The town of Antigonish recorded its first Highland Games in 1836 and has continued the tradition ever since. Traditional events continue to form the core of the Games, and these include tug-of-war, Scottish heavyweight events, a five-mile road race, massed pipe bands, Highland dancing competitions, solo piping and drumming competitions and march past of the clans.Over the years many other social events have been added. A kilted golf tournament has proved popular, and there are various clan suppers, a Concert Under the Stars, Beer Tent Ceilidh and a Grand Street Parade from Saint Francis Xavier University down Main Street to the venue site at Columbus Field.