On Jan. 26 Robert Burns enthusiasts will gather to celebrate the life, works, and spirit of Scotland’s famous bard at the Royal Canadian Legion in Fergus.
The Clans will gather at 5:30pm for refreshments and chin-wagging and festivities will begin promptly at 6:30pm with a Haggis ceremony that involves piping in the haggis in true Scottish style, and the ceremonial address, To A Haggis, by John K. Campbell.
A roast beef dinner will follow and the more adventurous can savour some haggis. The after dinner program, hosted by Don Dewar, features entertainment by Kettle’s On, the Fergus Pipe Band, the Grand Celtic Pipe Band, and the MacDonald School of Scottish Arts Dancers.
To round out the night, work off your dinner as Siobhan Harrop leads participants through the steps of popular Scottish Country dances like the Gay Gordon’s and the Dashing White Sergeant, accompanied by the music of Whirlygig.
Presented for the sixth year by the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games and the Fergus and Grand Celtic Pipe Bands, and sponsored by Meridian Credit Union, the evening’s proceeds will help those exceptional Pipe Bands offset their operating expenses such as competition fees, drum heads, bagpipe reeds, and uniforms.
Tickets are available from the Fergus Scottish Festival office at 398 St. Andrew Street West, Fergus for $37.50. Visa, Mastercard, cheques, and cash are accepted.
This year, people can reserve a table for parties of eight or ten. Tickets are also available at The Wee Scottish Shop & More in Fergus and at the Chamber of Commerce office or at www.fergusscottishfestival.com.
For more information on A Night With Burns, contact the Festival office at 519-787-0099 or visit the website.
