Usually on the 6th April we would be parading down 6th Avenue to commemorate National Tartan Day, however this year due to world events celebrations have gone virtual. So today we bring you our favourite ways to celebrate from home.
Why We Celebrate National Tartan Day
We celebrate National Tartan Day on the 6th of April every year. This date is very special as it is the anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath. The Declaration of Arbroath was a letter written in 1320 (700 years ago) by the noble men and women of the kingdom of Scotland, asking the Pope to recognise Scotland's independence and acknowledge Robert the Bruce as the country's lawful king.
The Declaration of Arbroath provided the foundation for the Declaration of Independence which was later signed in America by the 13 United States on July 4th 1776 declaring the US free of British Rule. We have an entire blog dedicated to this famous document written by Emily Yule, a Stirling University history student on placement with us if you want to learn more.
In 1998 the U.S. Senate chose April 6th as National Tartan Day to recognize the contributions made by Scottish-Americans to the United States. The very first parade was held in 1999 and only 100 people marched! Since then it has grown and grown, when ScotlandShop marched for the very first time in 2019, Grand Marshal Billy Connolly led a procession of over 3,000 people.
It is in truth not for glory, nor riches, nor honours, that we are fighting, but for freedom - for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself.
How To Celebrate At Home:
What to Wear:
Something tartan of course!
We know it might be a bit tricky to pop to the shops at the moment but dig out your tartan Scarves, Tams and Kilts (or Tartan Trainers if you're lucky enough to have a pair) and get in the celebrating mood. (We won't judge if you prefer to wear your tartan PJ's) Or, if you want to treat yourself to something new online, we have a whole selection of New York Tartan Treats.
If you’re lacking fashion inspiration or wondering which tartan accessories would be best to wear for such an occasion, then you’re in luck as we have created the New York City Tartan Week Box which includes everything you could possibly need to celebrate in style.
A ScotlandShop Tartan Rosette is perfect for wearing on zoom calls throughout the day, to subtly show your tartan love. And a matching Wool Tartan Tam and Brushed Wool Tartan Scarf set for you to bring out for evening activities!
The Virtual Parade:
This year on April 6th 2020 we will be having the first ever Global Virtual Tartan Day! Make sure and post all of your pictures and videos, and tag us on social media with #ScotlandShop and #NYCTW. You can even get your pets involved with a a Doggie Bandanna or if you're crafty, why not make your own?
How to create your own Tartan Day Photobooth:
You can have fun at home by making your very own Tartan Day Photo booth. Why not try making your own backdrop using a Tartan Rug, creating your own Scottish drawing or even using some Tartan Ribbon and some garden cane to create a ribbon curtain?
How To Make A Ribbon Backdrop:
1. Cut ribbon in to four foot strips and fold 2 inches of ribbon over the dowel
2. Pinch the ribbon and secure with a twist tie
3. Flatten the twist tie so ribbon is as flat as possible. Repeat until your dowel is full.
Our very talented team member, Monja has created some fabulous Scottish Photo booth Props, for you to print and cut out. She has already coloured some for you, but if you're up to the challenge and feeling creative there are some blank ones too. You'll need some scissors, tape and some sticks, straws or pencils to stick your props to.
Why not make yourself a tartan flag using your colourful Tartan Designs from last week?
Download our Photobooth Props Activity Sheet >
Don't forget to tag your photos #NYCTW & #ScotlandShop! We can't wait to see what you come up with. Be sure to check back next week where we will be Hunting for Nessie the Loch Ness Monster. See you then!
