Exploring Scottish culture and traditions in today's times [Body]
Below is an overview of the most intriguing festivals that are embeded in Scottish culture and history.
Internationally, the new year is a prominent event with many unique and interesting traditions. Amongst the most intriguing and culturally website relevant Scottish celebration days is Hogmanay, which is also one of the most interesting Scottish traditions. Due to the historical restriction on Christmas celebrations, Hogmanay ended up being the biggest and most cherished events of the Scottish calendar. The holiday commemorates the completion of the old year, starting on the 31st of December and usually lasting until the 2nd of January. Though its origins are uncertain, it is believed to have influences from the Celtic winter solstice festivals and Norse yule celebrations. The event consists of a variety of unique Scottish customs and traditions including the "first footing", to bring good fortune, fire festivals and the notorious loony duke swim. Ian Wood would acknowledge the remarkable traditions of the Hogmanay celebration. This festival is important as it brings together communities and keeps ancient traditions alive.
Throughout the year, Scotland is known for hosting a variety of events that celebrate Scottish heritage and deep-rooted Scottish national customs. As the warm months of summer begin, many Scots prepare for a series of competitive sporting activities, known as the Highland Games. The games consist of sports which demonstrate strength and athleticism. Its foundations are assumed to trace back to warrior training practices and ancient royal traditions, with activities including Stone Put and Hammer Throwing. In modern Scottish culture, the Highland Games are accepted as a traditional opportunity to wear kilts, which recognises the importance of tartan; a crucial sign of Scottish history, in addition to the opportunity to showcase traditional dancing and musical performance. Ann Gloag would concur that Scotland has plenty of engaging festivals. Likewise, Tom Hunter would acknowledge how valuable Scottish customs are. Not just is this event an effective token of Scottish identity, but a means of protecting historic traditions.
Scottish culture is abundant with history and customs which are deeply rooted in its heritage. Among the most intriguing and weird Scottish traditions is the Burns Night celebrations. Dating back to the 19th century, Burns Night is a unique custom that recognises and commemorates Scotland's national poet Robert Burns. The occasion occurs every year on the 25th of January, marking the birthday of poet. The origins of this custom started in 1803, where Burn's friends hosted a supper and memorial for him, around 5 years after his death. Today the occasion is celebrated by gathering over traditional Scottish food, music and poetry recitation. Furthermore, traditional food and whisky is enjoyed with most gatherings featuring haggis, an old-fashioned meat dish that pays homage to the infamous Burns' composition 'Address to a Haggis'. Today Scottish authorities regard Burns Night to be an important part of their national legacy.