Famous poet Robert Burns (commonly known as “Robbie”) is one of the most highly respected poets of the Scottish nation. His life and legacy are celebrated worldwide through the annual Robbie Burns night which is held on his birthday.
This customary event has been celebrated since the 1800s.
Burns was born in the village of Alloway, Ayr on Jan. 25, 1759. His father realized how important it was to have a good education at a young age, so he hired a local teacher for his son. It was then that Robbie discovered his impeccable talent for writing. Burns wrote his first poem at the age of 15. He is recognized for his notable works:
– Auld Lang Syne;
– To a Mouse;
– Scott’s Wha Hae; and
– Aye Fond Kiss.
The annual Robbie Burns Night is a small taste of the legacy that Burns left. It features authentic Scottish food, provided by the Alma Optimists, beautiful and unique sounds of live entertainment by the mini Fergus Pipe Band and a performance by the Blue Bonnet Lassies School of Highland Dance.
Over the past few years John K. Campbell has addressed the haggis and will be presenting his emotional and cinematic rendition again this year.
Robbie Burns Night is on Jan. 25. The night will be held at a new location, the Aboyne Hall of the Wellington County Museum at 5:30pm.
Tickets are $35 and are available online at www.fergusscottishfestival.com or by calling the office at 519-787-0099.
Organizers also encourage everyone to attend the 2014 Fergus Scottish Festival from Aug.8 to 10.
