Fri Nov 22 22:17:38 UTC 2024: ## Dunedin to Celebrate St. Andrew’s Day with a Full Programme of Scottish Festivities
**DUNEDIN, October 26** – Dunedin’s Octagon will be filled with the sounds of bagpipes and the spirit of Scotland on Saturday, November 30th, as the biannual St. Andrew’s Day celebrations return. From 10 am to 3 pm, the free, all-weather event promises a day of Scottish heritage, fun, and festivities.
The day will feature a packed schedule of entertainment including performances by the Dunedin Harmony Chorus, Dunedin Scottish Fiddle Orchestra, Catgut & Steel, Ghillie Callum Junior Club Dancers, Grumpy Scotsman Trio, piper Qwenton Mackenzie, Bob Scotts Tangle Trio, poet Laureate David Eggleton, Scottish troubadour Bill Mullen, and the City of Dunedin Pipe Band. A dramatic haggis ceremony led by Ian Seatter will be a highlight.
For those feeling strong, Invercargill strongman Callum McConachy will demonstrate stone lifting and carrying, offering advice and encouraging participation. Attendees can also try their hand at Highland Games events, like speed porridge eating. A variety of Scottish food and drink will be available, including haggis pies, shortbread, and a special Scottish ale.
The celebrations will conclude with a mass rendition of “Flower of Scotland.” The Dunedin Edinburgh Sister City Society, organizers of the event, are seeking volunteers for future celebrations.
A fundraising after-party will be held on Sunday, December 1st, at Moons in the Exchange (286 Princes St) from 12 noon onwards. The $10 entry fee includes raffles, giveaways, live music, a haggis-eating competition, and the chance to try bagpiping. Scottish food and drinks will be available for purchase. Table bookings are recommended. The after-party will feature live music from The Tangle, Catgut & Steel, Wild Cards Aotearoa, and Three Grumpy Scotsman.
For more information, visit the Dunedin Edinburgh Sister City Society website.
First Piper 