A Night to Remember: Robbie Burns Supper and Ceilidh 2026
By Kayleigh Armstrong
From the moment guests arrived, the room buzzed with warmth, laughter, and unmistakable Scottish pride — and it’s no surprise the evening was completely sold out.
The night began with a lively cocktail hour that immediately set the tone. Guests were welcomed by soaring vocals from John Young, the unmistakable power of the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa on pipes and drums, and the dynamic energy of the Reel Ottawa Dance Company. The formalities of the evening began, as tradition demands, with a rousing Address to the Haggis, delivered with flair by Jen Hill — a moment that never fails to bring both laughter and applause.
Reel Ottawa Dancers performing in the dining room.
As guests made their way to dinner, the heart of the evening unfolded. We were expertly guided through the program by our MC, John McLuckie, who did a phenomenal job keeping the night moving seamlessly while balancing humour, tradition, and warmth. The Selkirk Grace was delivered by Donald Macdonald, Chair of the Scottish Society of Ottawa, setting a respectful and celebratory tone for the meal ahead.
One of the highlights of the evening was the Immortal Memory, presented by John Devine on behalf of the Scottish Government — a thoughtful and engaging reflection on the life, legacy, and enduring relevance of Robert Burns. The room then filled with laughter and cheer during the traditional toasts: John Fraser, MPP, Ottawa South, raised a spirited Toast to the Lassies, followed by Councillor Laura Dudas, Innes Ward, with a witty and well-received Toast to the Laddies.
Dinner concluded with a warm and well-earned Toast to John Barleycorn, whisky glasses raised high, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Isle of Arran Distillers — a fitting way to honour Burns’ love of good company and fine spirits.
And just when guests thought the night couldn’t get better, the tables were cleared and the ceilidh began. With live music from Atlantic Firth, the dance floor quickly filled, and the celebration carried on well into the wee hours. As a final late-night treat, haggis poutine was served — the perfect fuel for one last dance (or three).
The evening was graciously hosted at the NDHQ Warrant Officers’ & Sergeants’ Mess, whose hospitality and beautifully prepared meal once again exceeded expectations.
We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors and supporters who helped make this night possible: the Scottish Government in Canada, Jewitt McLuckie & Associates, and ScotDance Canada Championship Series Ottawa 2025. Thank you as well to Glengarry Maple, Jacobsons, and Whisky Glass Canada for their generous door prize donations, and to The Scotland Shop for providing a special discount to our members.
Above all, this year’s Robbie Burns Supper & Ceilidh was a true celebration of community — a night filled with music, poetry, laughter, and a shared love of Scottish culture. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to honour the Bard.
Learn about: The Trencher, the hod, the Palaquin…and the haggis
Enjoy some unique poetry: The address to the…Poutine?
Photos: Lisa Boudreau
