Ceilidh party
A live ceilidh band and caller lead everyone through Scottish country dances, with a hearty supper and a dram.
- Guests
- 30-120 guests
- Party length
- 4-5 hours
- Prep time
- Booking plus half a day
- Ages
- All ages
What it is
A ceilidh is a Scottish (and Irish) social dance night with a live band and a caller who teaches every dance as you go. No experience needed - it’s energetic, funny and gets every generation on the floor. A classic for Hogmanay and weddings.
Plan ahead
- Three to six months before: book a ceilidh band with a caller and a hall with a large wooden floor.
- One month before: plan supper (hot and hearty).
- One week before: add tartan touches and confirm timings with the band.
Popular dances
- Gay Gordons: a gentle couples’ walk-and-twirl to start.
- Dashing White Sergeant: groups of three dancing around the room.
- Strip the Willow: a fast, spinning line dance - the highlight.
- Canadian Barn Dance: an easy couples’ dance.
Food and drink
- Stovies, haggis with neeps and tatties (with vegetarian haggis), or a hot buffet
- Shortbread and cranachan
- A dram of whisky, beer, and plenty of water
Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Ask the caller to start easy and build up.
- On New Year’s Eve, cross arms and join hands for Auld Lang Syne.
On the day
- Arrival (30 min): drinks and tartan touches.
- First set (45 min): the caller teaches easy dances like the Gay Gordons.
- Supper (45 min): stovies or haggis, neeps and tatties.
- Second set (60 min): faster dances like Strip the Willow.
- Bells at midnight (New Year's Eve): Auld Lang Syne in a circle.
Shopping list
tartan party decorations
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tartan sash
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whisky glasses
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scottish flag bunting
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shortbread tin
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first footing coal gift
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