National Tartan Day

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National Tartan Day
United States
National Tartan Day

When It Occurs

Every April 6th

Timeline

Days Passed (587)

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Tartan Day is an observance in North America that celebrates Scottish heritage on April 6, the day when the Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320. Initially established in Canada during the mid-1980s, it later gained popularity in other Scottish diaspora communities in the 1990s. In Australia, a similar event known as International Tartan Day is observed on July 1, commemorating the repeal of the 1747 Act of Proscription, which prohibited the wearing of tartan.

What is Tartan?

  1. Definition:

    • Tartan is a patterned cloth consisting of crisscrossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors. Historically, tartan patterns, also known as "plaids" in North America, have been associated with specific Scottish clans, families, and regions. The patterns are created by weaving colored threads in a specific sequence, resulting in a unique design that represents a particular group or family.
  2. Types of Tartan:

    • There are many different types of tartan, each associated with a different Scottish clan, family, or region. Some of the most well-known tartans include the Royal Stewart, Black Watch, and MacLeod tartans. Each tartan has its own unique pattern, known as a "sett," and colors, which are often rich in meaning and symbolism.
  3. Uses of Tartan:

    • Tartan is used to make kilts, scarves, sashes, and other traditional Scottish clothing and accessories. It is also used in home decor and other textiles, and it has become a popular design in fashion around the world.

History and Origins of National Tartan Day

  1. Establishment:

    • National Tartan Day was first celebrated in the United States on April 6, 1997. The date was chosen to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath on April 6, 1320. The Declaration of Arbroath is a famous document in Scottish history, in which Scottish barons declared their independence from England and asserted their right to live free from foreign domination. The declaration is often seen as an early expression of the principles that would later inspire democratic movements, including the American Revolution.
  2. Recognition by the U.S. Senate:

    • The idea for National Tartan Day in the U.S. was inspired by a 1986 resolution passed by the Canadian House of Commons, which declared April 6 to be Tartan Day in Canada. Following this, several U.S. organizations and Scottish heritage groups began advocating for a similar recognition in the United States. In 1998, the U.S. Senate officially recognized April 6 as National Tartan Day, thanks in part to efforts by the Scottish Coalition USA and other organizations.
  3. Purpose:

    • National Tartan Day celebrates the contributions of Scottish Americans to the development of the United States. It honors the nearly 30 million Americans of Scottish descent and their influence on American culture, politics, business, education, and more. The day also promotes the preservation of Scottish heritage and traditions.

How to Celebrate National Tartan Day

There are many ways to celebrate National Tartan Day, whether you have Scottish ancestry or simply want to enjoy and learn about Scottish culture:

  1. Wear Tartan:

    • One of the simplest and most popular ways to celebrate National Tartan Day is to wear tartan clothing or accessories. This could be a tartan kilt, scarf, sash, or even a tie or pocket square. Wearing tartan is a way to show pride in Scottish heritage and participate in the celebration.
  2. Attend a Tartan Day Parade:

    • Many cities across the United States host Tartan Day parades and events. The largest and most famous of these is the New York Tartan Day Parade, which features bagpipers, dancers, Scottish clans, and other groups celebrating their heritage. Check local listings to see if there is a Tartan Day event near you.
  3. Explore Scottish Culture:

    • Use National Tartan Day as an opportunity to learn more about Scottish culture, history, and traditions. You might read a book on Scottish history, watch a film set in Scotland, or listen to traditional Scottish music like bagpipes and folk songs.
  4. Cook a Scottish Meal:

    • Celebrate National Tartan Day by cooking traditional Scottish dishes. Some popular options include haggis, Scotch broth, cullen skink (a type of smoked haddock soup), shortbread, or cranachan (a dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and oats). Sharing Scottish food with friends and family can be a delicious way to honor the day.
  5. Participate in a Highland Games Event:

    • While many Highland Games events take place during the summer, some communities may hold special events in honor of National Tartan Day. Highland Games feature traditional Scottish sports like caber tossing, tug-of-war, and hammer throw, as well as music, dancing, and other cultural activities.
  6. Visit a Scottish Heritage Site:

    • If you live near a museum, library, or historic site that celebrates Scottish heritage, consider visiting to learn more about Scottish contributions to your local area or to the United States as a whole. Many cultural institutions host special events or exhibits for National Tartan Day.
  7. Support Scottish American Organizations:

    • Show your support for organizations that promote Scottish heritage and culture, such as the American-Scottish Foundation, Scottish Heritage USA, and Clan Societies. These groups often host events, provide educational resources, and work to preserve Scottish culture in America.
  8. Share on Social Media:

    • Use social media to celebrate National Tartan Day by sharing photos of your tartan attire, events, or Scottish-themed activities. Use hashtags like #NationalTartanDay or #TartanDay to connect with others who are celebrating.

Fun Facts About Tartan and Scottish Heritage

  • Scottish Ancestry in the U.S.: Nearly 30 million Americans claim Scottish or Scots-Irish ancestry, making up approximately 9% of the U.S. population. Scottish Americans have played a significant role in the founding and development of the United States.

  • Famous Scottish Americans: Many notable Americans have Scottish heritage, including Alexander Graham Bell (inventor of the telephone), Andrew Carnegie (industrialist and philanthropist), Neil Armstrong (astronaut), and Johnny Cash (musician).

  • Tartan Register: The Scottish Register of Tartans is an official registry that records all recognized tartan designs. New tartans can be created and registered for families, organizations, or even special events.

  • Tartan Day Worldwide: In addition to the United States and Canada, other countries such as Australia and New Zealand also celebrate Tartan Day, recognizing the contributions of Scottish immigrants and their descendants.

  • Clan Tartans: Traditionally, tartans were associated with specific Scottish clans or families. Wearing a particular tartan pattern could signify allegiance to a clan, and many Scottish families today continue to wear their ancestral tartans as a symbol of pride and heritage.

Conclusion

National Tartan Day is a vibrant celebration of Scottish heritage, culture, and the contributions of Scottish Americans to the United States. Whether you're of Scottish descent or simply appreciate the rich history and traditions of Scotland, this day offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy tartan attire, participate in cultural events, learn about Scotland's influence on America, and connect with others who share an interest in Scottish culture. From parades and music to cooking Scottish dishes and learning about history, there are countless ways to celebrate National Tartan Day on April 6th.