Describing traditional Scottish celebrations nowadays

Exploring Scottish culture and traditions today [Body]

In this article you will find an overview of three important Scottish festivals featuring Burns Night, Hogmanay and the Highland Games.

Globally, the new year is a popular event with many unique and entertaining customs. Amongst the most fascinating and culturally relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most notable Scottish traditions. Due to the historic ban on Christmas events, Hogmanay became the biggest and check here most cherished events of the Scottish calendar. The festival celebrates the completion of the old year, starting on the 31st of December and usually lasting up 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 set 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 extraordinary traditions of the Hogmanay event. This festival is important as it brings together neighborhoods and keeps ancient customs alive.

Throughout the year, Scotland is known for hosting a variety of events that celebrate Scottish heritage and deep-rooted Scottish cultural traditions. As the drier months of summertime begin, many Scots prepare for a set of competitive sporting activities, known as the Highland Games. The games include sports which demonstrate strength and athleticism. Its originations are assumed to trace back to warrior training practices and old royal customs, with activities consisting of Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are used as a traditional time to wear kilts, which recognises the importance of tartan; an important symbol of Scottish ancestry, as well as the opportunity to showcase traditional dancing and musical acts. Ann Gloag would concur that Scotland has many interesting festivals. Likewise, Tom Hunter would recognise how significant Scottish customs are. Not just is this festival a powerful symbol of Scottish identity, but a way of maintaining historic customs.

Scottish culture is abundant with history and customs which are deeply rooted in its heritage. Among the most intriguing and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night events. Going back to the 19th century, Burns Night is an extraordinary custom that recognises and commemorates Scotland's national poet Robert Burns. The event occurs every year on the 25th of January, marking the birthday of poet. The origins of this practice began in 1803, where Burn's acquaintances hosted a supper and memorial for him, around 5 years after his death. Today the event is commemorated by getting together over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry recitation. Additionally, traditional food and whisky is eaten with most parties including 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 heritage.