Bahrain Caledonian Society (Awali) will be celebrating its 91st birthday with the annual St Andrew’s Ball promising an evening of Scottish tradition, music and dancing.
The much-anticipated occasion will bring together members of Bahrain’s Scottish community and those working across the causeway in Saudi Arabia, as well as distinguished guests and friends.
The evening will be hosted by Ewan Reekie BEM, the society’s chieftain, who will welcome guests on November 6 to one of the society’s most celebrated events of the year staged at the InterContinental Bahrain in Manama.
“St Andrew’s Day provides an opportunity for Scots around the world to celebrate their heritage, traditions and the values of friendship, generosity and community,” he said.
Scottish community in Bahrain members at a previous St Andrew’s Ball event
The St Andrew’s Ball honours the country’s patron saint recognised as a symbol of humility, courage and faith. According to legend, he was martyred on an X-shaped cross, which inspired the distinctive white diagonal cross on Scotland’s national flag, the Saltire.
A highlight of the Bahrain celebrations will be a lively traditional Scottish ceilidh, featuring the renowned Glencraig Band, travelling especially from Edinburgh to provide an authentic taste of Scotland.
Guests will be invited onto the dance floor to enjoy traditional Scottish dances, with the infectious rhythms of the ceilidh creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration.
“Whether experienced dancers or enthusiastic beginners, everyone will have an opportunity to participate in this cherished Scottish tradition,” added Chieftain Reekie.
Now marking its Heliodor anniversary, the Bahrain Caledonian Society remains an important part of the kingdom’s expatriate community, preserving Scotland’s rich cultural heritage while fostering friendships across nationalities and generations, as well as supporting local charities.
Community members dressed in traditional attire at a previous event
“The society’s continued presence in Bahrain reflects the longstanding bonds between Scotland and the kingdom, with its social and cultural gatherings providing opportunities for people from different backgrounds to come together,” said Chieftain Reekie.
“As the Bahrain Caledonian Society (Awali) celebrates more than nine decades of tradition, this year’s St Andrew’s Ball promises to be a memorable occasion, combining Scottish hospitality, music and dancing with the warmth and friendship for which Bahrain is renowned.
“It will be an evening celebrating Scotland’s heritage in the heart of Bahrain.”
n Tickets cost BD50. For more details call 39928228.
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