Burns Night

Beeston Burns Bright: A Night of Haggis, Laughter, and Cullen Skink!

Join Beeston as it embraces Burns Night with culinary adventures and community spirit! From Cullen skink to neeps and tatties, it's a tasty celebration!

As the sun sets on Beeston Square this Saturday evening, the town gears up to celebrate Burns Night in style. Starting at 6 PM, residents and visitors alike will gather to honour Scotland's most famed poet, Robert Burns, in a night filled with lively festivities, traditional music, and, of course, some tasty Scottish dishes. Picture a community coming together, laughter echoing through the air, and the warmth of camaraderie as everyone pays homage to the bard who gave us such classics as 'Auld Lang Syne'.

In a spirit of culinary adventure, I decided to dive headfirst into the Scottish tradition by whipping up a feast of Cullen skink and neeps and tatties for my very first Burns Night. Let me tell you – I was pleasantly surprised! The creamy and hearty Cullen skink, with its smoked haddock, potatoes, and a hint of onion, left my taste buds dancing with joy. And pairing it with the comforting and slightly sweet neeps (swede) and buttery tatties (potatoes) made for a delightful dinner that transported me straight to a cozy Scottish pub. Who knew I was missing out on such deliciousness until now?

If you’ve never celebrated Burns Night, like I hadn’t until recently, you’re truly missing out. After hearing about it from a new Oxford-educated teacher over a decade ago, I finally decided to host my own celebration this year. Sharing a meal that brings together friends and community while honouring Scottish culture was not just about the food; it was about bonding with those around me and creating merry memories that will last. The shared stories, laughter, and a wee dram of whisky certainly made it a night to remember.

As this quaint Nottinghamshire town lights up for a night of celebrations, it serves as a reminder that food is a universal language that can unite us all. So whether you’re a Beeston local or just popped in for the festivities, embrace the spirit of Burns Night, and maybe try your hand at making some traditional dishes yourself. Who knows, you may just fall in love with Scottish cuisine just like I did!

Did you know that Burns Night has been celebrated since the early 1800s? It's a tribute not just to the poet himself but serves as an occasion for Scottish communities to gather and indulge in their culinary heritage! And, fun fact – Cullen skink, one of the stars of the night, hails from the fishermen’s town of Cullen in Scotland and is steeped in history that reflects the flavours of the sea!