Soaking up the sounds of the bagpipes, cheering on the Kilted Warriors, or indulging in a Scotch pie, Brigadoon is a day like no other. Here’s what makes it so special.
Image Credit: Derek Janderko
1. The Magic of Brigadoon Itself
Legend has it that Brigadoon is a mystical Scottish village that appears for just one day every hundred years. Luckily for us, Bundanoon’s version pops up every April. As the sun rises, the sound of bagpipes drifts across the Highlands, and just like that, Bundanoon is transformed.
In 2026, the magic gets EVEN MORE special with Frank MacGregor, High Commissioner for Clan Gregor Australia and Honorary Consul for the United Kingdom in Tasmania, as the Chieftain of the Day, bringing a touch of real Scottish heritage to the celebration. Och Aye!
2. The Festival That Gives Back
Brigadoon is a lot more than just a fun day out. It’s a major fundraiser for local charities, youth groups, and community organisations.
Since it began, over $1.4 million has been given back to the region, supporting everyone from the Rural Fire Service to local pipe bands. In 2023 alone, Brigadoon donated $48,208. Not bad for a small village [with a big heart!].
3. The Spectacular Street Parade
If you love a bit of pomp and pageantry, the Street Parade is unmissable. At 9am sharp, 25+ pipe bands, marching clans, and decorated floats take over the streets of Bundanoon, creating a spectacle of swirling tartans and thunderous drumbeats. In 2026, Chieftain Frank MacGregor will lead the procession, adding an extra touch of history and grandeur to the parade.
4. Welly Wanging! The Newest, Silliest Sport
New for 2025, Welly Wanging replaces the traditional Egg Toss [thanks, egg shortage]. The goal? Fling a gumboot as far as possible! Extra points if it lands upright! It’s quirky, hilarious, and bound to be a crowd favourite.
Brigadoon’s Highland Games bring serious strength and skill to the mix. Watch [or join in!] as competitors take on classic Scottish challenges like caber tossing, stone lifting, and hammer throwing.
5. Fancy Footwork
What’s a Scottish celebration without some high-energy dancing? The Joy Reiher School of Scottish Dancing brings history to life with the Sword Dance [yes, real swords!], the rebellious Seann Triubhais [shaking off those dreaded trousers after kilts were banned], and the lively Highland Fling, inspired by a prancing stag. It’s fast, fun, and full of tartan twirls!
6. The Massed Pipes & Drums [A Goosebump Moment]
Hundreds of pipers and drummers performing in perfect unison, kilts swaying, music soaring. This spectacular massed band performance happens twice – once at the Opening Ceremony [10am] and again at the Closing Ceremony, choreographed to feel like a mini tattoo [a Scottish military-style performance].
7. The Food is Next-Level Delicious
Brigadoon’s Scottish food stalls sell out fast, and for good reason. Expect classics like haggis, tatties & neeps, Scotch pies, Lorne sausage [the square one], and black pudding. Authentic Scottish fare awaits, appealing to both longtime fans and those looking to try something new.
8. There’s Plenty of Fun for Families
Brigadoon isn’t just for the grown-ups. It’s a family-friendly event with loads of activities for kids. From water toss competitions [where kids can drench Mum or Dad] to the Bonnie Bairns dress-up contest, there’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained.
Image Credit: Roy Truscott
9. Discover Your Clan Roots
Want to trace your Scottish heritage? The Clans and Societies tents are where you can chat with experts, learn about your family’s tartan, and maybe even find long-lost relatives!
10. Some Secrets Stay at Brigadoon…
With thousands of visitors and countless stories, Brigadoon has its fair share of behind-the-scenes fun. But as the locals say, what happens at Brigadoon stays at Brigadoon!
Planning to visit? Brigadoon 2025 kicks off on April 5, so grab your kilt, practice your Welly Wanging technique, and get ready for an unforgettable day in Bundanoon.
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