The members of the St. Andrew's Society of Williamsburg present and participate in a variety of events during the year. These activities allow the members and friends to gather together as a community and celebrate Scottish heritage and promote Scottish culture.  The following narratives provide general information on frequent St. Andrew’s Society events and activities.  Although the actual dates for a particular year may vary, the descriptions explain the usual events that occur during that period.

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2024 Events

 

January

The year begins with Burns Night, a gala celebration of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, with members resplendent in full Highland Scottish and formal attire.  Conducted on or near the 25th of the month, this unique gathering is filled with Burns’ poems and songs, the powerful music of the pipes and drums, delicious food and drink, and all that makes for a fun and memorable evening.

 

February

This month marks the return of our monthly pub night, which runs from February through October.  This is a casual and fun event that features an hour of socializing that is usually followed by dinner.

 

April      “Scottish Heritage Month”

Tartan Day is celebrated on or near the 6th of April, which is the officially recognized day in both the U.S. and Canada.  The occasion will often include a tartan parade, a midday meal, and a program that features Scottish music, dancing, and presentations about Scottish culture and history.

 

April/May

The Spring Kirkin’ of the Tartans features a blessing of the Tartans, recreating a popular Scottish-American event originated by the Rev. Peter Marshall in 1940.  The spring Kirkin’ is held at the historic Christ Church in Weems, VA.

 

May

On the 8th of May, members join in celebrating “Founders’ Day.”  The event often includes a luncheon, and perhaps a ceilidh, to commemorate the anniversary of the founding of the St. Andrew’s Society of Williamsburg on May 8, 1968.

 

October/November

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) is convened each year to address Society business requiring the attention of or decisions by the membership.  In addition to the business portion, this event provides a social opportunity for members enjoy good food, fellowship, and entertainment.

 

The Autumn Kirkin of the Tartans features a blessing of the tartans at a local Williamsburg church.

 

December

To mark the holidays, the Society hosts a Christmas luncheon, which may include a ceilidh that may include dancing, singing, poetry and more.

 

Charitable Activities

The Society’s Ken Graham Educational and Charitable Fund provides funds for the award of scholarships to encourage youth in the study of the history, traditions, and culture of Scotland.  The Society also conducts food drives and other activities in support of local charitable organizations.

*For details, email: secretary.standrewssociety.wbg@gmail.com

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Here is a rundown of the 2024 calendar

 

January

• 20th Burns’ Night Celebration

 

February

• 22nd *Pub Night

 

March

• 28th *Pub Night - Anna's Brick Oven, Richmond Rd., at 5:30 pm

 

April

• 6th Tartan Day Celebration – To Be Announced. Food Drive to benefit Grove Christian Outreach Center is scheduled for 10 am. 

• 14th Spring Kirkin’ of the Tartans Christ Church, 420 Christ Church Road, Weems VA

• 25th *Pub Night

 

May

• TBA Founders’ Day Celebration

• 23rd * Pub Night

 

June

• 27th *Pub Night

 

July

• 25th *Pub Night

 

August

• 22nd *Pub Night

 

September

• TBA Autumn Ceilidh

• 26th *Pub Night

 

October

• 18th  Ceremony and wreath laying in remembrance of fallen British forces during

•           the siege of Yorktown (includes Scottish regiments that participated

• 24th *Pub Night

 

November

• TBA Richmond Highland Games (Richmond, VA)

• TBA Fall Kirkin’ of the Tartans

• Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, Williamsburg, VA

• TBA SAS-W Annual General Meeting (AGM)

 

December

• TBA Christmas Luncheon & Ceilidh

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