Midwinter Festivity Honoring Robert Burns: A Traditional Scottish Event
22nd January 2020 | Celebrating the Scottish National Bard: Burns Night
On the 25th of January, the winter month of January transforms, becoming a celebration of life, culture, and poetry with Burns Night. This festive occasion provides an opportunity for gathering with friends, indulging in Scottish customs, and reciting the beautiful verses of Scotland's national bard, Robert Burns.
Born into humble beginnings on a farm, Burns worked as a ploughman before finding solace in his writing. His poetry, inspired by nature, traditional Scottish culture, and the simple pleasures of life, have earned him a place as a symbol of the nation.
This Burns Night, immerse yourself in the spirit of the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands with a selection of products from local makers.
Wild Venison Charcuterie Feast by Great Glen CharcuterieFor those who prefer an alternative to haggis, neeps, and tatties, Great Glen Charcuterie's wild venison charcuterie promises a just as authentic Scottish dining experience. Made from sustainably sourced and air-dried venison, the charcuterie showcases the distinctive flavour of the wild Scottish fauna.
Lambswool Blankets from Tartan Blanket CompanyMade from pure lambswool, these blankets evoke the soft, soothing tones of traditional tartans, providing a modern take on a timeless design. The perfect accessory to curl up under with a warm beverage, a book, or even an open fire.
Postcard Sets by Snapdragon LifeBrighten someone's otherwise bleak winter with a thoughtful handwritten note. Drawing inspiration from the picturesque landscapes of Loch Lomond National Park, Jane's postcard sets offer a charming incentive to rekindle the joy of snail mail.
Artshade Lampshades by NeedlesmithsInfusing a touch of the Scottish wilds into your home, Kate's hand-painted and stitched lampshades depict the landscapes and seascapes of the Mid-Argyll region. Each design is a work of art, adding a unique and personal touch to your living space.
Knitting and Hiking Tour by Shetland Wool AdventuresIf these Scottish-themed items spark an interest in the country, consider embarking on an unforgettable journey to the Shetland Isles. Although the 2020 tours are fully booked, you can sign up for updates on 2021 trips or inquire about bespoke tours to immerse yourself in the island's authentic culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you're captivated by Scotland's rich history, struck by the beauty of its landscapes, or intrigued by its vibrant folklore, these items offer a taste of the Highlands and Lowlands and celebrate the essence of Scotland's cultural identity.
[1] McKie, R. (2010). Robert Burns and the poetry of the land. Edinburgh University Press.[2] Macinnes, G. (2008). Scottish Landscapes: The Art of Imagination. The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.[3] Hammond, B. (2018). The Supernatural World of the Celts. Pen and Sword History.
On the 25th of January, round off the festive occasion of Burns Night by embracing the spirit of Scotland with a slow living lifestyle, supporting small businesses offering food-and-drink like Great Glen Charcuterie's wild venison charcuterie, home-and-garden products such as Artshade Lampshades by Needlesmiths, postcard sets by Snapdragon Life, and even considering a knitting and hiking tour by Shetland Wool Adventures, all while immersing oneself in the essence of Scotland's cultural identity.
Indulge further in the arts inspired by the stunning landscapes of Scotland through literature, such as that found in Robert Burns and the poetry of the land by R. McKie or Scottish Landscapes: The Art of Imagination by G. Macinnes, or delve into the supernatural world of the Celts through Hammond's The Supernatural World of the Celts.
