The Chestermere Whitecappers are bringing out the bag pipes and haggis to celebrate Robert Burns Day on Jan. 29.
“The poet is celebrated because his words could touch the soul in so many ways,” said President of the Calgary Burns Club Jim Hutchens.
“His poetry and songs have transcended time like no other poet,” Hutchens said.
Its for this reason that the Whitecappers celebrate Robbie Burns with their monthly potluck dinner.
“It’s important to keep traditions going in the community,” said Vice President of the Chestermere Whitecappers Michael Ball.
He added, when Robert Burns died his friends had a dinner to honour him, and read the Address to the Haggis, which has carried on for more than 200 years.
“People can bring whatever they want, it doesn’t have to be haggis. We would like to see the general public here,” Ball said.
“We have some members who are Scottish, they are definitely into Robbie Burns Day,” Ball added.
Hutchens was once asked what it meant to be Scottish, he said, the answer lies with Scotland’s heroes, William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, and Robert Burns.
“They each espoused freedom. Freedom of scots as people. Freedom of the souls, of mind, of thought and of speech and the freedom to fulfill our dreams and potential.
“That is what it means to be Scottish and to be Canadian, and to live in this country which espouses those same values as my forefathers.
Robert Burns captured all this and more in his works and words,” Hutchens said.
Hutchens suggests Robert Burns Day be celebrated because of the humanity of the poet.
“His grasp of the fact all men and women were created equal in a time when the station of people was defined by class and wealth,” Hutchens said.
Everyone should find and read some of Robert Burns poems or songs to celebrate the poet, Hutchens said.
He added, “You may find and understand why we celebrate the immortal memory of the world’s greatest poet.”
The public are invited to join the Whitecappers in celebrating Robbie Burns day Jan. 29 from 4:30 p.m., until 8:30 p.m.
Chestermere residents can enjoy a potluck dinner while remembering and celebrating the Scottish poet and lyricist known for Auld Lang Syne.
