Celebrate St Andrew’s Day with Scottish Culture in Invercargill

The annual St Andrew’s Day concert will take place this Sunday, November 29, 2023, at the Invercargill Scottish Hall, offering a vibrant celebration of Scottish culture. The event will feature Highland dancing, traditional singing, piping, whisky tasting, and a ceremonial haggis presentation, encouraging both locals and visitors to engage with Scotland’s rich heritage.

Sharon Blackwood, a member of the St Andrew’s Scottish Society and co-organiser of the concert, emphasized the event’s importance in celebrating ancestry and sharing cultural traditions. “It’s just a fun day out for us to celebrate our patron saint, the birth of Scotland, [practise] our traditions and also share our customs and culture with the rest of the community,” she stated.

The concert will showcase young talent this year, starting with a performance by Sam Lindsay from the Invercargill Highland Pipe Band, followed by solo acts from students Will Allen and Laura Kerr from James Hargest College. In addition, concert regular Steve Wilcox will return to entertain attendees. “A lot of the entertainment is Scottish-based but we do try to have a variety,” Blackwood added, ensuring a diverse lineup for all guests.

Attendees are invited to a special service at First Church at 10:00 hours, featuring a kirking of the tartan. This traditional church service serves as a “blessing of the clans and the tartans,” providing an opportunity for participants to don their kilts in celebration of Scottish identity.

During the afternoon concert, refreshments including sandwiches and shortbread will be available. Guests can also participate in a raffle for a chance to win a grocery hamper, adding an extra element of excitement to the day. The festivities will conclude with a massed fling performed by dancers, encapsulating the spirit of Scottish culture.

The St Andrew’s Day Concert is set to begin at 13:30 hours at the Invercargill Scottish Hall, with admission priced at $5. This event promises to be a lively and engaging occasion for anyone interested in exploring the heritage of Scotland.