Quote Originally Posted by kingandrew View Post
I lived in Alexandria back in 2001-2003. I remember stumbling upon this event completely unawares and really enjoying seeing all the fabulous kilts and accessories, hearing the pipe bands, and the whole mood of the event.

At that time, I had not encountered more than a few people who owned kilts. So it was great to see Highland attire "in the flesh," rather than in a book illustration. In those days my finances were quite tight, and I recall visiting a tartan shop on King Street in Alexandria, marveling at both the craftsmanship and sticker prices on the sporrans and other kilt-related items.

I also remember there was a Scottish-themed restaurant on King Street at the time, called "Scotland Yard." It was well out of my price range then.

I will be unable to attend the event this year, as I am currently working in Beijing. I did stop by my Chinese tailor tonight for a fitting on my new brown tweed Argyll jacket and waistcoat, which should be ready for me to wear to work on St. Andrew's Day next week (which arrives 13 hours earlier in Beijing than in Alexandria).

If you are anywhere near the DC area, it is worth checking out the Scottish Walk.

Andrew
I've been participating in Alexndria's Scottish Walk since about 1989, when my living history group at the time (18th c. British Army Highlanders of either the 42nd or 77th (Montgomery's) regiments) marched in the procession doing simple drill maneuvers. Lately, I've been marching with my Jacobite living history group, the Appin Regiment of 1745. However, this year I've a command performance to attend at my grandson's 3rd birthday party in Fredericksburg - I'll miss seeing all y'all!
I remember the "Scotland Yard" restaurant and had some good meals there. They had a three-course menu (several selections in each course) for a fixed price. I remember that the Scotch eggs were particularly good. The maître 'd (a Scottish gentleman whose name I forget) sat kilted on a chair outside the restaurant entrance and welcomed diners. He once told me that he was once a music promoter in the UK whose firm once turned down the Beatles when they were just a local Liverpool band.
I hope that all XMarkers that are able to attend Alexandria's Scottish Walk have a great time! I'll be there with you in spirit.