Chicago Scots to Hold Annual St. Andrew’s Day Gala, “The Feast of the Haggis,” on November 30, 2024
The Chicago Scots, are celebrating Scotland and Kindness in its 179th Annual Saint Andrew’s Day Gala, “The Feast of the Haggis”, on Saint Andrew’s Day, Saturday, November 30, 2024, beginning at 5 p.m.
This year’s celebration will be held at the historic Palmer House Hilton. In the spirit of the holiday season, all proceeds from the evening will benefit the organization’s principal charity, Caledonia Senior Living and Memory Care in North Riverside, as they recognize the contributions and accomplishments of fellow Scots and support their elder care mission.
Throughout this grand night of tradition, attendees who are Scottish by birth, by heritage or simply by inclination will all enjoy a cocktail reception with a particular Scottish flair, followed by a special presentation of the Haggis and a banquet seated dinner. Entertainment throughout the evening will include live Pipe Band performances and Highland Dancers, along with a special presentation of awards, toasts and tributes.
This year’s awards ceremony will present its highest honor, the 2024 Distinguished Citizen Award, to Sir Niall Ferguson, for his prolific body of work as a globally celebrated Scottish historian, author, and Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University and Senior Fellow at the Belfar Center of Science and International Affairs at Harvard. A prolific commentator and consultant on contemporary economic and political issues, Sir Niall is known for his ability to connect historical insights with current global trends. Sir Niall is also an award-winning filmmaker and was knighted by King Charles III in June 2024 for his contributions to literature.
Additional recognitions will acknowledge Paul and Catherine Melville as the 2024 Kinswoman and Kinsman of the Year, for their outstanding leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing the work of Chicago Scots and the elder care mission at Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care.
Tickets to the 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 information about the Chicago Scots, to purchase tickets to the 179th Annual St. Andrew’s Day and “Feast of the Haggis”, or hotel accommodations, please visit chicagoscots.org.
