Sherwood Park, AB – [May 27, 2025] – The Sherwood Park Highland Gathering returns this summer for its fifth anniversary celebration on Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20, 2025. Held at Broadmoor Lake Park, this beloved annual Celtic festival continues to grow as a signature event in Strathcona County, now recognized by Travel Alberta as one of the province’s premier summer attractions.

More than 12,000 visitors are expected to pass through the gates over the course of the weekend, joining over 400 competitors across provincially sanctioned Highland dance, pipes and drums, and heavy games competitions. Guests can look forward to traditional Scottish music, massed bands, cultural showcases, artisan vendors, and family-focused entertainment that immerses attendees in the rich heritage of the Highlands.

The 2025 festival theme, “The Year of the Highland Coo,” adds a lighthearted and memorable twist to this year’s celebration. Alongside returning favourites like duck and sheep herding dog demonstrations, guests can expect some surprise visitors with a special salute to Scotland’s beloved Highland Cow. More details about this feature will be unveiled in June, but anticipation is already building around the exhibit, made possible by Noppe Forest Farm.

One of this year’s most anticipated contests is the Expedition Rentals’ Tug O’ War, bringing a high-energy dose of friendly competition to the field. As the event’s Lionheart Sponsor, Expedition Rentals is helping deliver a fan-favourite moment that brings teams and spectators together in true Highland spirit.

This year’s Gathering will also introduce the first-ever official tartan of Strathcona County. Years in the making, the debut of this local tartan adds a meaningful layer of cultural pride and community identity to the weekend’s festivities.

The 2025 Gathering will shine a spotlight on the growing Honoured Clan program. Visitors will have the chance to explore their own family histories and Scottish roots through participating clan societies, including Clan Cunningham International, Clan MacDougall, Clan Buchanan Society International, Scots of Canada, and Clan Hunter Canada. These organizations will be on hand to share knowledge, answer questions, and celebrate the legacy of the clan system.

On Sunday, a new feature will make its debut: a classic British car display presented by local enthusiasts. This will be the first time vintage vehicles are featured at the Gathering, with a curated collection of iconic British makes and models expected. Organizer Gord Craig and his team are coordinating what promises to be a standout addition to the weekend.

The Saturday night Family Ceilidh returns with live music by The Tilted Kilts and promises to be one of the highlights of the weekend. Guests are encouraged to secure tickets early for this popular evening event, as space is limited.

The Sherwood Park Highland Gathering is presented by the Strathcona Highland Society, a non-profit, volunteer-run organization dedicated to fostering cultural connection through celebration.

“This Gathering has become a cultural landmark for Sherwood Park,” said Roxanne Carr, President of the Strathcona Highland Society. “In five short years, it has grown thanks to the extraordinary dedication of our volunteers and the support of our community. The Highland Gathering is built by the people who

show up year after year to lend their hands, their hearts, and their heritage to something larger than any one of us; it is truly a community legacy.”

The Highland Gathering also extends its deepest thanks to supporters, community members, and local businesses who attended the recent fundraising event at Sherlock Holmes Pub. As a proud Cráic Sponsor, Sherlock Holmes hosted a well-attended evening that helped raise vital funds for the festival’s continued success. The silent auction, made possible by generous donations from local businesses, offered guests a fun and meaningful way to contribute.

Businesses interested in supporting the 2025 event are encouraged to get in touch at partnerships@sphg.ca.

Tickets are on sale now via Eventbrite. Guests are encouraged to buy ahead of time to enjoy early bird pricing and skip the line at the gates!