St. Andrew's Day.

**Hamish** · 25th November 04, 06:34 PM

I just heard part of an interesting interview on the radio. It was with Brian Wilton of The Scottish Tartans Authority.

When asked about the significance and importance of St. Andrew's Day in Scotland, Mr. Wilton replied that it was, to all intents and purposes, a non-event and was pretty much ignored in Scotland. The day was much more likely to be celebrated by ex-pats abroad than by Scots at home. "You might see a few more Saltires flying, around the country on 30th November, but that's about all," he added.

A final question to him was to ask if he was wearing the kilt today (the interview was over a 'phone link), and if so what Tartan was it? "Oh, yes, I am wearing the kilt, but it's not a tartan one - it's a plain black kilt!"

So, even officers of the Scottish Tartans Authority wear plain kilts! As a member myself, with thirteen plain Scottish kilts to my name, I find that rather interesting - if not comforting.

**Jimmy Carbomb** · 26th November 04, 10:12 AM

...and another member that wears solids too!

I'm really not surprised by Brian's words. I'm even LESS surprised by the facts.

Ireland on St. Patrick's Day is NOTHING like it is here in the US.

**Martin** · 26th November 04, 10:23 AM

and here in England, we're guilty of all-but ignoring St. George's day too.

I don't know if it is celebrated more fervently by ex-pats.

any out there who can let me know?

**macwilkin** · 26th November 04, 11:07 AM

I know there are some St. George's Societies in New York and in Canada that have celebrations.

This Sunday there will be 5 of us wearing kilts to one of services out our church for an early celebration of St. Andrew's Day -- I'll see about getting some photos.

Cheers,

T.

**beverlonian** · 26th November 04, 11:15 AM

Originally Posted by Martin

and here in England, we're guilty of all-but ignoring St. George's day too.

I don't know if it is celebrated more fervently by ex-pats.

any out there who can let me know?

Agree with you here Martin. I doubt if many could tell you when it is, and a lot would probably not know who he was (whilst wearing the flag to an England football match)