Burns Night Supper and Ceilidh Dance

101 North 10th Street,Columbia MO 65201

28 January, 2023

Description

A traditional Scottish celebration, Burns Night is a commemoration of the Romantic poet Robert Burns. More so, it is an opportunity to don your fanciest kilt, try some haggis, and dance the night away! Fight off the winter duldrums by gathering together to share a traditional meal of haggis, neeps 'n tatties and kick up your heels to musicians from the Central Missouri Celtic Arts Association! A ceilidh is a traditional Scottish dance - lively, full of energy, and featuring lots of twirling. Anyone who has ever done contra dancing or square dancing will likely feel right at home, and for those who fear they have 2 left feet, the caller will direct everyone on every step, in additional to a slowed-down practice walkthrough of every song. It is absolutely open to ALL, no experience necessary! Dr. Christine Harker from Truman State is a very experienced and highly-regarded caller, so this will be a treat. The meal has a host of traditions associated beyond just the menu. The event will be 'piped in' by a local bagpiper, and toasts, readings, and even songs are offered while the crowd eats. Technically, haggis is illegal to sell in the States, so we will have some very similar alternatives. The jewel in the crown is the sticky toffee pudding (if you know, you know). There is no dress code, please come wearing shoes you can dance in! But in Scotland, it's not unusual for folks to dress up as if it is a wedding - kilts, suit jackets, and dance-friendly dresses. But if you'd like to be a little less formal, try to just grab something plaid! Those interested are also welcome to nip a dram of whisky (for adults 21+) in the tasting room at Bethany Hall (a separate building, but located across just across an alley in our parking lot). This is not included in the ticket cost. We cannot serve alcohol within the church building, so whisky is strictly limited to Bethany Hall. We will check IDs and cap folks to ensure everyone's safety. Tickets are $30, or $50 for two (cash and card accepted at the door as well). We will pass a hat for musicians, as well as raffle off a small number of door prizes. All proceeds will support our annual missions trips, which encourage youth to pursue short-term educational experiences on issues of justice that they might become agents of change in their own communities. This year, the middle school youth are going to Kansas City to engage with economic and housing issues, while the high school students will travel to Fort Worth to better understand both food injustice and immigration needs. Additional donations are always welcome. Doors open at 5:45, meal starts ~6!