Event date for 2023: April 1st at the Killam Legion

​

In the meantime, read below to learn a bit more about Tartan Day, and the official tartans recognized across Canada! 

​

​

WHAT IS TARTAN DAY

Originating in Nova Scotia during the 1980s, Tartan Day is now an observance type of holiday in Canada that was officially declared on October 21, 2010 by the Minister of Canadian Heritage.

 

It is celebrated on April 6th each year as the anniversary of the signing of Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, the Scottish declaration of independence.

​

The Idea of “Tartan Day” started at a meeting of the Federation of Scottish Clans in Nova Scotia on 09 March 1986. Members Bill Crowell and Jean MacKaracher-Watson put forward the following motion to the Federation:

​

“We establish a day called ‘Tartan Day’. This really is a day chosen to market Scottish Heritage from the most visible ways. The wearing of the Scottish attire, particularly in areas where the kilt isn’t ordinarily worn, i.e.: work, play or worship.”

​

April 6th in Scotland is the date of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, which states in part:

​

“. . .It is actually, 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…”

​

In Canada, Tartan Day, April 6th, Canadians are invited to wear tartan in commemoration of the contributions of Scots and their descendants into the fabric of the society. Tartan Day illustrates how to rise above hardships and cruelty with faith in God, dedication and determination.

​

http://www.scotsns.ca/events/tartan-day/

​