For a round-up of Robbie Burns Day events in Edmonton for 2015, please read this post!
Robert Burns Day
In celebration of the spirit, honour and tradition of Robert Burns — Scotland’s most famous poet — it’s become tradition to toast a glass of scotch or whisky to his legacy and celebrate with a formal Scottish dinner. Here’s where you can take in the Robert Burns Day festivities in Edmonton this year:
Fionn MacCool’s | Edmonton City Centre Mall, 10200-102A Ave. | www.primepubs.com
Saturday, January 25, 6 pm: All of Burns’ modern day namesakes — anyone with a name variation of Robert, Burns, Rob, or Roberta — will receive a free plate of Mini Yorkshire Puddings. Guests with less famous names are still guaranteed to have a great time as there is plenty of food, drink, and fun planned:
- Ode to the Haggis: A Haggis will be formally piped in at 7 pm and given the traditional address. Following the ceremonial cutting, guests will be invited to sample the “tasty” Scottish dish.
- Scottish Pipe Music: An authentic Scottish piper will play rousing Scottish pipe music.
- Throughout the night guests will be invited to honour Burns by raising a whisky toast and listening to readings of his famous poems.
- Scotch Whisky Tastings: Starting at 6 pm guests can participate in scotch tasting sessions and history talks featuring Dewar’s White Label, Dewar’s Highlander Honey, and Dewar’s Alberfeldy 12.
Rutherford House | 11153 Saskatchewan Dr. | www.facebook.com/groups/friendsofrutherfordhouse
Sunday, January 19, 12 pm – 4pm: Celebrations for the whole family! Scottish dancers, bagpipes, poetry and the “Address to the Haggis” will take place in the historic Rutherford House. Regular admission applies: $4 Adult, $3 Senior/Youth; Children 6 and under are free; $12 Family (2 adults and their children under 18).
Friday, January 24, 6:30 pm – 10 pm: Ticket price ($60) includes a 4 course meal prepared by Chef Richard Toll. The menu will consist of Scotch Eggs, Cock-a-Leekie Soup, Haggis or Beef, and Drumloch Cheese and Biscuits. A selection of scotch, whiskys, and other beverages will be available for purchase.
A live piper will perform throughout the night, and poetry readings and music will ring throughout the house.
New Asian Village | 10149 Saskatchewan Dr. | www.newasianvillage.com
Friday, January 24: This Indian restaurant is serving up a special curry haggis just for the occasion.
Great Spots for Scotch (or Whisky)
If you just want a good, stiff drink and a selection to choose from, these intimate spots will have just what you need:
The Bothy Wine & Whisky Bar
5482 Calgary Tr. | 780-760-8060 | www.thebothy.ca
10124-124 St. | 780-760-8060 | www.thebothy.ca
North 53
10240-124 St. | 587-524-5353 | www.north53.ca
Woodwork
10132-100 St. | 780-757-4100 | woodworkyeg.com
Tavern 1903
9802 Jasper Ave. | 780-424-0152 | tavern1903.com
