This year, audiences are in for an extra special day of festivities as the Highland Gathering celebrates its 60th year at the KZN Upper South Coast town of Amanzimtoti on Saturday, 29 April. The town will be kilted out in tartan as bagpipers, dancers, and musicians descend on the beautiful coastal town for this family-friendly festival, hosted by the Amanzimtoti Lions Club.
“It was so wonderful welcoming visitors back to our coastal town last year for the Highland Gathering, and we’re looking forward to an even bigger turnout for the 60th celebration,” commented Amanzimtoti Lions President, Natalie Angelo. “For those who are new to the Highland Gathering, it’s really a full day of fun for the entire family, with incredible entertainment, displays, food and a dedicated Kids’ Zone. For those who frequent this festive event, expect some old favourites with a number of exciting new displays for the 2023 Highland Gathering!”
In addition to being a calendar highlight for festival-goers, the Highland Gathering is also an important annual fundraiser for non-profit organisation, Amanzimtoti Lions, which supports several local charities. The event is also supported by the local tourism body, Sapphire Coast Tourism.
“The Highland Gathering has become a highlight on the events calendar since its inception in 1963, breaking new ground each year. It even managed to set the record for the largest number of pipe bands performing in South Africa in one day!” said Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism. “By supporting this wonderful tradition, you’re not only supporting a valuable fundraiser, but our local tourism as well.”
With the Highland Gathering held over the long weekend, visitors have a great excuse to stay a little longer on the sunny Sapphire Coast and visit some of the local sites. This includes Amanzimtoti Main Beach for a day of bathing, snorkelling, and more seaside fun. Nearby Aliwal Shoal is a world-class dive site, and a great spot to experience the annual Sardine Run that takes place in the cooler months. There are also many exciting trails and picnic spots in nearby nature reserves, adventures, as well as great shopping and dining on offer.
The 60th Highland Gathering Programme
The event welcomes back popular ECR DJ Dave Guselli as the day’s MC, overseeing the many exciting displays and shows featured at the 2023 Highland Gathering.
Visitors can look forward to:
• Steel Drums
• Rhythmic Dance Studio
• Toti Hillbillies Line Dancing
• Double Beat Drum Studio
• Kids’ Zone
• Gary’s Donkeys and Ponies
• Fire Department Display
• Metro Display
• ET Security Display
• Arts & Crafts
• Exotic & vintage cars
• Irish and Scottish Dancing
• Pipers
• …and more!
Another event highlight is the Mr and Miss Highland Gathering beauty pageant which will be taking place from 1pm, with registration from 11:30am to 12:15pm. Hopeful competitors can enter across several age categories at a cost of R80 per entry. To enter, simply email events@modelm.co.za.
Book a ticket
Tickets to the Highland Gathering will be available at the venue. All funds raised will be donated to the local community through several charitable Amanzimtoti Lions initiatives. The ticket prices are:
• Adults – R50
• Pensioners/Scholars – R30
• Children under 6 years – Free
• Secure parking at the Amanzimtoti Rugby Club – R20 per vehicle
For more information, check out ‘Highland Gathering – Amazimtoti Lions Club’ on Facebook.
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