Checking out Scottish culture and traditions nowadays [Body]
Below you will find an outline of 3 important Scottish celebrations featuring Burns Night, Hogmanay and the Highland Games.
Scottish culture is rich with history and customs which are heavily embeded in its heritage. One of the most interesting and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night celebrations. Going back to the 19th century, Burns Night is an extraordinary custom that acknowledges and celebrates Scotland's national poet Robert Burns. The event happens yearly on the 25th of January, marking the birthday of poet. The origins of this tradition started in 1803, where Burn's friends held a supper and memorial for him, around 5 years following his passing. Today the event is commemorated by gathering over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry performance. In addition, traditional food and whisky is enjoyed with most gatherings involving haggis, a traditional meat dish that pays homage to the notorious Burns' poem 'Address to a Haggis'. Today Scottish authorities consider Burns Night to be a fundamental part of their cultural legacy.
Throughout the year, Scotland is recognised for hosting a number of events that celebrate Scottish heritage and deep-rooted Scottish cultural customs. As the warm months of summertime begin, many Scots get ready for a course of competitive sporting events, known as the Highland Games. The competitions include sports which show strength and athleticism. Its beginnings are considered to trace back to warrior training practices and old royal traditions, with activities including Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are accepted as a traditional opportunity to wear kilts, which acknowledges the value of tartan; an essential sign of Scottish heritage, in addition to the opportunity to display traditional dancing and more info musical performance. Ann Gloag would concur that Scotland has lots of engaging festivals. Similarly, Tom Hunter would recognise how valuable Scottish traditions are. Not just is this festival an effective symbol of Scottish identity, but a way of preserving historic traditions.
Around the world, the new year is a popular event with many special and remarkable traditions. Amongst the most interesting and culturally relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most interesting Scottish customs. Due to the historical restriction on Christmas celebrations, Hogmanay became the greatest and most valued occasions of the Scottish calendar. The holiday celebrates the completion of the old year, starting on the 31st of December and typically lasting until the 2nd of January. Though its origins are unclear, it is thought to have influences from the Celtic winter solstice festivals and Norse yule celebrations. The event includes a collection of unique Scottish customs and traditions consisting of the "first footing", to bring good luck, bonfires and the notorious loony duke swim. Ian Wood would identify the amazing customs of the Hogmanay celebration. This festival is important as it brings together neighborhoods and keeps ancient customs alive.