The first record of an organised Highland games in the town is in 1871, the same year as the Argyllshire Gathering in Oban started.

[2] The event that would evolve into the Cowal Gathering was first held on 11 August 1894, and organised by local man Robert Cameron.

[3] The global COVID-19 pandemic saw the cancelling of the highland gathering for 2020 and 2021, events normally attracting in excess of 1500 competitors annually.

[10] Following discussions between the Gathering Committee and the RSPBA, it was decided that after 2013 Cowal would lose its status as a major competition due to difficulties accommodating the number of bands.

The heats are about the same standard and the top ten from each category get to dance on the Saturday for a chance at winning the World Championship title.

[15][16] There is a 5-kilometre fun run and a hill race from the stadium to the top of Tom Odhar and back again,[17] and since 2007 there has been a Scottish backhold wrestling competition.