I have been to two highland games in Arizona, Phoenix and Verde Valley, as well as one highland games in Scotland, Forfar at Glamis Castle near Strathmore. The scottish games had additional physical competitions in bicycle and running around a fixed cross country track, in addition to the usual stone throwing and caber tossing. Dancing competitions were for all ages rather than just the kids. Vendors included scottish ccrraaaappp like the Gold Bros would stock in addition to a few quality and artican vendors. Food and drink were actually very sparse but present, and Clan tents and overt gatherings were not overtly visible. Bagpipe band and individual competitions were slightly more rigorous in appearence, with several more judges involved. One thing I only saw at the Arizona Valley Verde games was a wonderful demonstration of shepherding with specialized dogs by several different folks. The Phoenix and Forfar games both had a few kids activities like a moonwalk or small carousel. The two Arizona games actually had more defined and quality kilt and kilt-related equipment vendors---places where you could actually get fitted and measured and order a true wool tartan highland kilt chosen from a large variety of tartan samples from the various mills. Also a few more artists in jewelry and other finery. The beer appeared to flow a bit more freely at the Arizona games---the native scots seemed a bit more sedate overall. More kids at the Forfar games both as spectators and competitors. More actual "traditional" scottish food at the Arizona games.

The site for the Forfar games in Scotland was on the grounds of the Glamis Castle, a still inhabited country estate chateau-like residence rather than a fortification of any significance. But a beautiful estate with surrounding farmlands, etc... Both the Arizona games were kind of shoehorned onto public parks in the middle of town.

All three were fun to attend, very enjoyable and entertaining, with lots of friendly and wonderful people to meet.

Am planning on attending the Kentucky Highland games tomorrow about an hour east of Louisville, and will be able to use that for another comparison.