Outlining old Scottish customs and celebrations

Exploring Scottish culture and traditions these days [Body]

The short article beneath will discuss how Scottish culture is celebrated through a series of special festivals and traditions.

Globally, the new year is a prominent celebration with many distinct and remarkable traditions. Among the most intriguing and culturally relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most interesting Scottish traditions. Due to the historic restriction on Christmas events, Hogmanay became the biggest and most valued occasions of the Scottish calendar. The holiday commemorates the end of the old year, starting from the 31st of December and typically lasting up until the 2nd of January. Though its origins are uncertain, it is thought to have influences from the Celtic winter solstice celebrations and Norse yule celebrations. The event consists of a series of unique Scottish customs and traditions including the "first footing", to bring good luck, bonfires and the infamous loony duke swim. Ian Wood read more would identify the extraordinary traditions of the Hogmanay event. This festival is very important as it brings together communities and keeps ancient customs alive.

Throughout the year, Scotland is known for hosting a variety of events that commemorate Scottish history and deep-rooted Scottish cultural customs. As the drier months of summer approach, many Scots prepare for a course of competitive sporting activities, known as the Highland Games. The games consist of sports which demonstrate strength and athleticism. Its originations are assumed to trace back to warrior training practices and early royal customs, with events consisting of Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are accepted as a traditional opportunity to wear kilts, which acknowledges the value of tartan; a crucial sign of Scottish history, along with the opportunity to display traditional dancing and musical acts. Ann Gloag would agree that Scotland has numerous interesting festivals. Likewise, Tom Hunter would identify how influential Scottish customs are. Not just is this event a powerful expression of Scottish identity, but a method of maintaining historical traditions.

Scottish culture is abundant with history and customs which are deeply rooted in its heritage. One of the most interesting and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night celebrations. Dating back to the 19th century, Burns Night is an extraordinary custom that acknowledges and celebrates Scotland's national poet Robert Burns. The occasion takes place annually on the 25th of January, marking the birthday of poet. The origins of this practice started in 1803, where Burn's companions held a supper and memorial for him, around 5 years after his death. Today the event is celebrated by gathering over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry performance. In addition, traditional food and whisky is eaten with most gatherings involving haggis, a traditional meat dish that pays homage to the infamous Burns' composition 'Address to a Haggis'. In the present day Scottish authorities consider Burns Night to be an important part of their cultural legacy.