🦵 Bonnie Knees Contest

A Highland Tradition with a Wink and a Smile!


Step right up, lads — it’s time to show off those bonnie knees! 🍀   The Bonnie Knees Contest is one of the most entertaining (and hilarious) traditions of the Highland Games — a celebration of charm, confidence, and Celtic spirit.


👑 What Is the Bonnie Knees Contest?

Rooted in old Scottish festival fun, this lighthearted competition tests not just the bonnieness (beauty) of one’s knees, but also the wit, humor, and stage presence of each brave participant. 



Judges — often blindfolded! — will inspect the knees of our contestants and declare whose are truly the bonniest in the realm!


🏆 How to Enter

  • When: See the Festival Schedule or stop by the Info Booth for contest time.
  • Where: Arts Stage.
  • Entry Fee: Free with festival admission.
  • Registration: Sign up at the Info Booth at least 30 minutes before the contest begins.
  • Contestants must be 18+ to enter.


💂‍♂️ What the Judges Look For

  • Shape, smoothness, and symmetry (of the knees, of course!)
  • Stage presence and personality
  • Celtic charm and crowd appeal
  • Authenticity of tartan or attire (bonus points for kilts!)


🥇 Awards & Glory

  • 1st Place: Bonnie Knees Champion Trophy
  • 2nd & 3rd Place: Festival prizes and eternal bragging rights
  • Winners announced immediately following the contest!


📸 Festival Fun

Contestants and audience members are encouraged to cheer, laugh, and take photos — this contest is all about community and Celtic humor.   Winners may be featured on the Yosemite Celtic Festival website and social media pages!


⚠️ Official Guidelines

  • Family-friendly event — please keep all presentations tasteful.
  • Kilts encouraged, trousers permitted, humor required.
  • Judges’ decisions are final (even if slightly biased toward bravery and brawn!).


🎟️ Join the Fun!

Whether you’re baring your knees or cheering from the crowd, the Bonnie Knees Contest is one of the festival’s most spirited and laughter-filled traditions.


👉 Come see who takes home the crown — and the title of “Bonniest Knees in the Highlands of Yosemite!”