Wiki Category: Customs and Traditions

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Customs and Traditions

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The guidelines below are suggested only and should be tailored by each association BEFORE being
adopted.

Recommended Guidelines

Raiding items between tables encourages fellowship and the growth of relationships between them, and it must always occur in the spirit of brotherhood.

The raiding Table can only raid one piece of regalia. The following items are un-raidable:

    • The President’s / Chairman’s Jewel,
    • Gavel,
    • Club Charter,
    • Items of excessive value
    • Items locked or stored in personal bags, suitcases or something similar; or
    • Items of a sensitive nature
    • Any item that is personal nature such as a medal pinned in a jacket or an honour medal

Only movable items are raidable, and should any items be screwed down, mounted or bolted in position, they will be deemed immovable and, therefore, unreadable.

Any raiding item becomes the raiding Table’s responsibility and must be covered by the raiding Table’s insurance. Should the raided item be damaged, lost, or stolen while in the Table’s possession, the regalia must be repaired, replaced, or paid for by the raiding Table. If an item value is not established, the Association’s President will have sole discretion regarding the value to be paid for the ’replacement’ of the regalia.

Should an item be raided, the raiding table needs to notify the raided Table members immediately for “release”. Should the raided Table not “release” the item, the Association Secretary must be informed as to what has been raided by no later than 3 (three) days after the raid. The Association Secretary will keep a register of all items raided. Once the raided item is collected, the Table collecting its raided item must notify the Association Secretary that the item has been collected.

It is the responsibility of the raided Table to raid the raiding Table to reclaim their regalia. Any suitably authorised members in a quorum of the Table can reclaim this. Any other Table cannot raid raided items from within the membership of Round Table.

Any raided items raided more than three months prior and not reclaimed before the Association AGM shall be handed over to the raided table at the Association AGM. If the Table does not return raided items, as set out above, or does not make sufficient effort to reclaim its regalia, it will be considered in contravention of the spirit of raiding.

A suitable fine or forfeit. will be administered to the offending table at the sole discretion of the Association President. This punishment should be light-hearted in nature and should be given at the Association AGM.

Round Table Day

Round Table Day is an annual traditional celebration observed by Round Table members worldwide to honor the founding principles and history of the organization. It is typically celebrated on or around March 14, marking the official launch of the first Round Table club, Round Table No. 1 Norwich, in 1927.

What Happens on Round Table Day?

    • Commemorative Events – Members reflect on the organization’s history and achievements.
    • Service Activities – Clubs often engage in charity work, community projects, and fundraising efforts.
    • Fellowship Gatherings – Local, national, and international meetings strengthen bonds among members.
    • Awareness Campaigns – The day is used to promote the values of “Adopt – Adapt – Improve”, inspiring young professionals to join.

Why is Round Table Day Important?

    • It celebrates Louis Marchesi’s vision of a club for young businesspeople focused on community service and personal growth.
    • It reinforces the global impact of Round Table, which now spans dozens of countries.
    • It encourages youth participation in leadership, networking, and philanthropy.

Association Celebrations:

Round Table Great Britain & Ireland

    • Historic Gatherings – Some clubs visit Norwich, where the first Round Table was founded, to pay tribute to Louis Marchesi.
    • Charity Challenges – Fundraising through marathons, auctions, and “Tablers on Tour” events.
    • National Fellowship Meetings – Tablers across the UK and Ireland meet for a special Round Table toast and networking.

Round Table Germany

    • “Service Day” Projects – Members engage in large-scale social impact initiatives, such as supporting homeless shelters and children’s hospitals.
    • RT Symbol Displays – Some clubs set up Round Table banners and exhibits in city centers to raise awareness.
    • “RT Stammtisch” Gatherings – Traditional German-style meetups at pubs or event halls for speeches, drinks, and networking.

Round Table The Netherlands

    • Mass Fundraising Events – Many clubs hold their biggest annual fundraisers on Round Table Day, including charity auctions and bike rides.
    • Adopt-A-Charity – Local tables pick a cause for the year and kick off their support with a special donation or volunteer drive.
    • “Orange Table” Tribute – Inspired by the Dutch national color, members wear orange-themed attire in honor of Round Table’s impact.

Round Table Suomi Finland

    • Winter Charity Drives – Due to Finland’s cold March weather, many clubs distribute warm clothing, food, and aid to those in need.
    • Ice Dips for Charity – Brave Tablers take a plunge into freezing lakes to raise funds for local charities!
    • Tabler Feasts – Traditional Finnish-style dinners with speeches, often featuring smoked fish, rye bread, and local delicacies.

Round Table Denmark

    • Round Table Flags – Some Danish cities raise RT banners in public places to spread awareness.
    • Leadership Talks – Panels featuring business and community leaders to inspire young professionals.
    • “Hygge” Celebrations – Many clubs host casual, cozy gatherings with Danish-style socializing over drinks and food.

Round Table India

    • Massive Charity Projects – India’s RT clubs use Round Table Day for some of their biggest social initiatives, such as:
      • Building schools and infrastructure for underprivileged communities.
      • Blood donation and health check-up camps.
      • Food and book distribution drives.
    • Tabler Processions & Public Awareness Rallies – Members take to the streets in large groups, waving RT flags and promoting community service.

Round Table Southern Africa

    • Adventure Fundraising – Many South African clubs organize hiking, skydiving, and extreme sports challenges for charity.
    • Round Table Braai (BBQ) Gatherings – A true South African celebration isn’t complete without a braai, where Tablers enjoy good food and fellowship.
    • Youth Mentorship & Business Talks – Members visit schools and universities to encourage leadership and entrepreneurship among young people.

Round Table Belgium

    • Gala Dinners & Charity Balls – Many clubs organize black-tie events to raise funds and celebrate their contributions.
    • Heritage Talks – Members share stories from Round Table’s past, reinforcing the legacy of Louis Marchesi.
    • European Networking – Since Belgium is central to many RT international connections, clubs often host multi-country meetups.

Round Table France

    • Wine & Dine Fundraisers – Clubs use Round Table Day to host wine tastings and fine dining events for charity.
    • Community Clean-up Campaigns – Tablers organize volunteer drives to clean parks, beaches, and public spaces.
    • Torchlight Processions – Some regions hold evening walks with torches to symbolize the guiding light of Round Table’s values.

Round Table Norway

    • Mountain Hikes for Charity – Many clubs embark on charity treks in Norway’s breathtaking landscapes.
    • Fjord-Side Gatherings – Some meetings take place in coastal areas to reflect on the club’s history and future.
    • RT History Exhibits – Museums and community centers sometimes feature displays on Round Table’s legacy.

Other International Traditions

Sergeant at Arms

Sergeant about to pounce

The Sergeant at Arms or Master at Arms, is a key role within the organization, typically responsible for maintaining order and ensuring that meetings run smoothly and in accordance with traditions. The role may include the following duties:

    • Maintaining Meeting Discipline: Ensuring that discussions remain orderly and that all members follow established protocols.
    • Timekeeping: Managing the timing of speeches, discussions, and agenda items.
    • Fines and Fun Activities: Often, the Sergeant at Arms has a lighthearted role in imposing humorous fines or penalties for minor breaches of etiquette, contributing to the camaraderie and enjoyment of meetings.
    • Logistics and Security: Assisting with the setup of meeting venues and ensuring that everything is in place for smooth operations.
    • Enforcing Traditions: Upholding the customs, values, and ceremonial aspects of Round Table meetings.

The Sergeant at Arms is often seen as the enforcer of rules while also playing a key role in fostering a friendly and engaging atmosphere within the club or during general meetings.

Association specific customs

Regalia

Long standing Round Table tradition, regalia are ceremonial items, insignia, and symbols worn or used by members, particularly office bearers, to represent their position, achievements, and the traditions of the organization. Regalia serves both a symbolic and historical purpose, reinforcing the sense of identity, continuity, and honor within the fraternity.

Typical Regalia

    1. Chains of Office – Worn by Chairmen, Presidents, and senior officials, featuring engraved nameplates of past holders and a central medallion with the Round Table rondel.
    2. Breast Jewels – Medals or badges awarded to members for specific roles (e.g., Chairman, Treasurer) or achievements (e.g., long service awards).
    3. Honor Medals – Specially awarded medals, such as the RTI Honor Medal, given for outstanding contributions to Round Table and the community.

Other Regalia

Some types of regalia are less common, or have fallen out of fashion.

    1. Sashes & Ribbons – Occasionally used for ceremonial purposes, representing rank, office, or recognition.
    2. Collarettes – A ribbon worn around the neck, often carrying a medallion or jewel to indicate rank or honor.