What to Expect at St Andrews' Biggest Annual Events

St Andrews may be a small town, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to events and festivals. From ancient university traditions to world-class sporting events, there is always something happening. Here is your guide to the major events in the St Andrews calendar — and crucially, how to navigate transport during these busy periods.

The Open Championship

When it comes to St Andrews: The Open Championship at the Old Course is the biggest event on the calendar. When the Open returns to St Andrews (as it does approximately every five years), the town is transformed. Over 250,000 spectators attend across the week, making it one of the largest sporting events in the UK.

What to expect:

• Roads around the Old Course and Links area are closed or heavily restricted
• Parking is virtually impossible in the town centre
• Hotels, B&Bs, and rental properties are fully booked months — sometimes years — in advance
• The atmosphere is electric, with a tented village, food stalls, and entertainment alongside the championship itself

Transport tip: Pre-book your taxi well in advance — ideally as soon as the dates are confirmed. During Open week, our drivers know every alternative route and can navigate the road closures efficiently. We offer dedicated shuttle services from major hotels and from designated pickup points.

The Lammas Market

Held every August on the second Monday and Tuesday of the month, the Lammas Market is the oldest surviving medieval street fair in Scotland, with origins dating back to at least the 12th century. The market fills Market Street and South Street with traditional funfair rides, food stalls, craft vendors, and games.

For residents and visitors alike, the Lammas Market is a highlight of the summer. However, it does mean significant road closures in the town centre for the duration of the event:

• Market Street is completely closed to traffic
• South Street is partially closed or restricted
• Alternative routes through the town are very congested

Transport tip: Allow extra travel time if you are heading to or through St Andrews during the Lammas Market. Book taxis in advance for evening pickups as demand is very high.

The Kate Kennedy Pageant

The Kate Kennedy Procession is one of the university's oldest and most colourful traditions, dating back to the 15th century. Held on a Saturday in April, the procession sees students dressed as historical figures parade through the streets accompanied by a horse-drawn carriage. The event celebrates the university's history and is a beloved part of the student calendar.

The procession route passes through the main town streets, causing temporary closures. It is a wonderful spectacle for visitors, with the students taking their roles very seriously.

Raisin Weekend

Raisin Weekend is the university's annual celebration of the academic family system, where first-year students (known as academic "children") are hosted by their academic "parents." The weekend culminates on Raisin Monday with a massive foam fight in St Salvator's Quad, followed by students wandering through town in outrageous fancy dress costumes carrying bizarre objects assigned by their academic parents.

For visitors, Raisin Monday is an unforgettable sight. For drivers, it means the streets are full of fancy-dressed students, so patience and good humour are required. Our drivers are well accustomed to navigating Raisin Monday and will get you where you need to go with a smile.

St Andrews Day — 30th November

Scotland's patron saint shares his name with the town, so naturally, St Andrews Day is celebrated with particular enthusiasm here. Events typically include ceilidh dancing, traditional music, Scottish food markets, and fireworks. Many restaurants and pubs offer special St Andrews Day menus featuring Scottish dishes.

The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship

This professional golf tournament, held each October, is played across three courses: the Old Course, Kingsbarns, and Carnoustie. It is a popular event because spectators can follow the action for free (no ticket required at the Old Course). The tournament brings a lively, social atmosphere and attracts celebrities and business figures who play alongside the professionals in the pro-am format.

Transport tip: The Dunhill Links is less disruptive than the Open but still brings increased traffic. Taxi transfers between the three courses are very popular during the event — book early.

General Tips for Event Weekends

• Book accommodation and transport well in advance — St Andrews is a small town, and capacity is limited
• Be flexible with pickup times — road closures may add a few minutes to journeys
• Our drivers have detailed knowledge of alternative routes during events
• For large groups attending events together, ask about our multi-vehicle coordination service
• Check event schedules and road closure notices on the Fife Council website before travelling

Whatever event brings you to St Andrews, Jet Taxi is here to make your travel seamless. Call us on 07862 006604 to pre-book your event transport.