The Scottish Society of the Treasure Coast hosted its Robert Burns 266th Birthday Celebration at the Pointe West Country Club, an international tradition that pays homage to the life and works of Scotland’s national bard, while at the same time honoring the country’s rich cultural heritage. Guests enjoyed an evening filled with Scottish customs, music and dancing. Many proudly wore their clan colors, with gentlemen donning kilts and sporrans and women adding sashes to their outfits, securing them with Scottish clan pins and brooches. The Highland Dancers from the Oakland Centre for Dance & the Performing Arts showcased their repertoire of traditional Highland dances, including the Scotch Measure, Blue Bonnets Over the Border, Sword Dance and Barracks Johnny. The Vero Beach Pipes & Drums gave a rousing performance before leading a procession into dinner for the presentation of the chieftain haggis, the national dish of Scotland. The “crowning glory” of any true Scottish Burns Night supper, the “savory pudding” is made from the organ meats of a sheep mixed with oats, onions and seasonings and boiled in a casing. The dish was made famous by the poem “Address to a Haggis,” written by Burns in 1786 and, standing with tradition, Burns’ poem was read before the Selkirk Grace was said, with all raising a glass in toast, Slàinte mhath. Later, James Auld, whose family has a personal connection to Robert Burns, regaled the crowd with stories and insights about the bard that have been passed down through generations. As the Scottish Society is a social group comprised of those either with a Scottish heritage or who have an interest in its culture and history, they honor their heritage by celebrating traditional holidays and events. To pass their country’s vibrant cultural heritage on to the next generation, the group also provides scholarships to those wishing to learn about Scottish traditional customs, including Highland music, dance, traditions, genealogy and literature. Upcoming events include the Scottish Society’s 30th Anniversary Afternoon Tea, March 23 at the Vero Beach Garden Club, and the Kirkin’ O’ the Tartan, May 4 at Westminster Presbyterian Church. For more information, visit ScottishSocietyoftheTreasurecoast.com. <em>Photos by Joshua Kodis</em> [gallery ids="213188,213189,213190,213191,213192,213193,213194,213195,213196,213197,213198,213199,213200,213201,213202,213203,213204"]