The 40th Annual Tucson Celtic Festival & Scottish Highland Games returns to Rillito Park Race Track from Friday, October 23 through Sunday, October 25, 2026. The weekend combines Highland athletics, live Celtic music, dance, clans, food and family activities in the Arizona desert.
Festival Hours
| Day | Date | Published hours | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | October 23 | 5:00 pm-10:00 pm | Opening-night atmosphere and music |
| Saturday | October 24 | 8:00 am-10:00 pm | Masters and men's lightweight athletics, music and a full festival day |
| Sunday | October 25 | 8:00 am-5:00 pm | Open divisions, women's lightweight athletics and a shorter family day |
The organizer's festival information page lists 8:00 am opening times for Saturday and Sunday. Because individual stage and competition times can change, check the official Tucson Celtic Festival website again before traveling.
Tickets and Admission
Tickets are sold through the organizer's official ticketing partner. Children age 12 and younger are admitted free, but the ticket page states that they still need a ticket. Advance prices and gate prices can differ, so buying before arrival may save time and money.
| Adult ticket | Advance price | Gate price |
|---|---|---|
| Full weekend, Friday-Sunday | $58.98 | $62.13 |
| Two-day, Saturday-Sunday | $43.24 | $46.39 |
| Friday only | $22.24 | $25.39 |
| Saturday only | $27.49 | $30.64 |
| Sunday only | $22.24 | $25.39 |
Prices shown were verified on September 14, 2026 and may include ticketing fees. Review the current options through the official festival ticket page before purchase.
What to Watch at the Highland Games
The athletic competition takes place on Saturday and Sunday as part of the International Highland Games Federation All American Highland Games Series. Tucson is also scheduled to host the IHGF National Hammer Throwing Championships.
The published nine-event program includes Open Stone, Braemar Stone, heavy and light hammer, heavy and light weight for distance, caber toss, weight over bar and sheaf toss. Saturday is scheduled around masters groups and men's lightweight competition. Sunday is scheduled for men's and women's open groups plus women's lightweight competition.
Clan MacBean, the 2026 Honored Clan
Clan MacBean is the festival's honored clan for 2026. Chief Richard McBain of McBain, the 23rd hereditary chief, is highlighted by the organizer. Clan tents are useful places to ask about surnames, sept traditions, genealogy groups and upcoming gatherings.
Scottish Clan Finder
Find Your Scottish Clan Before the Games
Search your Scottish clan or family name to find matching Celtic Studio clan crest products before visiting the clan tents in Tucson.
Tip: try Mac and Mc spelling variations. Some surnames may connect with more than one Scottish tradition.
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Music, Dance and Family Activities
The festival is broader than the athletic field. Plan time for live Celtic music, Highland dance, merchants, food vendors and clan representatives. Families with younger visitors may find Sunday easier because the published day is shorter, while Friday evening is useful for visitors who want music and atmosphere without committing to a full daytime schedule.
What to Wear
Late October in Tucson can still feel warm in direct sun, but evenings cool quickly. Choose breathable layers, comfortable closed-toe shoes and sun protection. A kilt or tartan accessory is welcome but not required. If you want a traditional look without overcomplicating the day, see our guide to traditional Highland Games attire.
Parking, Accessibility and Visitor Rules
Rillito Park Race Track is an outdoor venue, so expect walking across festival grounds and potentially uneven surfaces. Follow posted parking directions on arrival and leave extra time before a competition you especially want to watch.
- Pets are not admitted except qualified service animals.
- Outside alcohol, weapons and drones are prohibited.
- Bring water, sun protection and a light evening layer.
- Check the organizer's current visitor information before departure because operational details can change.
Simple One-Day Plans
| If you choose... | Suggested plan |
|---|---|
| Saturday | Arrive near opening, watch masters or lightweight athletics, visit clan tents before lunch, then alternate between music and dance. |
| Sunday | Start with open-division athletics, visit merchants and Clan MacBean, then finish with music before the 5:00 pm close. |
| Friday evening | Use the shorter visit for food, music and an initial walk through the grounds, then return Saturday or Sunday for the Games. |
Plan Before You Go
Confirm final hours, schedules and ticket availability on the official festival website. For more event guides, browse our Scottish Highland Games articles.
Last verified: September 14, 2026.