Senior pupils from Robert Gordon’s College travelled to New York City during the Easter holidays to take part in the world-renowned Tartan Week, marking the College’s second appearance in the New York Tartan Day Parade. Building on the success of their debut visit in 2024, the Pipe Band and Highland Dancers once again represented RGC on a global stage, performing alongside groups from across Scotland and internationally, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, and the United States.

Throughout the week, pupils rehearsed and performed at some of Manhattan’s most iconic locations, including Central Park, Times Square, and the Brooklyn Bridge. These experiences gave pupils the chance to share their talents with a wide international audience and gain confidence performing outside of the school environment.

Welcome reception at Nasdaq
A particular highlight of this year’s visit was the welcome reception at Nasdaq in Times Square, hosted by former pupil Will Rhind (Class of ’96), Founder and CEO of GraniteShares. The evening brought together Gordonians from across North America and the UK, providing a chance for pupils and alumni to connect, enjoy early performances, and mark the start of Tartan Weekend.

Tartan Day Parade
Building excitement ahead of the parade, RGC pipers, drummers, and dancers performed at Bryant Park, organised by the American Scottish Foundation. Crowds watched as the pupils showcased their skills. Meanwhile, RGC alumni gathered in T-Squared Social for a pre-parade brunch hosted by Kevin Reynard, Chair of Board of Governors and Robin Macpherson, Head of College before joining the wider RGC community for the parade The centrepiece of Tartan Week saw over 100 members of the RGC community march proudly through the streets of Manhattan. Pupils, staff, and alumni lined up along Sixth Avenue, celebrating Scottish heritage and the Gordonian community on an international stage.

Providing a fantastic opportunity to unwind after the parade, pupils, families, staff and alumni enjoyed an e-sports session at T-Squared Social, hosted by Dougal Grimes, Class of ‘00, and Chris Cusiter, Class of ‘00. It was the perfect end to a busy day.

Celebrating talent and strength of the Gordonian network
A defining feature of the weekend was the continued strength of the Gordonian community in North America. Over 50 former pupils travelled from across the United States and beyond to support the pupils, taking part in alumni events throughout the weekend. These gatherings offered mentorship, networking opportunities, and a chance for alumni to assist pupils exploring future study or career pathways abroad.

The 2026 Tartan Week visit demonstrated the dedication and talent of RGC pupils, as well as the support of staff, families, and the wider Gordonian community. The Pipe Band and Highland Dancers not only impressed with their musical and performance excellence but also embodied the values of teamwork, resilience, and pride that define life at RGC.

Robin Macpherson, Head of College, said: “It has been fantastic to return to New York with our pupils for Tartan Week. Seeing them perform with such confidence and pride on an international stage is incredibly rewarding. The strength of the Gordonian community in North America is remarkable, and this experience has further strengthened those connections while creating lasting opportunities for our pupils.”

Jake (S6), Pipe Sergeant, shared: “From a piper’s perspective, performing in New York's tartan day parade was an incredible experience. The atmosphere was amazing marching down 5th avenue through crowds of people. Having time to also visit New York’s best sites like Central Park, Brooklyn bridge and time square was an unforgettable experience. Getting to visit Nasdaq whilst performing for alumni was a once in a lifetime event. This opportunity was incredible and we won’t forget it.”

Isla (S6), Dance Captain, commented: “New York Tartan Week 2026 was an incredible experience. All the dancers loved performing across the city, from Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park to dancing down 6th Avenue alongside the Pipe Band. It was truly a unique opportunity that none of us will ever forget!”

Manuel (S5), Drum Major, highlighted: “New York was one of my favourite trips - the city was amazing. The sightseeing days were really cool and I loved exploring the city in our free time. The trip was organised in a way that we weren’t in a rush so it was quite relaxing and a good break before exams. The Tartan Parade, the main event, was an incredible experience. The number of people who showed up to support us was outstanding. One of the best experiences was by far performing the fanfare at T-Squared Social. The venue was amazing and performing for ex-pupils, a lot of which were quite famous, was great fun.”

Niamh (S6), Dance Captain, said: “Getting the opportunity to perform in Times Square was unreal. The size of the crowd that gathered to watch was amazing and it was a perfect end to our day of performances around New York City, as well as preparing us all for the main parade performance.”

Laura Presslie, Director of Advancement, added: “The support from our global alumni community and event sponsors has been outstanding. This weekend has showcased the exceptional talent of our pupils and highlighted the important role our alumni network plays in supporting the College’s ambitions.”

Martin Gilbert, Class of ‘73, shared: “It is immensely encouraging to see RGC pupils represent the College with such distinction on an international stage. Their performances showcase both talent and the values at the heart of the school. The strength of the global Gordonian network is clear, with alumni supporting pupils and broadening their horizons. Experiences like this create lasting connections and a source of great pride for the RGC community.”

Will Rhind, Class of ‘96, commented: “It was a truly special weekend, and one I won’t forget in a hurry. Hosting Drinks in the City at Nasdaq in Times Square gave everyone a memorable New York experience, while seeing the pipe band and dancers perform at Nasdaq and in the Tartan Day Parade was quite extraordinary Announcing the Americas Gordonian Bursary at Tartan Weekend, has been a particular highlight, and something I am very proud to support. I hope this new bursary fund becomes a lasting cornerstone of how the US RGC alumni community continues to give back to the College in the years ahead.”

Thank you to all our event sponsors, GraniteShares, Walkers Shortbread Inc, Alexander Murray & Co, EightyTwo, McCalls Highlandwear and The Glenturret, who have provided invaluable support that enriches the experience for both our pupils and alumni. Also to David Dalgarno, Class of ‘76. for sponsoring the professional photographer and all alumni who provided high quality prizes for our e-sports session. 

The 2026 Tartan Week experience once again showcased the global reach of Robert Gordon’s College and the strong sense of community, bringing together pupils, staff, families, and alumni and connecting Gordonians across the world creating life-long memories and friendships.