Every year, people around the globe gather to celebrate the life and work of famous Scottish poet Robert Burns. The celebration, most commonly referred to as Burns Night, is typically held close to Burns' birthday on Jan. 25, and it incorporates many Scottish traditions. The Octorara Covenanter Presbyterian Foundation, based in Quarryville, invites members of the public to attend a Burns Night Supper at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3. The event will be hosted at Beale Manor, 200 S. Church St., Parkesburg.

Upon guests' arrival at Beale Manor, they will be greeted with music from bagpiper Thompson McConnell. After a social time and a performance by fiddler Tom Knapp, attendees will participate a traditional Scottish haggis ceremony led by Donald Henderson. The ritual will include a tasting of the dish and Scotch whiskey, as well as information on the cultural significance of haggis. In 1786, Burns wrote the poem "Address to a Haggis," which contributed to the food's popularity and its selection as Scotland's national dish. In addition to haggis, a buffet of beef, potato and leek soup, shortbread and other Scottish dishes will be served.

After supper, revelers will be invited to honor Burns by sharing his poems and speeches with each other. The readings often begin with a recitation of the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns toast, followed by various stories and songs written about the poet's life. Burns Night will conclude with a performance of "Auld Lang Syne" and other Scottish pieces by musician Charlie Zahm.

The first Burns Night was first celebrated in 1801, when Burns' friends gathered five years after his death to honor his memory. Due to Burns' profound influence on Scottish culture, the tradition was swiftly adopted by communities throughout Scotland and beyond. The Octorara Covenanter Presbyterian Foundation began hosting its rendition of the event six years ago. Due to the event's popularity and number of guests, the location was moved from Octorara Covenanter Presbyterian Church in Quarryville to Beale Manor after the first year. The proceeds of Burns Night will benefit the foundation's multiple restoration projects and ongoing maintenance at the church.

"You don't have to be Scottish to come and enjoy Burns Night," said event chair Donna McCool. "It's a unique evening, and we have a lot of fun."

To purchase a ticket for Burns Night, visit http://tinyurl.com/2024burnsnight or call McCool at 610-593-6989.