Robert Burns Supper
Since its inception in 2011, this cherished event has become a highlight on our calendar, celebrating the life and works of the renowned Scottish Poet Laureate, Robert Burns.
Born on January 25, 1759, Burns is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland and is celebrated globally on this special night. The tradition of commemorating Robert Burns, known as Burns Night, typically involves a festive gathering featuring poetry readings, Scottish music, and, of course, the iconic Burns Supper. It's a time-honored occasion that brings people together to appreciate the rich cultural heritage Burns left behind.
We invite you to explore the history, significance, and the joyous moments from our Lodge's unique and lively Robert Burns Night celebrations over the years. Join us in the spirit of camaraderie as we pay homage to the immortal bard and enjoy an evening filled with warmth, friendship, and the spirit of Scotland.
What to Expect
A Burns Supper is a spirited and culturally rich event that unfolds with a unique blend of tradition, poetry, and camaraderie. Guests can anticipate a warm welcome as bagpipes fill the air, marking the entrance of the haggis in a ceremonial procession.
The ensuing highlight is the "Address to a Haggis," where Robert Burns' iconic poem is passionately recited before the haggis is theatrically sliced open. Laughter ensues with the "Toast to the Lassies" and its witty response, fostering a light-hearted appreciation for the women present. The evening also features the solemn "Immortal Memory," a tribute to Burns' life and literary legacy.
Throughout the night, the air resonates with the lyrical verses of Burns' poems, accompanied by the soulful notes of Celtic music and possibly traditional Scottish dances. As the evening progresses, toasts are raised, tales are shared, and the joyous ambiance crescendos with the iconic singing of "Auld Lang Syne," encapsulating the essence of friendship and community that defines this cherished celebration of Scottish culture.
Selkirk Grace
The Selkirk Grace is a traditional Scottish grace attributed to Robert Burns. Often recited at formal gatherings, especially during Burns Suppers, this grace is a brief yet eloquent expression of gratitude for the meal.
Named after the town of Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, where Burns supposedly delivered it at a dinner hosted by the Earl of Selkirk, the grace reflects Burns' appreciation for simple pleasures and camaraderie.
Its poetic language captures the essence of gratitude for the food before the community comes together for a shared celebration, embodying the spirit of togetherness and appreciation for life's blessings.
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Address to a Haggis
The "Address to a Haggis" is one of Robert Burns' most famous poems, often recited with gusto during Burns Suppers. This spirited ode is an integral part of the traditional celebration, where a haggis is presented and ceremoniously sliced open.
Burns' lively verses humorously extol the virtues of the haggis, a savory Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oatmeal, and spices, elevating it to a symbol of national pride. The recitation typically involves a bagpiper escorting the haggis into the room, and the poem culminates in the ceremonial cutting of the haggis.
The "Address to a Haggis" not only pays homage to this iconic Scottish dish but also showcases Burns' skill in capturing the spirit of celebration and camaraderie that defines Burns Night festivities.
Auld Lang Syne
"Auld Lang Syne," penned by the renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns, is a poignant and universally recognized song often sung to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new.
Translated as "old long since" or "days gone by," the song is a reflective meditation on friendship and the passage of time. Its enduring popularity is particularly evident during New Year's Eve celebrations worldwide, where people join hands, often with a sense of nostalgia, to sing the familiar melody.
As the lyrics evoke memories of shared experiences and the enduring bonds of camaraderie, "Auld Lang Syne" has become a powerful and emotive tradition, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life, the importance of cherishing moments, and the hope for continued connections in the future.
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