Montreal's Highland Games cancelled this year — but hope to return in 2026
No specific reason for cancellation given in message on event's website
The Montreal Highland Games, an annual tradition that celebrates Scottish sport, music and culture, will not take place this year.
Organizers announced this year's cancellation in a brief message on the event's website. The message does not give a specific reason why the event was cancelled.
"We are taking this time to review our operations thoughtfully, with the goal of returning in 2026 with a renewed celebration — one that truly honours Scottish culture and creates a vibrant, welcoming experience for all," reads the message signed by Bruno Plourde, the president of the Montreal Highland Games.
"We look forward to welcoming you back in 2026 for an even more exciting and memorable event."
Montreal's first Highland Games were held in 1976, the same year as the Summer Olympic Games, though the event is considered a successor to the Caledonian Games, which began in 1855. The event features athletes competing in the caber toss, sheaf toss, tug-of-war and hammer throw.
Chris Johnstone, speaking to CBC News as one of the organizers of the athletic tournament in 2018, jokingly referred to the competition as "a lot of big guys throwing heavy things."
In 2019, women took part in the competition for the first time.
The games have been cancelled in the past, including 2013 and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year's edition was originally scheduled for Sunday Aug. 3.
