Scotland has been making waves on social media for this World Cup, and it’s not because of its soccer team.
A traveling troupe of devoted fans, known as the “Tartan Army,” has been making stops across U.S.-hosted cities in support of their nation’s team, donned in their kilts, bagpipes and good o’ Scottish flair. As they put it, “No Scotland, no party.”
Their presence is being felt with each stop they make; they have become the World Cup’s loudest and most visible fanbase in the tournament.
Their previous stop was at Boston, Massachusetts, where they famously drank the city dry, leaving shortages of alcohol throughout its many bars. Now, they’re in South Florida where their soccer team is playing at the Hard Rock Stadium against Brazil.
Win or lose, the Tartan Army will sing, chant and drink their way into a good time. Fans from other nations are openly embracing them wherever they go.
On June 24, part of the Tartan Army made an entrance like no other at Mickey Byrne’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, located in 1921 Hollywood Blvd. in Hollywood. The streets echoed with bagpipes, Scottish chants and singing.
“[I] wasn’t expecting this much of the Army to be here, or the support with all the hospitality the hosting nation has provided,” said Louise, a Tartan Army representative.
They may have had an uphill battle with their team facing off against Brazil, but one thing is certain: win or lose, the Tartan Army is here to party.
