Sunday Choral Evensong with Kirkin' o' the Tartan

Enter the Cathedral’s Great Choir and find yourself transported to the gates of heaven. This centuries-old service blends prayers and Psalms with congregational hymns, showcasing the best of Anglican tradition. This service of sung prayer closes the day in praise to God, led by the Cathedral Choir and a brief reflection from the clergy.

This service will be streamed on our Evensong page and on the Cathedral’s YouTube channel.

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kirkin o’ the tartan

The pageantry of the Highlands returns to the Cathedral as the Saint Andrew’s Society of Washington, DC, marches into Washington National Cathedral for the annual Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan. Accompanied by its Pipes and Drums and Colour Guard, close to 100 society members pay tribute to their Scottish ancestors who struggled to preserve their liberties and religious freedoms.

Event History

The Saint Andrew’s Society of Washington, D.C., is the originator of the North American tradition of “kirkin” (or blessing) the tartan, which has now spread throughout the U.S. and Canada. The original Kirkin’ was held in Washington, D.C., on April 27, 1941, to raise funds for British war relief. The event now supports scholarships awarded by the Society’s Charity and Education Fund.

Close to 100 Society members, led by bagpipers and drums, process into the Cathedral. A ceremony to bless the tartans and the families represented by the cloth follows a brief homily. After the recessional to the south side of the Cathedral, all are welcome to enjoy entertainment by Saint Andrew’s Society Pipes and Drums and Highland dancers.

For more information about the Saint Andrew’s Society of Washington, DC, visit www.saintandrewsociety.org.