What to do in Scotland for St Andrew's Day 2017

St Andrew’s Day is celebrated on the feast day of St Andrew (November 30th). As we look forward to this year’s St Andrew’s Day celebrations it’s important to know the history behind this national day. St Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland whose feast day has been celebrated for over a thousand years. St Andrew's philosophy was simple: share what you have with those less fortunate and be kind to each other. Each year we celebrate these principles with a host of parties and special events for everyone to enjoy! The day is usually marked with a celebration of Scottish culture, including dancing, music, food and drink, with parties going on long into the cold winter night. If you’re visiting Scotland during this time or you’re a local looking to experience something different this year, their is plenty on the program.

ST ANDREW'S DAY IN EDINBURGH

Edinburgh, being Scotland’s very pretty capital is not a bad place to start if you wish to celebrate St Andrew’s day in style. Attend theatrical storytelling events, soak up traditional music and sample the markets offering scottish street food. The Scottish Storytelling centre hosts 2 winter warmer events to celebrate St Andrew's Day. Although not on St Andrew's Days, The Café Ceilidh: St Andrew’s Day Celebration takes place on the 28th of November bringing traditional songs, music and poems to life for a unique experience. On the 30th of November you can also attend the Fisherman’s Feast, Sailor’s Rest. This event blends Scotland’s much loved fish-and-chip with music and stories of Scottish folklore.

ST ANDREW'S DAY IN GLASGOW

Another great city with a great lineup of events for St Andrew’s Day is Glasgow. Delve into a vivid programme of events in the great city of Glasgow, and while you're visiting, don't forget to sample delicious food and drink from some of the region's finest producers. Make sure you don’t miss the St Andrew’s Day Torchlight Parade. Locals, groups and families are all welcome to take part in this early evening event which is sure to make for a memorable experience as the flaming procession moves through Glasgow’s city streets.

ST ANDREW’S DAY IN IRVINE

If you're passing through Irvine make sure to check out the stunning Illumination: Harbour Festival of Light which begins on St Andrew's day and returns for the second year in a row. Irvine’s historic and picturesque waterfront, which also boasts the Scottish Maritime Museum, comes to life with a spectacular light show on the water. Top that off with a water front firework display and water-themed sculpture trail by international light artists Aether & Hemera. For a truly memorable afternoon or night out, make sure to scoop up tickets to see the breathtaking aerial acrobatics and extraordinary light show at the Scottish Maritime Museum's iconic Linthouse too.