Scots are to get a public holiday to mark the men’s national team playing in its first World Cup since 1998.
Scotland will face Haiti in Boston at 02:00 GMT on Sunday 14 June, before taking on Morocco and Brazil in their remaining group fixtures in the United States.
First Minister John Swinney has proposed that 15 June is designated as a national bank holiday.
The proposal will be formally confirmed once it has been rubber-stamped by the King.
Speaking at an event in Glasgow, Swinney said: “The whole nation will come to a standstill in June – even more so in July once we’ve seen off Brazil and progressed to the knockout stages.
“This is a moment 28 years in the waiting – and I want as many people as possible to share the occasion.”
He added: “That will mean that supporters across the country can watch our men’s team in their first World Cup match for almost 30 years, and share in the chance for Scotland to be on the world stage, to attract business development, to create tourism and hospitality interest within the country and to make deep and lasting cultural and sporting connections.”
Scotland is able to set distinct bank holidays from the rest of the UK.
A day can be appointed as a bank holiday in Scotland by royal proclamation.
The first minister is able to advise the Privy Council – an advisory board to the monarch – on proclamations for Scotland, which are formally signed off by the King.
Scotland face Morocco in Boston on 19 June, and Brazil in Miami on 24 June. Both games kick off at 23:00 GMT.
Swinney has previously said that the government would work with local authorities on extending pub opening hours during the World Cup.
