Tartan Day 2021

What is Tartan? 

Originating in Highlands of Scotland, Tartan is used to represent a Clan through woven vertical and horizontal design along with specific colour patterns. This allows individuals to identify with their ancestral roots through material. Kilts, dresses, ribbon, ties and many more articles of clothing are made with specific tartans.

Not only do clan names have their own tartan, but towns and provinces do as well. Here are some examples of the Antigonish Tartan as well as the Province of Nova Scotia Tartan: 

Town of Antigonish Tartan

Province of Nova Scotia Tartan

If you are interested in finding your own clan or just looking to explore some tartan, here is a website that allows you to browse through the various tartans out there! 

Scottish Tartans Authority: The place for tartan and highland dress

Tartan Day

Tartan Day is a North American celebration of Scottish heritage on April 6th, on the date on which the Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320. It originated in Canada in the mid-1980s. Tartan Days typically have parades of pipe bands, highland dancing or other Scottish-themed events.  Nova Scotia was the first Canadian province to establish Tartan Day as an annual day of cultural celebration.

On this day, we show ancestral pride by wearing tartan, giving gratification to the ones before us while surrounding ourselves with Scottish culture. The board of the Antigonish Highland Society celebrates by hosting a community event that highlights Scottish traditions. By wearing some form of tartan on April 6th, you are showing your support and appreciation for the Scottish culture. 

Enjoy some photos of our Tartan Day Celebration this year!