Highland games across Scotland bring in around £25 million to the national economy each year.
Despite recent concerns about the future of these traditional gatherings, the 80 different games events which run from May to September are providing a boost for the economy.
Dr Marjory Brewster, who was awarded a PhD for studying the Scottish sports, said the events are a financial success because they “drive repeat business to distinct locations”.
She said: “Our research indicates that 25% of visitors to highland games are international.
“This is really important for Scotland’s tourism and events industry, and provides a major boost to the economies of key communities.
“Many of the events take place in the highlands and islands, and due to their increased popularity, these events help drive visitor numbers to key locations thereby spreading the tourism spend across the country.”
Activities featured in the games are being piloted in some schools to encourage a younger generation to continue this trend.
Aberdeen Council co-leader Douglas Lumsden said: “Aberdeen has a proud and long heritage of its Highland Games which are now in their 58th year, attracting up to 15,000 people and giving a fantastic boost to the city’s economy as well as showing tourists our beautiful city.
“In addition to all the traditional events at our games, we have a range of family-friendly entertainment, free children’s activities and TV favourite Mr Bloom.
“We have invested significantly as a council in attracting new events to the city but the traditional favourites remain just as important and the 2018 Highland Games promises to be another great success.”
Aboyne Highland Games, which will return for its 151st year this August, annually injects around £450,000 into the local economy.
Alistair Grant, chairman of Aboyne Highland Games, said: “Since its founding, Aboyne Highland Games has played an important role in the village, attracting thousands of visitors each year who then spend money in local businesses.
“It can be hard to exactly quantify the benefit that the annual highland games brings to the village, but the buzz it creates and increased footfall and trade are very evident.”