40th annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games to feature bagpipes, World Cup watch party

The Midwest’s largest Scottish event—the Scottish Festival & Highland Games—is set to return to Wheaton for its 40th annual run, bringing two days of music, athletics, and cultural events to the DuPage County Fairgrounds, according to a press release. The festival is scheduled for Friday, June 12, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, June 13, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The event will feature North America’s largest bagpiping and drumming championship, including a special appearance by the world-renowned Inveraray & District Pipe Band, the announcement confirms. Organizers said the weekend will also include a World Cup watch party, Family-Friendly-Friday, and a salute to veterans as part of the USA’s 250th birthday celebrations.

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Pipe bands, games and family events

Festivalgoers can expect caber tosses, Highland dancing, Celtic music, genealogy, whisky tastings, a classic British car show, and a Scottish marketplace. The lineup also includes the dogs of Scotland, an expanded kids’ area, Scottish food and drink, and vendors selling kilts, candy, jewelry, toys, tartan goods, and haggis.

About 15,000 people attend the event each year, the organization said in its announcement. On Saturday night, visitors will gather around a big screen to watch Scotland’s national soccer team play its first match of the summer’s World Cup.

Tickets and charity support

Chicago Scots President Gus Noble OBE said in the announcement, “Wheaton has become a wonderful home for our Festival. This event continues to unite generations of families and friends.” 

He added, per the press release, “Whether you’re Scottish by birth, by heritage, or simply by inclination, our invitation is always the same: come be Scottish for at least one day. And this year, we’re especially excited to bring fans together for the Scotland World Cup watch party, another great way to celebrate our shared spirit and pride. This is guaranteed to be a Scottish party for the ages!”

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All proceeds will benefit Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care in North Riverside, the Chicago Scots’ principal charity. Ticket prices are $25 for adults on Friday, $30 on Saturday, $45 for a two-day pass, and $225 for a VIP two-day pass. Children 12 and under are free both days. Parking will be free.

Food and marketplace vendor registration is open for 2026 applications. More information is available at chicagoscots.org or by calling (708) 447-5092.