St. Andrew's Day Ceilidh
Ever wonder what a Scottish Ceilidh actually looks like? Picture high-energy spins, linking arms with neighbors, and a whole lot of friendly chaos! It’s not about perfect footwork or stiff routines. It's about jumping into long lines and big circles, skipping to upbeat jigs, and laughing your way through missed steps.
If you can clap to the beat, you're ready for the floor! Lochanside will be driving the tunes, and our caller will teach you every spin and step on the spot. Come jump in the circle with us!
Here are four of the most popular and classic dances traditionally performed at a Scottish Ceilidh:
The Gay Gordons
A couple’s dance where pairs form a large circle moving around the room. Dancers walk forward together, turn, walk backward, and then the lead twirls their partner under their arm before spinning around to the lively music. It’s usually the opening dance because the steps are simple to learn.
Strip the Willow
A classic, high-energy line dance where two long lines of dancers face each other. Couples take turns spinning each other in the middle using an elbow-grip before moving down the line to "strip" past every other dancer with fast-paced spins. It ends with a burst of playful energy as the music gradually speeds up.
The Dashing White Sergeant
Danced in sets of three (usually one dancer with two partners, or any group of three) facing another group of three. The dancers join hands to circle around, weave in and out of each other, and spin with partners in a figure-eight pattern before marching past the opposite group to meet a new trio.
The Canadian Barn Dance
A progressive, easygoing dance done in pairs around the room. Couples march forward and back, step side-to-side together, and then turn and skip forward to switch partners or move on to the next couple in line.
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 5357
November 21, 2026
7pm-10pm
Online Members $15
Online Non Member $20
At the Door $20
Burns Night Celebration
Burns Night is an annual Scottish celebration held in January to commemorate the life and poetry of Robert Burns, the nation’s beloved "Bard." The evening centers around a traditional Burns Supper, featuring a hearty menu of haggis, sausages, root vegetables, and tatties (potatoes), often accompanied by plenty of Scotch whisky. A key highlight is the theatrical recital of the poem "Address to a Haggis," where the main dish is ceremoniously sliced open with a dirk. The festivities are rounded out with spirited toasts, such as the "Toast to the Lassies," readings of Burns' famous verses, and energetic dancing. To conclude the night, guests traditionally join hands to sing "Auld Lang Syne," a poignant tribute to friendship and days gone by.
St. Andrew’s Society of Madison Burns Night 2027
When: January 23, 2027
Where: Forward Club at Breese Stevens Field
Time: Cash Bar starts at 5pm
Programming runs from 6pm-9pm
Members Price: $50
Non Members Price: $60
Ticket Includes: The ticket provides a complete Scottish experience, including a full meal featuring a traditional portion of haggis, a celebratory shot of whisky, and live entertainment with bagpiping, singing, and dancing. Additionally, guests can browse and bid on one-of-a-kind Scottish-themed items in a curated silent auction.
St. Andrew's Society Annual General Meeting
An Annual General Meeting (AGM) is our once-a-year opportunity to gather as a community, look back at everything we’ve accomplished, and lay out our vision for the year ahead. It’s how we keep our nonprofit accountable and transparent, giving everyone a clear look at our financial health, event impact, and overall governance. During the meeting, we handle essential business like electing board members and voting on key updates to ensure we stay strong and legally compliant. Above all, it’s a space to connect with our members and supporters, celebrate our shared progress, and make sure we’re keeping our mission moving forward together.
Tartan Day Ceilidh
What exactly is a Ceilidh? Think of a giant, welcoming dance party where nobody cares if you mess up the steps!
Expect fast-paced reels, linking arms to swing your partner, and plenty of laughs. There's zero experience required—our caller walks everyone through the simple group formations before the music even starts, and Lochanside keeps the live energy high all afternoon. Grab the kids, grab a friend, and let’s get spinning!
Here are four of the most popular and classic dances traditionally performed at a Scottish Ceilidh:
The Gay Gordons
A couple’s dance where pairs form a large circle moving around the room. Dancers walk forward together, turn, walk backward, and then the lead twirls their partner under their arm before spinning around to the lively music. It’s usually the opening dance because the steps are simple to learn.
Strip the Willow
A classic, high-energy line dance where two long lines of dancers face each other. Couples take turns spinning each other in the middle using an elbow-grip before moving down the line to "strip" past every other dancer with fast-paced spins. It ends with a burst of playful energy as the music gradually speeds up.
The Dashing White Sergeant
Danced in sets of three (usually one dancer with two partners, or any group of three) facing another group of three. The dancers join hands to circle around, weave in and out of each other, and spin with partners in a figure-eight pattern before marching past the opposite group to meet a new trio.
The Canadian Barn Dance
A progressive, easygoing dance done in pairs around the room. Couples march forward and back, step side-to-side together, and then turn and skip forward to switch partners or move on to the next couple in line.
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 5357
April 03, 2027
7pm-10pm
Online Members $15
Online Non Member $20
At the Door $20
Scottish Showcase
Join us for the Scottish Showcase at Capital Brewery! Enjoy a free, family-friendly afternoon of Scottish culture featuring live performances by Madison Pipes and Drums, Highland Dancers, Lochanside, and Scottish Country Dancers. Kids can get creative in our activity area making their own family crest shield. Wrap up the day with a fun Mini-Ceilidh from 3–4 PM, where a caller will teach easy Scottish dances set to live music. Perfect for all ages—come kick up your heels and celebrate!
Event Schedule & Highlights
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Kids’ Clan Shield Zone Ongoing craft area where young visitors design and assemble their own Family Crest Shield to take home.
1:00 PM Madison Pipes and Drums Traditional Scottish pipe-and-drum performance opening the showcase.
1:30 PM Breckenridge School of Highland Dance High-energy traditional Highland dance showcase.
2:00 PM Lochanside Trad Band Acoustic set featuring traditional Scottish folk music and instrumentals.
2:30 PM Madison Scottish Country Dancers Exhibition of traditional social and reel dances.
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Interactive Family Mini-Ceilidh Event finale featuring live music by Lochanside and a caller guiding attendees of all skill levels through beginner-friendly group dances.
Tartan Day Ceilidh
🎉 Get Your Plaid On! It’s Time for a Cèilidh! 🎉
What’s a Cèilidh (KAY-lee), you ask?
Imagine a Scottish wedding reception WITHOUT the vows, the speeches, or the awkward family dynamics... but with ALL the fun! 🍻💃🕺
No kilt? No problem!
You don’t have to be Scottish—just grab your best plaid, your dancing shoes (or boots, we’re not picky), and get ready for a night of drinks, dancing, and shenanigans! 🎶🎉
We’ll teach you to dance like a true Scot—from jigs to reels and everything in between. Whether you’re a pro or have two left feet, you’ll be shaking it like a Highlander in no time! 🏴
🕒 Dancing kicks off at 7pm and goes all the way until 10pm.
Don’t miss out on the fun, the music, the laughter, and maybe even a few too many drams!
So, come for the dance, stay for the craic—because who needs a wedding when you’ve got a Cèilidh like this? 🍻💃
See you there!
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 53575
Non Member Tickets: $20
Member Tickets: $15
$20 for all tickets sold at the door
Annual General Meeting
Agenda for the Annual General Meeting
President’s Welcome
Treasurer’s Report
Bylaw Voting
Voting on Council Members: Vice President, Secretary, Member-At-Large (3)
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 53575
**SOLD OUT**2026 Burns Dinner
SOLD OUT
January 24, 2026
Join us for a Burns Supper hosted at Breese Stevens Field: Forward Club.
$40 for St. Andrew's Members Link
$50 for Non-members Link
Ticket includes: dinner, dram of whisky, haggis, and entertainment
Schedule of events:
5-6 Happy Hour (Cash Bar)
6pm Presentation of the Haggis
Dinner and entertainment to immediately follow.
St. Andrew’s Day Cèilidh! 2025
🎉 Get Your Plaid On! It’s Time for a Cèilidh! 🎉
What’s a Cèilidh (KAY-lee), you ask?
Imagine a Scottish wedding reception WITHOUT the vows, the speeches, or the awkward family dynamics... but with ALL the fun! 🍻💃🕺
No kilt? No problem!
You don’t have to be Scottish—just grab your best plaid, your dancing shoes (or boots, we’re not picky), and get ready for a night of drinks, dancing, and shenanigans! 🎶🎉
We’ll teach you to dance like a true Scot—from jigs to reels and everything in between. Whether you’re a pro or have two left feet, you’ll be shaking it like a Highlander in no time! 🏴
🕒 Dancing kicks off at 7pm and goes all the way until 10pm.
Don’t miss out on the fun, the music, the laughter, and maybe even a few too many drams!
So, come for the dance, stay for the craic—because who needs a wedding when you’ve got a Cèilidh like this? 🍻💃
See you there!
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 53575
Non Member Tickets: $20
Member Tickets: $15
Tartan Day Ceilidh
🎉 Get Your Plaid On! It’s Time for a Cèilidh! 🎉
What’s a Cèilidh (KAY-lee), you ask?
Imagine a Scottish wedding reception WITHOUT the vows, the speeches, or the awkward family dynamics... but with ALL the fun! 🍻💃🕺
No kilt? No problem!
You don’t have to be Scottish—just grab your best plaid, your dancing shoes (or boots, we’re not picky), and get ready for a night of drinks, dancing, and shenanigans! 🎶🎉
We’ll teach you to dance like a true Scot—from jigs to reels and everything in between. Whether you’re a pro or have two left feet, you’ll be shaking it like a Highlander in no time! 🏴
🕒 Dancing kicks off at 7pm and goes all the way until 10pm.
Don’t miss out on the fun, the music, the laughter, and maybe even a few too many drams!
So, come for the dance, stay for the craic—because who needs a wedding when you’ve got a Cèilidh like this? 🍻💃
See you there!
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 53575
Non Member Tickets: $17
Member Tickets: $12
Annual General Meeting
Agenda for the Annual General Meeting
President’s Welcome
Treasurer’s Report
Bylaw Voting
Voting on Council Members: Vice President, Secretary, Member-At-Large (3)
Four Winds Farm
5735 Adams Road
Fitchburg, WI 53575
2025 Burns Dinner
January 25, 2025
Join us for a Burns Supper hosted at Breese Stevens Field: Forward Club.
$40 for St. Andrew's Members
$50 for Non-members
Ticket includes: dinner, dram of whisky, haggis, and entertainment
Schedule of events:
5-6 Happy Hour (Cash Bar)
6pm Presentation of the Haggis
Dinner and entertainment to immediately follow.
St. Andrew's Day Ceilidh
What’s a Cèilidh (KAY-lee) you ask?
Think a Scottish wedding reception without the wedding.
No need to be Scottish! No kilt required!
Just throw on your best plaid and come learn to dance like a Scot!
Join us for drinks, dancing, and shenanigans! Dancing from 6pm-11pm.
***NEW LOCATION***
VFW Post 7591
301 Cottage Grove Rd
Madison, WI 53716
Member Tickets: $10 Buy tickets here!
Non-member Tickets: $15 Buy Tickets here!
UW Homecoming Parade
Watch as classic cars, fun floats, the UW Marching Band, Bucky Badger, and more bring UW cheer to the heart of campus. Presented by the Wisconsin Union and the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee.
The St. Andrew’s Society of Madison will be marching behind Madison Pipes and Drums. Join us to walk with the Society or give us a cheer along the parade route.
2024 Sun Prairie Multicultural Fair
Join the St. Andrew’s Society of Madison at the Sun Prairie Multicultural Fair. on September 21st from 11am-4pm. The society will have a booth with bagpipes, Scottish history, and shield making for the kids.
Find more info about the event here!
Saturday, September 21, 2024
Sheehan Park
1375 Linnerud Drive
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
Scottish Showcase Concert-September 6
Join us for an evening of Scottish arts! Performances by Madison Pipes & Drums, Lochanside Ceilidh Band, Breckenridge Highland Dance School, and Madison Scottish Country Dancers.
6pm-7pm - Meet and Greet
7pm-9:30pm Concert
Buy your tickets at the door!
Magic Pride Festival
The St. Andrew’s Society of Madison will have a booth at the 2024 Magic Pride Festival. Stop over and check out some bagpipes and history about Scotland while experiencing the amazing stage shows, food, and vendors.
To find out more info about the Magic Pride Festival click here!
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Warner Park
2930 North Sherman Avenue
Madison, WI 53704
St. Andrew's Society Night at the Duck Pond
~Take Me Out to The Ball Game~
Grab your tartan and join us for a night at the ballpark when the Madison Mallards take on the Lakeshore Chinooks.
Buy your tickets through the link below to have half of your ticket price donated back to the St. Andrew’s Society of Madison!
Madison Mallards vs. Lakeshore Chinooks
*first pitch is at 6:05!
Please know that the link talks about the Nightmares game (at 3:35 on July 6th), but the tickets you will purchase through our link is only good for the Mallards tickets that start at 6:05 on July 6th, not for the softball game.
Capital City Highland Dance Competition
The Capital City Highland Dance Competition is returning to the wonderful Oakwood Village University Woods' auditorium and arts venue, which is a fantastic semi-professional theatre in an assisted living community. The competition will feature a varied mix of Highland dances with loads of chances to watch cute kids "get out there and dance”. St. Andrew’s Society members get in for free!
St. Andrew's Society General Meeting
Join us for our Annual General Meeting. We will be discussing the past year and looking ahead at future plans of the Society. Please consider joining us for this event to give input on future plans.
Join us as Stateline Distillery
Tartan Day Ceilidh ** Featuring the Lochanside Ceilidh Band**
What’s a Cèilidh (KAY-lee) you ask?
Think a Scottish wedding reception without the wedding.
No need to be Scottish! No kilt required!
Just throw on your best plaid and come learn to dance like a Scot!
Join us at Old Sugar Distillery for drinks, dancing, and shenanigans! Dancing from 7pm-10pm.
OLD SUGAR DISTILLERY
931 E MAIN ST, MADISON, WI 53703
Tickets are $12. No tickets will be sold at the door due to number constraints.
2024 Burns Dinner
Join us for a Burns Supper hosted at Breese Stevens Field: Forward Club.
$35 for St. Andrew's Members
$45 for Non-members
Ticket includes: dinner, dram of whisky, haggis, and entertainment
Schedule of events:
5-6 Happy Hour (Cash Bar)
6pm Presentation of the Haggis
Dinner and entertainment to immediately follow
*Directions and parking info from Breese Stevens Field: https://www.breesestevensfield.com/parking-map