By Campbell Finlayson

Haggis, neeps and tatties, ceilidh dancing, poems and music, all staples of Burns Night every year, and with the bard’s birthday coming around once again, there will be plenty of this to be seen around the country.

One such place people will be able to enjoy the delights of Scotland’s poet, is his hometown of Ayr where a number of events have been set up to celebrate his birthday. The “Burns an’ a’ That” festival is heading into its 19^th year and has added to its set up with a new event, “Burns on the Beach”.

As part of Scotland’s Winter Festivals and as one of the first Year of Coast and Waters Celebrations, Burns on the Beach has been added to the festival. South Ayrshire Council Tourism and Marketing Officer Jacqueline Ross, explains the aims behind the festival, saying; “South Ayrshire Council work in partnership every year with the National Trust Scotland and others to put events on during the Burns Night celebrations. As the birthplace of Robert Burns, we aim to celebrate his life, his work and his legacy.”

With the free event aiming to attract a large crowd, it can be attended by people of all ages, as Ayrshire and beyond come together to celebrate Burns, with many activities available. 

“Taking place on Friday 24^th January at the pier end of Ayr beach, the event features five unique light installations on the beach, pier, poetry path and at the Watchful boat. In addition, there will be a bonfire, marshmallow toasting, Scottish street food and Burns themed performances from Pyro Celtica. The evening concludes with a Burning Burns tribute to the sound of Clanadonia.”

As well as this, the Burns Hame Toun Folk Festival also takes place while the winner of the Robert Burns Humanitarian Awards will be announced.