Five years after the death of Scottish bard Robert Burns in 1796, a group of friends gathered on his birthday (January 25) to celebrate his life. Today, the tradition persists and often involves haggis, bagpipes, recitations of poetry, drinking songs, revelry, and, of course, copious Scotch whisky. If you'd like to witness the unusual ritual for yourself, here are five events where you can participate in the commemoration of Burns' life. For more food and drink events, check out our full food and drink calendar.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16
Big Time Brewery Past Event Like List
Raise a pint to the "Ploughman Poet" and sing along to rousing Scottish drinking songs performed by vocal group whateverandeveramen.
University District

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19
Southpaw Past Event Like List
James Beard Award–winning chef John Sundstrom of Lark, Southpaw, and Slab will prepare an exclusive menu with his take on the Scottish delicacy that is haggis, and the choral project whateverandeveramen. will sing the poetry of Burns along with some traditional drinking songs.
Capitol Hill

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
The Anderson School Past Event Like List
Do Rabbie Burns proud by savoring Scotch, including Auchentoshan American Oak, Bowmore 12 year, Laphroaig 10 year, Bowmore 15 Year Darkest, and Laphroaig Lore, paired with a menu created by the McMenamins Anderson School chefs.
Bothell

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26
The Royal Room Past Event Like List
Battle your mid-winter slump with a boisterous evening of bagpipe music, poetry, haggis, whiskey, and other delights.
Columbia City

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28
The Growler Guys Past Event Like List
The Growler Guys' free celebration will feature a bona fide Burns lookalike performing the lyricist/poet's songs and poetry, complete with kilt and bagpipes. While you enjoy the entertainment, throw back some imported Scottish ales from Traquair House Brewery, including their house ale and Jacobite ale.
Wedgwood