BOWDEN - Celebrating renowned Scottish poet and lyricist Robert Burns has been a long-standing tradition at Bowden Grandview School.
Every year for 20 years students in Bill Whitehead's Grade 4 class have learned about Robert Burns, his work and Scottish culture.
"We'll have Michael McLetchie doing the address to the haggis and some piping," said Whitehead. "It's a celebration of Scottish culture and a celebration of Robbie Burns."
The 20th annual Robbie Burns Day at the school takes place Jan. 13 at 2 p.m. in the school library.
In addition to Burns' poetry and literature, the hour-long celebration will include food, music, Highland dancing and traditional Scottish attire.
"The boys are going to toast the lasses and the lasses are going to return the toast to the lads. We'll try and get through without (too much) giggling and splashing of drinks," said Whitehead, noting there will be haggis tasting and a number of speeches during the event.
Robbie Burns Day is officially marked every year on the poet's birthday, Jan. 25, noted Whitehead, adding that as a fifth-generation Canadian with Scottish roots, he is one of many Canadians who enjoy celebrating the work and life of Robert Burns.
"My roots do go back to Scotland. It seems like it's been in my genes to drop my jeans once a year and put on a kilt," he said. "I enjoy the craftsmanship of a word master. Today you can send true love to your gal in a 140-character or less (in a tweet) or you can read some Robert Burns, a guy that poured over the language and wrote some beautiful things," explained Whitehead.
Canadians from coast to coast and others around the world will also share in the celebration this month.
"All around the world they'll celebrate Robbie Burns. I tell the kids that what they're doing that day in Bowden will be done in Russia, Japan and other countries," he said, noting the importance of observing Robbie Burns Day.
"I've had kids come back years later and repeat some of the poetry they memorized. It means more to them as they grow older," said Whitehead. "It's been a pleasure to introduce the kids to Burns, poetry in general, and maybe a lifelong desire to learn some more poetry from different eras and from different countries."
Bill Whitehead
"It's a celebration of Scottish culture and a celebration of Robbie Burns."
