The Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands will host its 31st Annual Robert Burns Supper on Saturday, January 24, at the Minden Civic Center, continuing a long-running tradition honoring Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns.
Burns, born January 25, 1759, in Alloway, Scotland, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Scottish literature. He wrote in both Scots and standard English and is best known for works such as “Auld Lang Syne,” “To a Mouse” and “Address to a Haggis.” His poetry and songs celebrated everyday life, love and Scottish identity, and his legacy is marked around the world each year through Burns Suppers held near the anniversary of his birth.
The formal celebration is held annually on the Saturday closest to Burns’ birthday and features a full evening program that includes a silent auction, tributes, dancing, contests and, of course, haggis.
The event will take place at the Minden Civic Center, located at 520 Broadway. A cocktail hour is scheduled to begin at 5 PM, with the haggis piped in at 6 PM.
Attendees are asked to follow a cocktail to formal dress code, with no jeans permitted. Kilts with jackets are preferred for men, though not required. Ladies are encouraged to wear evening dresses up to tea-length, or dress slacks with a blouse, with a tartan sash suggested as an accessory.
Tickets are available by advance reservation only. Adult tickets are $65 and include the meal. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase at a cash bar.
The Scottish Society of the Louisiana Highlands is also known for organizing the annual Scottish Tartan Festival, a popular community event that will be held this year on May 2.