On a lively Wednesday afternoon in Boston, members of the Tartan Army—the devoted group of Scottish soccer supporters—gathered at Hennessy’s pub on Union Street to watch England face Croatia during the World Cup. Among them was Andy Lachlan, who sported a noticeable bruise near his eye, attributed not to any altercation but rather an accidental fall during a night out in nearby Rockport. Despite local rumors that the group had depleted the pub’s entire beer supply days earlier, the visitors had actually consumed all the lager, ale, and Guinness, leaving behind American IPAs.

Hennessy’s, situated between Boston’s City Hall and the North End, became a hub of exuberance, with fans donning kilts and singing classic Scottish anthems such as “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by the Proclaimers. The festive scene included locals from the financial district and suburban visitors mingling with Scots, capturing moments on their phones and expressing appreciation for the lively atmosphere the Tartan Army brought to the city. Owner Noelle Somers, who has managed Hennessy’s for two decades, expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the impending departure of the Scottish supporters would be a somber moment for Boston.

The Red Sox organization had anticipated the influx of Scottish fans since December, when ticket agent Karina Provost noted increased inquiries from Scotland. Recognizing the unique opportunity, the team branded their June 14 game a “Scottish Celebration,” incorporating Scottish culture and music into the experience. Senior director of ticket strategy and promotions Travis Pollio explained that even among those less inclined toward soccer, the energy and enthusiasm of the Tartan Army promised a positive impact on the ballpark atmosphere.

The weekend’s sporting events featured a significant milestone as Scotland secured their first World Cup victory in 36 years with a 1-0 win over Haiti on June 13, witnessed by thousands of Scottish fans who traveled from Boston to Foxborough. The following day, over 5,000 supporters marched through Boston’s streets and filled Fenway Park for the Red Sox game against the Texas Rangers. Despite the home team's ongoing struggles this season and a 6-4 loss, Fenway’s usual spectators were outshone by the vibrant Scottish crowd. The fans chanted along to both traditional Scottish tunes and modern hits like “Seven Nation Army,” creating an electric environment rarely seen in recent Red Sox outings.

The Tartan Army’s presence extended beyond Boston’s borders, with additional gatherings including a parade and a subsequent march in Providence, Rhode Island. Many attendees admitted they were unable to afford World Cup tickets—criticizing FIFA’s pricing—but still traveled extensively to celebrate their team and culture abroad. Christian Garden, one fan, highlighted the contrast between the affordability of local soccer games and international events.

Despite the Red Sox’s poor performance, Scottish visitors such as Alistair Stewart found value beyond the scoreboard. Stewart, who attended Fenway Park with his two sons, praised the spirit and camaraderie their group brought to the city. He even featured in a local television broadcast during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays, where a late-inning rally sparked by the Fenway DJ playing The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside” briefly lifted the home team’s fortunes, though it ultimately fell short.

Stewart, reflecting on the experience, said the Scots came to share their culture and embrace Boston’s heritage, leaving mutual goodwill in their wake. As the World Cup festivities wound down, the Tartan Army’s impact in Boston was felt not only in packed stadiums and lively pubs but in a broader celebration of community and sport.