The Edinburgh Tartan Parade returns on Saturday 9 May 2026 for its second year, celebrating Scotland’s rich heritage, tartan, and global cultural connections in the heart of the nation’s capital. Following a highly successful & spectacular inaugural parade in 2025, which welcomed 1,600 participants, this year’s event is set to grow to approximately 2,500 participants, with thousands of spectators expected to line the route. The parade will step off from the Royal Mile at 1pm, winding down Cockburn Street, across Waverley Bridge, and concluding at the Mound Precinct.
The Parade will be followed by a Participant Ceilidh in the Gardens at the Ross Bandstand in Princes Street Gardens. Please note, this event is exclusively for participants, volunteers, and special guests, and is not open to the general public. In the evening, a Post-Parade Celebration Concert will take place at the Usher Hall, headlined by the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and Ally the Piper (USA), with Gail Porter joining as MC.
The Edinburgh Tartan Parade is organised by a six-member team voluntary group, Tartan Parade Scotland and in part, inspired by the long-established New York Tartan Day Parade. In 2026, the Parade aligns with US 250 commemorations, marking 250 years of shared history between Scotland and the United States. American performers, including Ally the Piper and her band, will travel from the USA to take part in the celebrations. The event also coincides with Europe Day and World Fair Trade Day, providing an opportunity to highlight Scotland’s European and global relationships.
The Edinburgh Tartan Parade is a non-political, inclusive, civic celebration with a focus on heritage, culture and community.
The Edinburgh Tartan Parade takes place on Saturday 9 May 2026. For more details visit: www.tartanparade.scot
Main photo: Leading the way, The Edinburgh Tartan Parade committee. Photos: Tommy Slack.
Do you enjoy our content?
Content on the Scottish Banner website remains free for users. Stories and events listed for the international Scottish community continue to be an important resource for many across the world. As advertising revenue remains a challenge, our readers can donate to help us produce unique Scottish content for global Scots. Every contribution counts and thank you for considering your support.
Support the Scottish Banner! To donate to assist with production of our publication and website visit: The Scottish Banner