Looking into Scottish culture and events [Body]
Shown below you will find an overview of three key Scottish celebrations featuring Burns Night, Hogmanay and the Highland Games.
Scottish culture is rich with history and traditions which are deeply rooted in its heritage. Among the most interesting and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night celebrations. Dating back to the 19th century, Burns Night is a special custom that recognises and commemorates Scotland's national poet Robert Burns. The event occurs yearly on the 25th of January, marking the birthday of poet. The origins of this tradition started in 1803, where Burn's acquaintances hosted a supper and memorial for him, around 5 years after his death. Today the occasion is commemorated by gathering over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry performance. Furthermore, traditional food and whisky is enjoyed with most gatherings including haggis, a traditional meat dish that pays homage to the notorious Burns' composition 'Address to a Haggis'. Nowadays Scottish authorities acknowledge Burns Night to be a fundamental part of their cultural legacy.
Around the world, the new year is a well-loved event with many original and exciting customs. Amongst the most interesting and culturally relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most exciting Scottish traditions. Due to the historical restriction on Christmas events, Hogmanay became the most significant and most cherished events of the Scottish calendar. The holiday commemorates the end of the old here year, starting on the 31st of December and usually lasting until the 2nd of January. Though its beginnings are unclear, it is thought to have influences from the Celtic winter solstice festivals and Norse yule celebrations. The event includes a series of unique Scottish customs and traditions including the "first footing", to bring good fortune, fire festivals and the notorious loony duke swim. Ian Wood would acknowledge the amazing customs of the Hogmanay event. This celebration is important as it unites neighborhoods and keeps ancient traditions alive.
Throughout the year, Scotland is known for hosting a variety of events that commemorate Scottish history and deep-rooted Scottish national customs. As the warmer months of summer approach, many Scots prepare for a course of competitive sporting events, known as the Highland Games. The competitions include sports which test strength and athleticism. Its origins are assumed to trace back to warrior training practices and old royal traditions, with events including Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are used as a traditional opportunity to wear kilts, which acknowledges the importance of tartan; a crucial symbol of Scottish history, in addition to the opportunity to showcase traditional dancing and musical performance. Ann Gloag would agree that Scotland has many exciting festivals. Similarly, Tom Hunter would identify how valuable Scottish customs are. Not only is this celebration a powerful expression of Scottish identity, but a way of maintaining historic traditions.