robbie burns supper january 25th 2025

By Kayleigh Armstrong

The 2025 Robbie Burns Supper took place on January 25, and was a spectacular celebration of Scottish culture, filled with tradition, laughter, and community spirit. Guests gathered at the NDHQ Warrant Officer’s & Sergeant’s Mess to honor Scotland’s bard, Robert Burns, with an evening of fine dining, music, and lively dancing.

The evening began with a warm welcome at the cocktail reception, followed by a delicious multi-course meal featuring traditional Scottish fare. The haggis, neeps, and tatties were enjoyed by all, but it was the late-night snack of haggis poutine that stole the show!

The evening’s traditional program was perfectly executed with the Address to the Haggis performed with energy and enthusiasm by the SSO’s Jen Hill and her team.

The Selkirk Grace was delivered beautifully by Padre Captain Michael Perrault and John Devine moved the room with a stirring Immortal Memory, honoring the life and works of Robert Burns. The Toast to the Lassies and Reply to the Laddies, was humorously delivered by Scott Laplante and Chelsea Laplante, and brought laughter and warmth to the celebration.

Our Master of Ceremonies, John McLuckie, Chair of the Scottish Society of Ottawa, kept the evening running smoothly with charm and wit, and live performances brought vibrancy to the night, including John Young who serenaded guests with Scottish favourites during the cocktail hour.

The Reel Ottawa Dance Company wowed with their elegant display of traditional Scottish dance and The Pipes and Drums of the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa filled the air with the stirring sounds of bagpipes, setting the perfect tone for the evening.

Finally, the ceilidh dance, led by the phenomenal Hadrian’s Wall, had everyone on their feet and dancing well into the night—a true testament to the spirit of the celebration.

We owe a huge thank-you to our incredible sponsors for their generous contributions. Support from the Scottish Government and Jewitt McLuckie & Associates helped make the event a resounding success. Noble Estates ensured our glasses were always full, pouring exceptional whiskey and gin for guests to savor, and Glengarry Maple donated a generous door prize gift basket, which added an extra layer of excitement to the evening!

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this memorable evening. Your support and love for Scottish culture made the event a true success. We can’t wait to welcome you back next year for another incredible Robbie Burns Supper!

Slàinte mhath!