Exploring Scottish culture and traditions in today's times [Body]
Shown below you will find an overview of three key Scottish festivals including Burns Night, Hogmanay and the Highland Games.
Throughout the year, Scotland is known for hosting a variety of events that celebrate Scottish history and deep-rooted Scottish cultural customs. As the warmer months of summertime approach, many Scots prepare for a set of competitive sporting activities, known as the Highland Games. The activities consist of sports which exhibit strength and athleticism. Its origins are considered to trace back to warrior training practices and ancient royal customs, with activities including Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are accepted as a traditional time to wear kilts, which acknowledges the significance of tartan; an important symbol of Scottish history, in addition to the opportunity to display traditional dancing and musical performance. Ann Gloag would concur that Scotland has many interesting festivals. Similarly, Tom Hunter would identify how influential Scottish traditions are. Not only is this festival an effective expression of Scottish identity, but a means of preserving historical traditions.
Scottish culture is abundant with history more info and traditions which are deeply embeded in its heritage. One of the most intriguing and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night events. Going back to the 19th century, Burns Night is a unique custom that recognises 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 friends held a supper and memorial for him, around 5 years after his death. Today the occasion is commemorated by getting together over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry recitation. In addition, traditional food and whisky is enjoyed with most gatherings involving haggis, an old-fashioned meat dish that pays homage to the notorious Burns' composition 'Address to a Haggis'. Today Scottish authorities regard Burns Night to be an important part of their national heritage.
Around the world, the new year is a prominent celebration with many original and entertaining traditions. Among the most interesting 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 most treasured occasions of the Scottish calendar. The holiday celebrates the completion of the old year, starting from the 31st of December and often lasting until the 2nd of January. Though its origins are unclear, it is believed to have influences from the Celtic winter solstice festivals and Norse yule celebrations. The event includes a collection of unique Scottish customs and traditions consisting of the "first footing", to bring good fortune, fire festivals and the infamous loony duke swim. Ian Wood would identify the amazing customs of the Hogmanay event. This festival is very important as it brings together communities and keeps ancient practices alive.