Resident Starts Petition for Tartan Day Festival

Roxborough resident Joe Gould recently started an online petition to find out if other residents in the area would be interested in holding a Tartan Day parade and festival.

Tartan Day is on April 6, and it is a celebration of Scottish heritage. Patch asked Gould a few questions about the petition:

Patch: Why are you interested in starting a Tartan Day Parade?

Joe Gould:  Well I first got the idea for a Tartan Day Parade a few years ago when I found out about the large Tartan Day Parade that takes place in New York City. I thought it would be a good idea to have one in Philadelphia, but I was never really sure how to get that idea rolling, and being younger at the time, I really didn't feel that I would be able to make anything happen. Having just turned 21 this past February though, I was reminded of the idea in recent days and decided to see if there would be an interest in having an event like this in my own community.

Patch: Why do you think Roxborough would be a good fit for a parade and festival?

Joe Gould: I am Scottish on my Fathers side, and Scottish festivals and traditions have always been special to me since I was a little kid. It always seemed like we would have to travel so far to get to a festival or an event though, so having one right in my own backyard has always been a dream; and organizing one would make it that much better!I'd like to organize this Parade and Festival in Roxborough simply because Roxborough is my home, and sharing the sound of the Bagpipes, the thrill of the Highland Dancers, the great music, and the general warm and friendly atmosphere that comes along with these Parades and festivals is something that I'd really love to give my neighbors the opportunity to experience! My hope is that this would be something that brings the community closer together.

Besides the fact that Roxborough is my home, I think that Roxborough really is an ideal choice for a new parade and festival. I participate in The 4th of July Parade every year and that is always such a good time for all who are involved and all who are watching, so why not add yet another annual parade to the list of events that take place in our area? Also, Gorgas Park has proven over the years to be a great location for Community events such as the summer concerts and fireworks. Just as with the rest of the events, Gorgas Park would be ideal for a traditional Scottish festival.

Patch: What kind of festivities did you have in mind?

Joe Gould:  As far as what festivities would be going on; Ideally, if we would be able to raise enough money and support, I would say that for the parade there would be Highland Pipe and Drum bands from around our area along with Highland Dancers and Scottish Societies from around Philadelphia. Also marching would be the local churches if they wish and the schools around the area would be invited to participate and contribute what they would want to the parade. (after all, this would be an event with a big focus on the Community.) A Grand Marshall for the Parade would also have to be chosen, and possibly this man or woman would be someone of stature.

As for the Festival; Pipe Bands and Highland Dancers would perform along with local bands and musicians of Scottish music. Vendors would be spread about selling trinkets, shirts, food and other things that would go along with the Scottish theme of the day. The kids wouldn't be forgotten either, we would make sure there would be plenty of fun things for them to do like face painting and games.

I have so many ideas swirling around, but this is just the very, very early stages of this project. EVERYTHING hinges on community interest and support, without the community this idea will never get off the ground.

If you are supportive of Joe's idea feel free to click here to be taken directly to the petition.

Let us know what you think of Tartan Day festivities. Share your thoughts in the comments area below.