Scotland Brings Tartan Taxis to Manhattan for NYC Tartan Week | News
Scotland arrived in New York this week, with specially wrapped tartan taxis plying the streets of Manhattan as part of NYC Tartan Week. The activity is part of VisitScotland’s work to promote Scotland to the largest international market, using NYC Tartan Week to inspire the American public to plan a trip.
The vehicles were joined by artists from The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, who posed against the Manhattan skyline and brought Scottish culture to life ahead of the NYC Tartan Day Parade on Sixth Avenue this Saturday, led by Outlander star Sam Heughan as Grand Marshal.
Tartan Day (April 6) is celebrated in the United States and recognizes the long-standing cultural and historical ties between Scotland and the US. NYC Tartan Week builds on this national moment and culminates in the NYC Tartan Day Parade.
Cat Leaver, Director of Strategy and Creative Intelligence at VisitScotland, said:
“NYC Tartan Week, which builds on the Tartan Day Parade, is a strategically important opportunity to highlight Scotland in our largest international visitor market, where there is strong growth potential. It provides a platform to showcase what makes Scotland a must-visit destination.
Our operations in New York allow us to connect directly with the American public, as well as media and travel partners, raising awareness and driving future travel demand. With a packed events programme, new experiences and improved connectivity – including direct flights from New York to Glasgow – 2026 is the perfect time to visit Scotland.”
Alan Lane, Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said:
“The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is proud to represent Scotland on the world stage and Tartan Week provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with audiences in New York.
Bringing a taste of the Tattoo to the city showcases the world-class creativity and talent that visitors experience wherever and whenever they are in Scotland.”
VisitScotland’s activities during NYC Tartan Week include media engagement, on-screen tourism panel, destination training, NBC activity, branded taxis and engagement with travel and industry partners.
The US is Scotland’s largest international visitor market. In 2024, US visitors accounted for 22% (964,339) of all overseas travel and 36% (£1.4 billion) of total international visitor spend, with visitors tending to stay longer and spend more, becoming a vital part of Scotland’s visitor economy.
For more information about planning a trip to Scotland, visit:
www.visitscotland.com
www.edintattoo.co.uk
