The spirit of Scotland was found to be alive and well in the lakecity Saturday night as the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 139 celebrated Robbie Burns Night.
Held each year around the world to celebrate the life of Robert Burns, an influential Scottish poet considered by many to be the greatest Scott to ever live, this night has also become a chance to celebrate Scottish heritage. In Williams Lake, this event has been a popular one for years and draws dozens of people to the Legion for a night of good food, camaraderie, Drambuie and music.
This past Saturday was no exception to that rule with a delicious dinner of roast beef, mashed potatoes, haggis and more enjoyed by attendees young and old. After food and some drinks, the performance part of the night kicked off in style.
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The Cariboo Chilcotin Youth Fiddle Society performed several classic Gaelic songs showing off their skill and dedication to their craft. A few even showed off their singing voices, much to the delight of the crowd.
Throughout the night, several pillars of the Williams Lake community came up and read poetry written or inspired by Robbie Burns, or gave a summary of the man’s short but busy life. These stories were met with laughter and good cheer all around.
The Williams Lake Pipe Band meanwhile was showcasing some of its youngest members including Paighton Bings and introducing for the first time young Declan Earnshaw. While the oldest piper in the house, 89-year-old Doug White, did not join them, he closed off the night with an authentic rendition of the Star of Robbie Burns.
patrick.davies@wltribune.com
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