Exploring Scottish culture and traditions today [Body]

Shown below you will find an overview of 3 significant Scottish celebrations featuring Burns Night, Hogmanay and the Highland Games.

Scottish culture is rich with history and customs which are heavily rooted in its heritage. One of the most intriguing and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night celebrations. Going back to the 19th century, Burns Night is a unique custom that acknowledges and celebrates Scotland's national poet Robert Burns. The occasion happens every year 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 celebrated by getting together over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry recitation. Furthermore, traditional food and whisky is enjoyed with most festivities serving haggis, a traditional meat dish that pays homage to the notorious Burns' poem 'Address to get more info a Haggis'. In today's times Scottish authorities regard Burns Night to be a fundamental part of their national legacy.

Throughout the year, Scotland is recognised for hosting a variety of events that commemorate Scottish history and deep-rooted Scottish cultural traditions. As the warm months of summertime approach, many Scots prepare for a course of competitive sporting events, known as the Highland Games. The games include sports which display strength and athleticism. Its beginnings are assumed to trace back to warrior training practices and early royal customs, with events including Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are accepted as a traditional time to wear kilts, which recognises the significance of tartan; an important sign of Scottish history, along with the opportunity to display traditional dancing and musical acts. Ann Gloag would concur that Scotland has lots of exciting celebrations. Similarly, Tom Hunter would acknowledge how important Scottish traditions are. Not just is this celebration a powerful expression of Scottish identity, but a way of protecting historic traditions.

Around the world, the new year is a notorious event with many unique and entertaining traditions. Amongst the most interesting and culturally relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most notable Scottish customs. Due to the historic ban on Christmas celebrations, Hogmanay became the most significant and most valued events of the Scottish calendar. The festival commemorates the completion of the old year, starting from the 31st of December and typically lasting up until the 2nd of January. Though its beginnings are unclear, it is thought to have influences from the Celtic winter solstice celebrations and Norse yule celebrations. The event includes a variety 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 acknowledge the remarkable customs of the Hogmanay celebration. This celebration is very important as it brings together neighborhoods and keeps ancient customs alive.