County plans celebration for Robbie Burns Day

Pictou County is gearing up to celebrate its Scottish heritage on Robbie Burns Day, Jan. 25.

The day falls on Robbie Burns’ 261st birthday and the event is hosted by Na Gaisgich Pipes and Drums. Robert Burns is a famous poet and farmer who was born in 1759. He lived in the west area of Lowland of Scotland, called Ayr. His fame stems from his sometimes earthy, but brilliant, poetry written in both English and Scottish language, including the popular “Address to a Haggis” and “Auld Lang Syne.”

In Pictou County, Burns’ dinners became not only a celebration of Scotland’s national Bard but of other aspects of Scottish culture; Scottish music, fiddles, bagpipes, single malt scotch, and the presence and wearing of tartans.

This year’s event is being held once again at Summer Street Industries. A reception will be held at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m. with a dance to follow.

Shirley Smith said the event traditionally sells out, but they will guarantee tickets until Jan. 15.

Tickets can be purchased from any Na Gaisgich members, or by calling 902-301-6592. Those wishing to only attend the dance can do so for $10.

Smith said it’s been amazing how much the Robbie Burns celebration has grown. When people first started celebrating in Pictou County, there were only about a dozen people. Not they regularly have around 200.

Smith said it’s truly become a celebration of Pictou County’s Scottish heritage.

She’s personally been involved the last eight years she’s been part of the pipes and drum band, which will be performing at this year’s event.

As in the past, there will be traditional haggis which is purchased in Nova Scotia.