St. Andrew’s Society of Utah
In 1991, St. Andrew’s Society of Utah was founded by a group of individuals of Scottish descent to keep their heritage alive and to celebrate their roots with others of Scottish descent. As a non-profit, non-denominational organization, St. Andrew’s Society is dedicated to promoting Scottish culture, traditions and heritage and charity help in the community. As a family friendly Society, St. Andrew’s maintains that educating the next generation is important to maintaining the rich history of the Scots here in Utah.
Each month members (and non- members) gather to support Scottish events, or if no Scottish event is on the calendar, members and their friends get together for a pot luck dinner and to explore Scottish traditions, culture and/or history. There have been presentations on famous Scottish battles, clan reports, song and dance or just good old fun and games. Members have been known to attend ballets, concerts, symphonies bagpipe concerts and other events with a Celtic theme. Any reason to put on the kilt is a good one. We have organized concerts in past years with artist Steven McDonald and then Wicked Tinkers.
St. Andrew’s charity projects include donating “Comfort Critters” to Payson City Police Department, Tooele City Police, Murray City Crisis Workers and Shriner’s Hospital to be used for sick, scared or injured children. St. Andrew’s members support community events such as Utah Scottish Association’s annual Burns Supper, Tartan Ball and their highland games in June. In July, the Payson Scottish Association’s Scottish Festival as well as Kirkin’ O’ the Tartan services in June and October.
At our 13th kilted golf tournament August 16, at The Ranches, there will be a piper on hand to pipe the players on the course. That evening the annual Ceilidh (party or social gathering) at Cougar Park in Kearns, is where families come together for an end of summer picnic and activities. All St. Andrew’s events are for members and non-members who want to learn and enjoy a little Scottish culture and company. There is a formal dinner and fund raising auction in November to celebrate St. Andrew’s Day (November 30) and the Christmas party is a favorite with Santa making an appearance with gifts for the wee ones.
Information on St. Andrew’s Society of Utah and its upcoming events can be located on our website at utahstandrews. org and on our Facebook page.