Thousands gather for day two of world-class competition and celebration of everything Scottish as day two of Cowal Gathering 2025 delivered yet another unforgettable experience for spectators and competitors alike.
Billed as the world’s most spectacular Highland Gathering, Cowal once again lived up to its reputation as dancers, pipers, and visitors from across the globe descended on Dunoon for a full day of tradition, talent, and top-tier competition.
From early morning, the Stadium was alive with colour and energy as the Scottish National Highland Dancing Championships and junior solo piping competitions took centre stage. The Scottish Championships, one of three major dancing titles up for grabs this weekend, showcased dazzling skill and fierce determination.
The Argyllshire and World Championships will follow on Saturday.
Meanwhile, pipers battled it out in the Local Juvenile Solo Piping and the prestigious Burgh Cup Competition, adding their stirring sound to the morning’s atmosphere.
Among the winners in the Scottish National Championships, the main results were:
Alex Anderson from Prestonpans in the 14 years section.
Keira Hamilton from Aberdeen in the 15 years section.
Lucy Patton from Coupar in the 16 years section.
In the junior solo piping section, Arran Brown from Campbeltown picked up the Burgh Cup. Rio Arkell from Campbeltown was second, picking up The Inglis Trophy and Lily Robertson from Oban took third, picking up The Campbell Birnie Trophy. The Best Dressed Playing Piper: Juvenile was James Silcock from Falkirk.
Lunchtime brought crowds to the town centre, where the ever popular Classic Car Display on Alexandra Parade turned heads and sparked nostalgia for motor enthusiasts and passers-by alike.
The action isn’t over yet. As the sun sets, 1,000 lucky ticket holders will return to the showground for tonight’s sold-out Gig at the Gathering, featuring Gathering favourites Trail West. We guarantee a hoolie is on the horizon and the perfect way to roll into Gathering Saturday where we will see champions crowned.
For those without a ticket to tonight’s gig, Saturday’s Live Music Tent is shaping up to be a showstopper. The lineup includes The Inverhooley Ceilidh Band, The Ross Miller Band and headliners Rhuvaal — offering something for every musical taste.
Cowal Gathering Chairman David Mitchell MBE reflected on the day: ‘We’ve had a marvellous two days. The atmosphere has been electric, and the standard of competition has been exceptional. But we’re not done yet!
‘Tonight’s gig will be a brilliant evening, and tomorrow is packed with events for all ages. If you haven’t already got your ticket — don’t miss out!’
Ian Laister, Managing Director at Bakkafrost Scotland, headline sponsor of the event, said:
“The Cowal Gathering really is the best of ‘Scotland in one weekend’. We are committed to supporting Scotland’s rich cultural traditions and day two has provided world-class music and dancing – congratulations to all of today’s winners.”
A full list of the results of all today’s action will be posted on the Gathering website as soon as possible.
This year’s Cowal Gathering runs from Thursday 28 to Saturday 30 August.
Cowal Highland Gathering is supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland through their International Events Funding Programme.
For more information about the event or to buy tickets, please visit the Gathering’s website at www.cowalgathering.com or contact the event office by emailing info@cowalgathering.com or phoning 01369 703206.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
EventScotland, part of VisitScotland – the national tourism and events organisation for Scotland, works to make the destination the perfect stage for events by securing and supporting an exciting portfolio of sporting and cultural events.
It provides funding opportunities and access to resources and information to develop the industry. By raising Scotland’s profile as a leading events destination, we hope to attract more visitors to our shores.
It supports the delivery of Scotland’s National Events Strategy 2024-2035 which aims to build on the events industry’s many achievements to date.
The strategy refresh has been shaped by, Scottish Government, VisitScotland’s Industry and Events Directorate, Scotland’s Events Industry Advisory Group (EIAG), Local Authorities, COSLA, Trade Union representatives, and those who responded to the consultation process.
Find out more about Scotland’s National Events Strategy 2024-2035.
For further information about funding programmes and latest event news:
- visit visitscotland.org/events
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