Haggis Hooley kicks off Burns celebrations
Burns season is well and truly under way – and the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum has a packed calendar of events to celebrate the bard’s birthday.
Things get under way this Friday with the Haggis Hoolie, a family friendly nod to a Burns Supper.
Music comes from The Borland Ceilidh Band and a variety of talented local musicians, before the band “put life and mettle” in your heels as the dancing takes centre stage.
Admission to the Haggis Hooley costs £ 19 for adults, £ 17 for concessions and £ 15 for children. The night gets under way at 7.30pm, and booking is essential.
On the Bard’s Birthday, January 25, volunteers will read, sing and recite their favourite piece of Burns’ work in a day of celebration.
The day brings an opportunity to bring along your own choice and read it in the cottage where he was born on the day of his birth. This event is free, and begins at 3pm. Next up is the Friends of Robert Burns Birthplace Museum’s special fundraising supper on the evening of Wednesday, January 25.
Toasting the world- famous bard, the event promises to be an exclusive and unforgettable evening with piper, toasts, recitations, music and speeches.
For more information on the Burns Supper call 01292 443700.
One of the highlights of the month comes on Saturday, January 28 with Burns Alicht.
The unique, sparkling birthplace tour begins at Burns Cottage before heading along the illuminated Poet’s Path celebrating Burns landscape.
It crosses the bridge, preparing visitors to be lured to the spooky Auld Kirk Graveyard - where witches may await.
The tour then heads to historic Brig o’Doon, where Tam makes haste, before continuing on to the museum through the red, red rose path.
Tours are timed between 6pm and 9.30pm on the day and booking is adviseable. Admission costs £ 7.50 or £ 5 concessions.
Finally, the Burns Big Birthday Bash on Sunday, January 29 brings the curtain down on the festivities.
For the first time in more than 100 years, the front door of Burns Cottage will be open in celebration of his birthday. Events are planned throughout the day, including Burns for Bairns in the Education Pavillion, craft demonstrations inside the cottage and live traditional music in the cottage and museum.
The World Haggis Hurling Championship takes place between 1 and 3pm, with the Junkman’s Choir performing at 1.30pm and 3pm. Shall Brothers Be, a Burns concert presented by the Alloway Burns Club and local folk group Luath takes place in Alloway Parish Church between 2pm and 3.30pm.
Booking is not required for the birthday bash. Events get under way from 1pm. For more information on any of the events, and to book for ticketed events, visit www. burnsmuseum. org. uk or call 01292 443700.