Lochaneil Society’s 38th “Robbie Burns Night” Supper – Old Armouries, Kenora, Ontario (January 27, 2023)

On January 27, 2023 around 33 members and guests of the Kenora Lochaneil Society attended the 38th annual Robbie Burns Night in honour of the great Scottish poet, Robert Burns. The dinner and celebrations were held at the Old Armouries and a wonderful evening of food, drink, music, poetry and all manner of good times was had by all.

PM Cecil Burns started the proceedings by piping in the Haggis, followed by Alex Coats performing the “Address to a Haggis” in his natural Scottish brogue. The meal was catered by Gropps and included succulent roast beef, neeps and tatties and a delicious variety of side dishes. A good selection of single malt whisky was also enjoyed.

Following dinner there was a series of toasts presented including to the City of Kenora, to The Lassies and to Canada and the King followed by the Toast to the Immortal Memory given by Will Scutt. The crowd was then treated to a spectacular performance on the bagpipes by PM Wes Sheppard from the Winnipeg St. Andrews Pipe Band (former Pipe-Major of the Kenora Scottish Pipes and Drums).

Poetry readings (including a very long ode sent in by Bruce Williams and recited by Cecil Burns), numerous jokes and the Scottish Raffle followed. The evening ended with the singing of “Auld Lang Syne” and a promise to do it all again next year.