Royal Visit to Jedburgh: King Charles to Launch Annual Hand Ba’ Tradition
King to start annual hand ba game – King Charles III is set to take part in a historic event during his upcoming visit to Jedburgh, Scotland, where he will officially begin the annual hand ba’ game—a centuries-old street sport that has become a beloved local tradition. The royal visit, scheduled for next week, will include a range of cultural and community activities, with the hand ba’ game serving as a highlight. This marks a significant moment for Jedburgh, a town in the Scottish Borders, as it welcomes the monarch back to its streets for the first time in over three years.
A Legacy of Royal Engagement in the Borders
For the first time since 2006, when the Princess Royal unveiled the Jedburgh Bandstand, a royal figure will again grace the town’s cobbled lanes. The last royal visit to the Borders region occurred in 2023, when Charles and Camilla toured Galashiels and Selkirk. This year’s visit, however, holds particular importance as it coincides with the Jethart Callant Festival, an annual celebration of the town’s historic “common ridings” that date back to medieval times.
The Jethart Callant Festival, which runs from June 20 to July 12, is a vibrant showcase of the Borders’ heritage, featuring music, parades, and community gatherings. The festival’s namesake, the Callant, is a young man chosen each year to lead the ceremonial riding of the town boundaries. His role is symbolic, representing the unity and pride of Jedburgh’s residents. This year’s festival will also include a horse procession, with the Callant’s entourage dismounting to perform a traditional reel—a moment that has drawn anticipation from locals and visitors alike.
Hand Ba’: A Timeless Tradition in Jedburgh
One of the festival’s most anticipated events is the hand ba’ game, a unique sport that has been played in Jedburgh since 1704. This handball-like activity, played on a specially marked playing field, involves teams of two players using their hands to pass a ball over a low fence. The game is not just a form of recreation but a cherished tradition that reflects the town’s historical ties to the Borders’ rural past. Charles’s participation in this event will not only honor its legacy but also bring national attention to the local customs that have endured for over three centuries.
The King’s involvement in the hand ba’ game is expected to be a ceremonial start, with him joining the community in a symbolic gesture. This tradition has long been a source of pride for Jedburgh, with residents dressing in period costumes and gathering to watch the game. The event is a testament to the town’s deep-rooted cultural identity and its ability to preserve historical practices in the modern era. By participating in the hand ba’ game, Charles will align himself with the community’s efforts to celebrate and sustain these traditions.
Other Highlights of the Royal Visit
Following the hand ba’ game, King Charles will engage with the public and visit several local landmarks. His itinerary includes stops at Jedforest Bandstand and Park, where he will meet stallholders and community members. The visit also extends to the Jed Shed, a community hub founded in 2014 that serves as a space for skill-sharing, creativity, and social connection. During his time at the Jed Shed, Charles will observe a short carpentry demonstration, highlighting his interest in hands-on activities and local craftsmanship.
Additionally, the King will visit Briggsy’s, Stems of Jedburgh, and Jedburgh Chocolate House, showcasing his commitment to engaging with local businesses and supporting the town’s economic vitality. These visits provide an opportunity for residents to connect with the monarch, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared history. The Scottish Borders Council has encouraged people to attend the event, emphasizing its role in creating “another memorable royal visit” for the region.
“We are thrilled to welcome the King back to Jedburgh and to celebrate our traditions with such a distinguished guest,” said a spokesperson for the council. “His participation in the hand ba’ game is a fitting tribute to the town’s unique heritage and its enduring spirit of community.”
As the King’s visit approaches, excitement is building among residents and visitors. The combination of royal presence, historical rituals, and local engagement ensures that the event will be a memorable occasion. For many, the hand ba’ game is more than just a sport—it is a living link to the past, one that the King’s involvement will help keep alive. The festival, with its blend of cultural activities and community pride, promises to be a fitting celebration of Jedburgh’s rich history and vibrant present.
While the focus of the visit is the hand ba’ game, Charles’s interactions with local landmarks and businesses underscore his broader efforts to connect with Scotland’s communities. The festival’s organizers have worked tirelessly to ensure that the royal visit will be a seamless blend of tradition and modernity, offering visitors a glimpse into the unique character of Jedburgh. With the King’s presence, the event is expected to draw larger crowds and reinforce the town’s status as a cultural gem in the Borders region.
Charles’s decision to start the hand ba’ game is a nod to the town’s deep historical roots and its significance in the wider Borders landscape. The sport, which has survived the test of time, will be played under the watchful eye of the monarch, adding a layer of ceremonial importance to the event. This moment will be etched into the town’s memory, a reminder of the enduring connection between royalty and local traditions. As the festival unfolds, Jedburgh will once again shine as a place where history and community come together in celebration.
