The Southwest Voice

By: Courtesy of the Kern County Scottish Society

The Kern County Scottish Society invites the public to a most distinctive celebration of the life of Robert Burns, Scotland’s most famous bard (or poet) on Jan. 26, marking his 249th birthday. For more than 200 years, Scottish people all over the world have paused to remember the poems and songs of their national hero who immortalized Scottish culture and the common man.

The KCSS Burns dinner, following a traditional format, will be held in the Liberty Room of Hodel’s Restaurant, 5917 Knudson Drive, and will feature not only supper but entertainment provided by the traditional Celtic music of Banshee in the Kitchen and The Tehachapi Mountain Pipes and Drums. Both musical organizations have developed a local following. The Tehachapi Mountain Pipes and Drums can be seen performing in many statewide parades and Highland games. Both groups are dedicated to keeping Scottish and other Celtic traditions alive.

As part of the dinner, Burn’s poem “An Address to the Haggis,” will be given in honor of the Scottish national dish. A special presentation (a toast) is expressed at the haggis, a dish of very humble origins.

The Burns dinner is the most formal Scottish event of the year for the KCSS. Many local Scots will be donning the kilts and family tartan.

Burns was born in 1759 to farming parents, but Burns learned the skill of writing and began writing poems and odes, many of which were put to music. He was recognized for his ability to capture everyday life experiences in a poetic prose. Among his enduring works are “Auld Lang Syne,” “My Love is Like a Red, Red, Rose” and “My Heart’s in the Highlands.” Burns died at 37 from heart disease, but he is still remembered for his heartfelt poems.

The Robert Burns dinner is open to the public, but reservations are required. Cost for the dinner is $40 per person. Doors open at 6 p.m. for cocktails and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. For more information, visit: www.kernscot.com, call 393-6765 or 827-8001 or visit our clubhouse at 1985 Airport Drive.