Tallahassee Highland Games are expected to return next year, continuing the tradition of celebrating Scottish culture and strength competitions.

The takeaway

The Highland Games provide a unique opportunity for the Tallahassee community to connect with their Scottish heritage, while also supporting local businesses and nonprofits. The festival's blend of cultural tradition and modern competition makes it a must-attend event for residents and visitors alike.