On September 6, 2024, King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended the annual Braemar Gathering Highland games in the Cairngorms National Park. This event, steeped in tradition, took place just one day before the first anniversary of the King's accession to the throne.
The royal couple arrived at the gathering, which is held annually on the first Saturday of September. King Charles was attired in a tartan jacket complemented by a navy, red, and green kilt, while Queen Camilla donned a navy dress adorned with a feather pattern and a hat featuring two feathers. The kilt, a symbol of Scottish heritage, has evolved significantly since its development in the 18th century.
The Braemar Gathering, one of Scotland's most renowned Highland games events, has a long-standing connection with the British monarchy. This tradition dates back to Queen Victoria's reign, highlighting the enduring relationship between the royal family and Scottish culture. The games themselves have an even longer history, with roots tracing back to the 11th century in Scotland.
Spectators at the event witnessed various traditional Highland games activities, including the tug-of-war, a sport with ancient origins in Egypt, Greece, and China. Interestingly, tug-of-war was once an Olympic sport, featured in the games from 1900 to 1920. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the music of bagpipers and drummers, instruments that have been integral to Scottish culture since at least the 15th century.
The Cairngorms National Park, where the gathering took place, is the largest national park in the UK, established in 2003. It's home to five of Scotland's six highest mountains, providing a majestic backdrop for the festivities. The park's creation has significantly contributed to the preservation of Scotland's natural heritage.
The royal couple's summer residence, Balmoral Castle, is located a short distance from the event site. This historic estate has been a cherished retreat for the British royal family since 1852 when Prince Albert purchased it. The proximity of Balmoral to the Braemar Gathering underscores the deep connection between the monarchy and this traditional Scottish event.
As King Charles and Queen Camilla enjoyed the gathering, their presence continued a legacy of royal participation that has spanned generations. Their attendance, on the eve of the King's accession anniversary, served as a poignant reminder of the monarchy's role in preserving and celebrating Scottish traditions.