The Tartan Army has transformed Boston into a sea of kilts, bagpipes, and Scottish songs as thousands of Scotland supporters embrace their nation's long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup.
From filling bars across the city to belting out renditions of Flower of Scotland at iconic sporting venues, Scotland's travelling fans have become one of the standout stories of the tournament, earning admiration from locals while creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Scotland supporters had waited nearly three decades for another World Cup appearance, and the thousands who made the journey to the United States are making the most of the occasion.
"Oh my God, they're amazing. I have enjoyed so much watching them enjoy the city," Boston resident Cara DiBenedetto told AFP.
"It's really renewed my love of Boston because I'm seeing them appreciate things that I take for granted."
An estimated 40,000 to 50,000 Scottish fans descended on Massachusetts for Scotland's opening Group C clash against Haiti, with another wave expected ahead of Friday's crucial meeting with Morocco.
The Tartan Army was a familiar sight at major international tournaments throughout the late 20th century, but Scotland had not qualified for a World Cup since 1998. That lengthy absence only strengthened supporters' determination to travel across the Atlantic, despite the significant costs involved.
"Not at all. If anything, that's the sort of thing I'll lie to my wife about," joked Edinburgh native Jamie Grewar, who attended the Haiti match with friends after spending around $500 per ticket, excluding travel and accommodation expenses.
Scottish fans were impossible to miss throughout New York City and Boston, with replica shirts and kilts visible across both cities in the build-up to Scotland's opening game.
The supporters were rewarded when Steve Clarke's side secured a 1-0 victory over Haiti thanks to a John McGinn goal at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. Scotland fans made up the majority of the 64,000 crowd, creating a home-like atmosphere.
"I didn't realise until we stepped onto the pitch just how many Scottish people were there," midfielder Lewis Ferguson said.
"Our support is never in doubt. They will travel everywhere, they always have and always will."
Celebrations continued long after the final whistle. According to NBC News, one Boston bar reportedly ran out of local lager after Scottish fans drank its supplies dry over the weekend.
"They're great people. They showed us nothing but respect," said Black Rose bartender Chris Wildt.
"They're a little bigger drinkers than we thought, but we appreciate it."
The festivities rolled on Sunday when thousands of Scotland supporters marched to Fenway Park to watch the Boston Red Sox face the Texas Rangers in Major League Baseball.
Videos shared across social media showed fans turning the famous ballpark into a Scottish party, singing classics such as I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers and football favourite Super John McGinn.
While the Tartan Army has captured headlines, Scotland's players are focused on making history on the pitch.
Despite appearing in nine World Cups, Scotland has never progressed beyond the group stage. Their victory over Haiti was only the nation's fifth win in 24 World Cup matches and could prove vital in a challenging group.
Next up is Morocco, ranked seventh in the world and semifinalists at the 2022 World Cup. Scotland will then face five-time world champions Brazil in their final Group C fixture.
The match against Brazil will require supporters to swap Boston for Miami, where Florida's heat may prove an additional challenge for fans wearing traditional kilts.
Captain Andy Robertson understands the significance of the moment for supporters who have waited decades for Scotland's return to football's biggest stage.
"We know we have the best fan base in the world. We know they follow us everywhere and how long they have waited for this moment," Robertson said.
"We know how excited they are, and it's up to us to try to give them a good time."
