The partnership grew out of a summer visit by thousands of Scottish soccer fans, many of whom traveled to Providence for the World Cup. Gregor Cowan, a native of Ayr and founder of the Providence Tartan Army, said the connection was immediate.

"When we were over for the World Cup, it was just fell in love with Providence, to be honest," Cowan said. He led a parade through the city that drew thousands of Scots.

"We just thought it was something that we couldn't just let die," he said. The effort became known as the Providence Friendship Initiative.

Mayor Brett Smiley praised the visitors at a Tuesday press conference. "The Scots sort of captured our heart this summer. They were so much fun. They were such good neighbors, such good visitors," Smiley said.

The four-day celebration will feature Scottish-themed events at local bars, restaurants and pubs, according to Kristen Adamo, president and CEO of GoProvidence. Track 15 will host curling competitions and whiskey tastings, while G Pub and Hot Club will also hold events. Bagpipes are expected, and organizers hinted that traffic cones — a nod to a Scottish fan tradition — may make an appearance.

The official signing of the friendship pact is scheduled for November 30. Members of the Tartan Army, including Cowan, will return for the ceremony.

"It's going to be absolutely brilliant. I'm not looking forward to the jet lag, but...it's going to be a lot of fun," Cowan said. He confirmed the group will bring kilts and, when asked if they plan to "drive Providence dry," responded with a laugh: "Yeah, we're gonna try our best."

The weekend is part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between the two communities across the Atlantic. For more information, visit goprovidence.com/st-andrewsday.