Phoenix Scottish Games postpone annual event until 2026
Organizers cite costs, low ticket sales in taking this year off
(Metro Creative Connection)
The Phoenix Scottish Games had intended to host its 60th anniversary celebration in February in Glendale, but after cancelling this year’s event the annual Phoenix tradition will instead try to return in 2026.
Rather than celebrate a major milestone in its history, the Phoenix Scottish Games will be taking 2025 off.
The Caledonian Society of Arizona board of directors recently made the decision to postpone this year’s 60th anniversary event, which had been scheduled for February. The event was to shift to the West Valley this year, at the West Valley Events Complex in Glendale.
“The board did not arrive at this decision lightly,” a Games statement posted to its website reads. “Current financial obligations, increasing overall costs to host the games, as well as significant increase in funds due prior to opening the games all contributed to the decision. Additionally, decreased ticket sales in all areas and lessening member resources were considered by the board.”
The popular Scottish Games feature a variety of competitive strength sports that celebrate Scottish culture and athleticism. Events include the caber toss, hammer throw, and tug of war, and the Games also feature traditional dancing and music.
Fans of the Games expressed disappointment on the Games’ social media but were also hopeful about the annual event returning. Organizers intend to host the Games and celebrate 60 years in 2026.
“The board of directors remains extremely optimistic for 2026,” the statement continued. “The CSA is soliciting ideas for and is committed to fundraising, sponsorship, and membership drives this coming year.”
A recurring theme for residents who attend the Games and who posted to the organization’s Facebook page involved the event’s location. In 2024 the Phoenix Scottish Games took place at Gilbert Regional Park, and a move west was planned for this year.
Scottish Games fans on Facebook had varied opinions about where in the Valley the Games should call home.
“I’m still reflecting on how nice the games were back in the day at Mesa Community College,” one commenter posted.
Another wrote, “I loved it at Steele Indian Park (in Phoenix) and it always did well there attendance-wise. Maybe if there was another park that didn't charge as much that was more centrally located.”
Still another expressed optimism at the event moving to the West Valley.
“Disappointed here since I thought the Glendale location would suit this event fine,” while yet another fan felt differently: “Please bring it back to Gilbert Regional Park!”
Organizers didn’t immediately respond to the Independent for comments beyond the official statement.
Meet Steve Steve Stockmar joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in 2017, and has been an Arizona journalist for almost 30 years. He serves as editor of Sun Life Magazine and contributes to West Valley communities where he focuses mostly on arts & culture, education, and profiles of neighbors making a difference.
Community: Every season Steve serves as a “buddy” with the Miracle League of Arizona in Scottsdale, has volunteered his time with Family Promise in Glendale, and previously served on the Ghostlight Theatre board in Sun City West.
Education: Graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff with a Journalism major and English minor.
Random Fact: Steve once won a 50-player live Texas Hold ’Em poker tournament.
Hobbies: Anguishing over his beloved Chicago Cubs and Bears; listening to Beatles and Grateful Dead music.
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