National Tartan Day is April 6

What is National Tartan Day? It is a celebration of Scottish heritage that marks the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath. This document, dated April 6, 1320, was the original Scottish declaration of independence. The US began observing this holiday on the 1980’s, starting in New York, which today hosts the biggest Scottish Celebration of the year.

If you have a dog of Scottish decent, you probably have some interest in Scottish Culture. In the US, National Tartan Day is marked by fairs, parades and highland games held around the country in April. Many of these events have dog-related activities in which you can register your dog. Whether it be to dress your dog in Scottish Tartans for a parade, or to display their performance skills in events like sheep herding, you and your dog should be sporting a tartan on this day.

Dates/locations of National Tartan Day Celebrations in April

It is a little disappointing to note here that not all the events listed below allow dogs as spectators/attendees. Dogs are usually registered participants – either for the parades or game participants. So Be sure to check in advance on pet attendance policies before bringing your 4-footed Scottish friend along.

NYC Tartan Day Celebration & Parade April 9th. One of the biggest celebrations in the United States. Some special happenings, like their Special Contest for Scotties & Westies, will be worth attending.

Tartan Day South – March 31 – April 3, Cayce, South Carolina

Tartan Day Scottish Faire – April 2nd, Fremont, CA

Colorado Tartan Day Festival – April 9 – 10, Longmont, CO

Dunedin Highland Games, April 2, Dunedin Fl

Las Vegas Highland Games, April 16 – 17, Las Vegas, NV

Can’t be there? Celebrate in spirit with a Tartan Dog Collar from The Artful Canine and strut your Scottish Mutt in your own personal Scottish neighborhood parade!

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