Much has changed since the 1870s when early Mormon settlers made the city of Highland their home. Many were drawn to the rolling hills and green fields that reminded them of the beauty of Scotland.

“Highland was settled by a man from Scotland, and the city was named after the Scottish Highlands,” said Kaity Lavaja, events coordinator for Highland City. “It is fitting that we include the games in our annual Highland Fling.”

Despite its growth, the city of Highland is committed to its early Scottish roots, and they celebrate this proud heritage every year with the Highland Fling. This week-long city celebration scheduled July 30-Aug. 6 offers something for every resident. There are picnics and games and movies in the park. But what makes this festival unique to the Wasatch Front is the Highland Games.

“We are excited to be able to host the Highland Games this year. The event is not only unique, but it goes right along with the city’s history,” Lavaja said.

As a salute to an enduring Scottish tradition, the Strongman competition will be held Friday, Aug. 5 at Heritage Park. The event begins at 6 p.m.

Then, don’t miss the Utah State Hammer Championship and Highland Games on Saturday, Aug. 6, starting at 9 a.m.

“We are looking forward to an exciting event and a great turnout as we cheer on some of our strongest athletes,” Lavaja said.

To have a better appreciation for the men and women who defy gravity with their extreme strength, here are some terms for some of the more well-known events that happen in the Strongman Scottish Games.

Scottish kilt

Also known as required attire. All competitors wear kilts during the event. What is worn beyond the required clothing is up for debate. Although the phrase that nothing comes between a strongman and the spirit of Scottish tradition is open for discussion.

The pole push

With both athletes grabbing hold of looped straps connected to a heavy log, both try to push the other out of the circle.

Sword hold

In this event, the athlete extends both arms to his sides with a 12-pound sword in each hand. The challenge is to hold that position the longest — much like sharing your tub of popcorn with the friend sitting three seats down from you who is taking forever to grab a suitable handful of popcorn.

Caber toss

This is probably the most mimicked event in the games. This is the challenge where athletes throw a telephone pole-sized log a certain distance. You’ve likely seen scouts try this with tubes from the fundraiser flags. Quite a show.

Altas stones

A.k.a.: the groin-puller. The challenge involves large smooth stone spheres ranging in weight from 160 pounds to 300 pounds. Athletes must lift these stones one at a time and place them atop a large barrel.

Tug of war

Most people know this event, but it’s always nice to be reminded that a group of pint-sized residents are stronger than they look.

The people of Highland and the Highland Fling city celebration is a living example of the power of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of heritage. The tradition that was started years ago remains just as strong and true today. Please join the city for Highland Fling 2016. They’ve got a kilt with your name on it.

For more information on the Highland Fling 2016, visit www.highlandcity.org.