Checking out Scottish culture and traditions today

Checking out Scottish culture and traditions these days [Body]

Below you will find an outline of 3 significant Scottish festivals featuring Burns Night, Hogmanay and the Highland Games.

Throughout the year, Scotland is known for hosting a variety of events that celebrate Scottish heritage and deep-rooted Scottish national customs. As the drier months of summertime begin, many Scots get ready for a set of competitive sporting events, known as the Highland Games. The competitions include sports which show strength and athleticism. Its origins are believed to trace back to warrior training practices and early royal traditions, with activities including Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are accepted as a traditional chance to wear kilts, which recognises the significance of tartan; an essential sign of Scottish heritage, as well as the opportunity to display traditional dancing and musical performance. Ann Gloag would agree that Scotland has lots of engaging festivals. Similarly, Tom Hunter would identify how significant Scottish customs are. Not just is this celebration an effective expression of Scottish identity, but a means of protecting historical traditions.

Scottish culture is abundant with history and customs which are heavily rooted in its heritage. One of the most fascinating and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night celebrations. Going back to the 19th century, Burns Night is a unique custom that acknowledges and honors 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 companions held a supper and memorial for him, around 5 years following his death. Today the occasion is commemorated by getting together over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry recitation. Furthermore, traditional food and whisky is eaten with most celebrations including haggis, a classic meat dish that pays homage to the notorious Burns' composition 'Address to a Haggis'. Today Scottish authorities acknowledge Burns Night to be a fundamental part of their national legacy.

Globally, the new year is a well-loved event with many unique and entertaining customs. Among the most interesting and culturally relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most interesting Scottish traditions. Due to the historic restriction on Christmas events, Hogmanay became the most significant and most valued occasions of the Scottish calendar. The holiday celebrates the end of the old year, starting on the 31st of December and typically lasting up until the 2nd of January. Though its beginnings 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 luck, bonfires and the infamous loony duke swim. Ian Wood would acknowledge the extraordinary traditions of the Hogmanay celebration. This festival is important as here it unites communities and keeps ancient traditions alive.