The annual Burns Dinner returns to Cape Town next year in February. The dinner celebrates the life and famous works of Scotland’s most famous poet and writer, Robert Burns, who was born on 25 January in 1759.
Image supplied
Burns Dinners are always held near the poet’s birthday. The first was held at Burns Cottage by Burns’s friends in July 1801 on the fifth anniversary of his death. In addition to being a literary icon, Robert Burns was also a humanitarian who stood for social justice and gender equality.
Image supplied
February’s dinner is expected to break previous events’ attendance records. The night is one of song and dance, Scottish whisky, tartan, and bagpipes. The dinner raises funds for various causes, including a children’s home and a shelter for terminally-ill elderly people in poor communities in Cape Town.
Image supplied
Scot-born Claire Alexander, the director of the event, says, ‘Over the years, Dinner guests have evolved from a purely Scottish crowd to an [international one] … in 2018 [it] welcomed 15 different nationalities … and the evening had a younger feel, with a distinctly Mother City heartbeat. It’s remarkable how one man’s words have created an immortal legacy of kindness and unity.’
Image supplied
Do it
Date: Saturday 9 February 2019
Cost: R660 per person (this includes a three-course meal, complimentary whisky, complimentary Hendricks Gin, table wine, and entertainment)
Dress Code: Scottish attire or Black tie
Tickets: www.burnsnight.co.za
