Estevan’s Robbie Burns Night celebration made a lively return Saturday, offering a vibrant tribute to Scottish heritage and the poetry of Robert Burns.
The event honours Scotland’s national poet, whose legacy is celebrated annually on Jan. 25. Ayrshire-born Burns, who died in 1796 at the age of 37, is renowned for his works in the Scots dialect and is regarded as one of the country’s most prominent literary figures.
Held at the Estevan Legion, the sold-out event attracted 210 people for a night of music, food, and community spirit. It featured performances by the Estevan Piping and Drumming School, the Kilted Wind Pipe Band, and traditional dances by the Drewitz School of Dance. Guests also enjoyed a serving of haggis, staying true to Scottish tradition.
Angela Durr, with the Estevan Piping and Drumming School and Kilted Wind Pipe Band, called the evening a success. "I love the performances with the bands and dancing. I’ve been doing this for 42 years now, so it’s always great when you can get multiple people together to play,” Durr said.
The two bands featured about 20 musicians, though Durr noted that many others in the community are involved with piping and drumming, even if they weren’t part of the evening’s performances.
Estevan’s Scottish community was well represented, with many attendees donning traditional Highland dress. Durr said one of the highlights of the night was the strong sense of togetherness. “I know there are others in the community that aren’t playing with us, but it’s bigger than people think,” she said.
She added that the event, which remains a community favourite, will continue to be an annual tradition. “We usually sell out most years, so if people are wanting tickets, they should buy them early,” Durr said.
