April 15th kicks off Tartan Week New York’s 25th-anniversary parade, but you can celebrate all week! There will be musical performances, a parade, special guests, and so much more! Whether you play the bagpipes and wear a kilt or not, there is so much culture and fun to explore during Tartan Week. Learn more about National Tartan Day and all the festivities happening in NYC to celebrate Tartan Week!
About National Tartan Day
Back in 1999, a small group of Scottish Americans with a Grand Marshal marched in what would be the first Tartan Day Parade. Since then, the group, the parade, and the fan following have grown substantially. Thousands of people come every year to celebrate National Tartan Day, which is officially April 6th, and enjoy the parade and festivities. The parade itself is free, and NYC Tartan Week draws more than 3,000 bagpipers, clan organizations, Highland dancers, Scottish canines, and more!
Tartan Week NY Hosts a Scottish Gaelic Song Contest
On April 12th and 13th, head over to The Tailor Public House for the first-ever Scottish Gaelic song contest - The NYC Tartan Week Mòd! It’s been a Scottish tradition for more than 100 years, and it’s now coming to Tartan Week! There will be a series of workshops in the Gaelic language, Gaelic songs, and Scottish step and cèilidh dancing!
A New York Tradition
What began as an idea among Scottish enthusiasts has now become a New York City tradition. In 2002, the National Tartan Day New York Committee non-profit was established to spread awareness and celebrate the contributions of Scottish-American culture. This year's Grand Marshal for the parade is Gail Porter – Actor, TV Personality, and Model.
This Year’s Post Parade Celebration
Here are all the details about this year’s 25th-anniversary celebration and post-parade party.
- When: Saturday, April 15th
- Time: 4:30 PM
- Where: Sony Hall, 235 W 46th Street, NYC
- Website: https://www.nyctartanweek.org/
- Download the App Here
This year's musical performances will include The Highland Divas, Gleadhraich, and Whisky Kiss. There will also be special guests, traditional toasts, and an open bar sponsored by Belhaven and Beam Suntory.
If you’re looking for cultural things to do in NYC in April, make sure you experience Tartan Week NY and Parade! And all other event planning tasks you have coming up, leave them to the pros at EMRG Media! Connect with our event planning team to help you curate whatever you're celebrating!
