Tartan Day
July 1, Monday
History of the holiday
The date of April 6 was chosen in honor of the Declaration of Arbroath (1320), a document that is considered the prototype of the US Declaration of Independence. In this document, the Scottish nobility appealed to the Pope with a request to recognize Scotland's independence from England.
Tartan Day originated in 1986 in Canada, where the Nova Scotia provincial parliament officially recognized this day in honor of Scottish settlers. In 1998, the holiday was enshrined in the United States by a Senate resolution, after which it gained wide popularity among the Scottish diaspora around the world.
What is tartan
Tartan is a tartan fabric traditionally associated with the clans of Scotland. Each clan has its own unique pattern, which was used to indicate belonging to a certain family. In the past, tartan was also used for clothing, flags and other symbols.
How Tartan Day is Celebrated
Wearing Tartan. On this day, people wear clothes or accessories made of tartan - kilts, scarves, ties, skirts - to emphasize their Scottish origins or simply express respect for the culture.
Parades and processions. In many cities, especially in the USA and Canada, parades are held, where musicians with bagpipes participate, representatives of Scottish clans march and dance groups.
Cultural events. Festivals are organized, where dance performances, competitions in traditional Scottish games, exhibitions and tastings of national cuisine take place.
Bagpipes and music. Concerts of bagpipers and ensembles of traditional Scottish music are an integral part of the celebration.
Honoring Scottish heritage. Lectures and exhibitions are held on the history of Scotland and its contribution to world culture.