The Tartan Parade is among the youngest parades in the City. Nonetheless, it's grown to become a powerful presence at the NYC scene since 1997, when the U.S. Senate declared April 6 the National Tartan Day. This day has a special meaning to all Americans of Scottish descent, because on this day in 1320 the Declaration of Arbroath, the Scottish Declaration of Independence, was signed. It is also a special day for all Americans, since our own Declaration of Independence is patterned on that fateful document. Not to mention that almost half of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were of Scottish descent as were nine governors of the original thirteen states. What makes the Tartan Day truly special is that it's so interwoven with our own heritage and values. The Tartan Day Parade in NYC, which marches on Saturday or Sunday closest to April 6, is the culmination of the festivities. It is the city's biggest celebration of pipers, drummers, Scottish music and, of course, the world famous single malt whisky. It also features Scottish clans and organizations, who step out for this special occasion. The Parade route begins between West 43rd and West 46th Street on Sixth Avenue; from there it marches north into Central Park. In a true festive spirit, the Parade is preceded by a traditional Pre-Parade Ceilidh at the Caledonian Club the night before. A classic Scottish get-together, "ceilidh" ("KAY-lee") is Gaelic for a "singing, feasting, dancing and a rather boisterous good time".