The Whakatāne Scottish Pipe Band is proud to host the inaugural Whakatāne Pipe Bands Festival, to be held on Saturday 26 September 2026 at Whakatāne High School.

This exciting new event aims to bring the sights and sounds of pipe banding to the Eastern Bay community, while creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for bands of all sizes and experience levels.

The festival will feature a full day of activity, beginning with a street march around the Whakatāne High School grounds at 10:00am, followed by ground performances including set pieces and performance pieces, and concluding with a massed bands performance and prizegiving at 4:00pm.

Unlike traditional competitions, the Whakatāne Pipe Bands Festival has been designed to encourage participation and development. Bands will have the option to compete for placings or take part in a non-competitive “comments-only” section, receiving valuable feedback from experienced judges.

Contest Supervisor and Drum Major r  Graeme Erickson says the festival is about more than competition.
“We want to showcase pipe bands to our community while giving players of all levels the chance to perform, learn, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes pipe banding so special and great for people of all ages to come along enjoy the Market and some music from some amazing pipe bands.”

The event is open to all bands, including school, community, and non-affiliated groups. Flexible entry rules allow for smaller band sizes and shared players, making it easier for developing bands to take part.

Food trucks along with a Scottish themed market will add to the festival atmosphere. Spectators are encouraged to come along and enjoy a day of music, tradition, and community spirit.