International Bagpipe Day

International Bagpipe Day is an international holiday dedicated to the bagpipe. Most people associate this musical instrument with Scotland. That said, there have been similar instruments in many countries around the world and in different eras. The holiday is celebrated annually on March 10.

How to celebrate

A bagpipe is a wind instrument with a rather complex structure. It consists of several elements that allow for its unique sound. The most primitive analogues were known as far back as the Ancient Age – in Rome and Egypt.

Modern examples of bagpipes began to appear in the Middle Ages. They were most common in Scotland. The bagpipe is today a true symbol of this country. The creation of International Bagpipe Day came from a corresponding initiative of the International Pipes Organization. The first celebration took place in 2012.

Bagpipes have a magical, enveloping sound. The most notable part of the bagpipe is the fur or leather bag connected to an inflatable mechanism that allows air to be pumped into the bag. By using several pipes when playing and skillfully combining them, an amazing sound is born.

Interesting facts

• Military regiments in Scotland almost always went to battle to the sound of bagpipes.
• Queen Elizabeth has her own special alarm clock – a whole chorus of pipers who wake the queen from her sleep by their playing.
• The sound range of the bagpipes is quite large – it varies from 1 to 2 octaves.

How to celebrate

Visit Scotland on International Bagpipe Day to enjoy the traditional sound of bagpipes. You can attend various training courses to learn the basic skills of playing this unusual instrument. Learn more about the structure and workings of the bagpipes.

Spread the word on social media. Ask other users if they like the sound of the bagpipes and when they first heard them live.

When is International Bagpipe Day celebrated in 2024?

International Bagpipe Day is observed on March 10 each year.

Observations