Police issue 'do not gather' warning ahead of Celtic title party and Orange Walk in Glasgow

Police Scotland has issued a warning as large crowds are expected to gather in Glasgow city centre this weekend.

Officers say a “proportionate” policing plan is in place as thousands are expected to celebrate Celtic’s title success in the Merchant City and Trongate areas.

Assistant chief constable Mark Sutherland asked people not to gather in large groups.

Celtic play St Mirren on Saturday afternoon and will be presented with the Scottish Premiership trophy, which in previous years has been followed by crowds descending on the city centre.

Four police officers were injured and 19 arrests were made for “various offences” during disorder in the city on May 19, 2024.

🏆 SPFL Trophy Day 🏆
We want supporters of every team in Glasgow to be able to celebrate their successes but ask fans – including those visiting the city – to please avoid disruptive mass gatherings at Merchant City / Trongate and other public places. (1/4) pic.twitter.com/FZQTMcD9Iw
— Glasgow City Council (@GlasgowCC) May 15, 2025

Meanwhile, the Glasgow County Grand Lodge Orange Walk is also expected to take place on Saturday.

A number of roads are due to be closed, with thousands of people marching through the city.

Police are warning those gathering to “ensure their behaviour does not negatively impact businesses or those looking to enjoy our city”.

Assistant chief constable Sutherland said: “We are aware of concerns regarding events in Glasgow on Saturday, May 17 with large crowds expected to gather.

“I’d like to reassure the public we are working closely with our partners at Glasgow City Council to minimise disruption to the wider community and a proportionate policing plan is in place, with a focus on public safety.

“We respect the right to public assembly, however it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure their behaviour does not negatively impact businesses or those looking to enjoy our city.

“Please do not gather in large groups and be respectful of those around you.

“If you are planning to visit Glasgow City Centre on Saturday, it will be much busier than normal.

“There is also likely to be increased usage of public transport, so make travel arrangements in advance.”

Glasgow City Council said in a statement: “We want supporters of every team in Glasgow to be able to celebrate their successes but ask fans – including those visiting the city – to please avoid disruptive mass gatherings at Merchant City / Trongate and other public places.

“These events and others like them have consistently led to disorder – causing significant disruption for the local community and businesses.

“Damage to buildings and infrastructure robs the public purse of hundreds of thousands of pounds that would otherwise be spent on the essential services we all rely on.

“Enjoy trophy day, but respect the city and your neighbours. Do not attend unsafe and disruptive gatherings in public places like Merchant City / Trongate.”