From the inaugural Games in 1870 until 1879, the Games were held in Academy Park at Morrison's Academy, but in 1880 moved to the Market Park, where they have been held ever since.
In 1887 it was suggested that a permanent Grandstand be erected. However, at that time, the Games Committee did not own Market Park and no further steps were taken. In 1889 the Committee acquired a long Iease on part of the park and a year later the original stand was erected.
As time went on, such was the popularity of the games that the stand proved to be too small and some years later it was considerably enlarged and the extra space below was utilised for changing rooms and offices. In 1903 further additions were made.
Early in 1910, after negotiating for some time with the Earl of Ancaster; the Committee purchased Market Park from him. This put an end to the many petty disagreements that had arisen over the years between the official tenants of the Park - the Town Council - and the Games Committee.
In 1924 the stand was enlarged for the last time, increasing the length to 190 ft and the seating capacity to 950.
For the next 50 years the Stand was to be the predominant feature in the Games setting, with its tartan shields and stags' heads, flags and bunting heather and spruce. Although the size of the stand was not increased again alterations and refinements were made almost every year, particularly to the accommodation beneath the stand.
Then, shortly before midday on 11th October 1973, disaster struck! Smoke was observed seeping through the walls and shutters at the east end of the Stand. Firemen from Crieff and Comrie fought 50 ft flames to prevent the blaze spreading to a nearby builder's yard. Crieff's famous Iandmark and the main feature of the annual gathering was totally destroyed; as was game; equipment, ringside seating, cabers, hammers, shots and priceless display materials. Despite detailed investigation by the police and fire authorities no cause was ever discovered.