Chicago Scots Host 180th Annual “Feast Of The Haggis” Gala
The Chicago Scots, Illinois’ first and oldest non-profit organization, are blending tradition and generosity together at the 180th Annual Saint Andrew’s Day Gala, “The Feast of the Haggis,” on Saturday, December 6 starting at 5 p.m. Never missing a year-even through wars, depressions, and pandemics-the gala returns this year to the historic Palmer House Hilton, an iconic Chicago landmark built with vision and heart at 17 E. Monroe. In the spirit of the giving season, proceeds from the evening will benefit Caledonia Senior Living and Memory Care in North Riverside, celebrating the accomplishments of fellow Scots while supporting elder care in the community. Tickets are extremely limited and expected to sell out quickly.
This grand night of tradition promises a celebration of Scottish culture and pageantry, beginning at 6PM with a cocktail reception featuring Scottish flair, followed by an Awards Dinner Program. Guests will enjoy the Presentation of the Haggis and banquet dinner, along with awards, toasts, and tributes honoring outstanding members of the Scottish community. The festivities continue with highland dance and bagpipe performances as well as an unforgettable musical celebration of Scotland featuring Jai McDowall, winner of Britain’s Got Talent.
This year, the Chicago Scots honor Henry McLeish, former First Minister of Scotland, as the Distinguished Citizen. The evening will feature a 5PM lecture with McLeish in advance of the cocktail reception, covering his political career, his time as one of Scotland’s youngest professional footballers, and his long-standing commitment to senior care and dementia advocacy as Ambassador for Alzheimer Scotland. Commemorating a 30-year career of distinction, including service in Prime Minister Tony Blair’s government and contributions to the Scotland Act, McLeish has also chaired commissions such as the Fair Dementia Care Commission and the Commission on the Future of Long-Term Care, driving policies to ensure equitable, well-funded dementia care.
Tickets to the grand evening begin at $250 per person for general admission which includes access to the open bar and sit-down dinner. Sponsorship packages are also available for those interested. For more information, please email Dawn Miller at [email protected]. Donations of any kind are also very welcome. The dress code is Highland Evening Dress or Black-Tie encouraged.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3337386-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3337386-2
