Looking into Scottish culture and celebrations [Body]
Shown below you will find an outline of three important Scottish festivals featuring Burns Night, Hogmanay and the Highland Games.
Around the world, the new year is a famous event with many original and remarkable customs. Amongst the most fascinating and culturally relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most enjoyable Scottish customs. Due to the historical ban on Christmas events, Hogmanay became the biggest and most valued events of the Scottish calendar. The event commemorates the end of the old year, starting from the 31st of December and more info usually lasting until the 2nd of January. Though its originations are uncertain, it is thought to have influences from the Celtic winter solstice festivals and Norse yule celebrations. The event consists of a set of unique Scottish customs and traditions consisting of the "first footing", to bring good fortune, bonfires and the infamous 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 practices alive.
Throughout the year, Scotland is known for hosting a number of events that celebrate Scottish heritage and deep-rooted Scottish national customs. As the warm months of summer approach, many Scots get ready for a series of competitive sporting activities, known as the Highland Games. The competitions consist of sports which exhibit strength and athleticism. Its origins are considered to trace back to warrior training practices and old royal traditions, with games including Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are accepted as a traditional opportunity to wear kilts, which recognises the significance of tartan; a crucial symbol of Scottish history, as well as the opportunity to display traditional dancing and musical performance. Ann Gloag would agree that Scotland has plenty of exciting celebrations. Similarly, Tom Hunter would identify how important Scottish traditions are. Not just is this event a powerful sign of Scottish identity, but a way of maintaining historic traditions.
Scottish culture is rich with history and customs which are heavily embeded in its heritage. Among the most fascinating and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night events. Going back to the 19th century, Burns Night is a distinct custom that acknowledges and commemorates Scotland's national poet Robert Burns. The event happens every year on the 25th of January, marking the birthday of poet. The origins of this custom began in 1803, where Burn's friends 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 recitation. Additionally, traditional food and whisky is enjoyed with most gatherings featuring haggis, a classic meat dish that pays homage to the notorious Burns' poem 'Address to a Haggis'. Today Scottish authorities regard Burns Night to be a fundamental part of their national legacy.