Macdonald Pipe Band to host Robert Burns Event
Celebration includes Scottish music, poetry & a wee bit of haggis
PITTSBURGH – The Macdonald Pipe Band of Pittsburgh will celebrate Scotland's most prolific poet at its annual Robert Burns Night from 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, at Goodlander Cocktail Brewery in the East End's Larimer neighborhood.
Burns was born Jan. 25, 1759. Around the world, his birthday has become an excuse to engage in a wee bit of mid-winter revelry.
“Burns Night is a celebration of all things Scottish, and it’s a great winter blues buster," band leader Betsy Bethel-McFarland of Martins Ferry, Ohio, said. "The pipe band will perform, and there will be Burns poetry, songs, and even a taste of haggis and whisky."
The 21-and-over event is a fundraiser for the band, a nonprofit group founded in 1966 that performs at Celtic-themed events and Highland festivals throughout the region.
"We are excited to offer our Burns Night to the public at no charge. We appreciate donations and also will be selling chances on various Scottish-themed prizes," Bethel-McFarland said.
In addition, Goodlander will offer a signature Scottish cocktail, with a portion of the proceeds going to the band.
Macdonald Pipe Band historically hosted a catered Burns Supper, but post-COVID the group has opted for a less formal "pub night" event.
Band members play the Great Highland Pipes and Scottish drums and hail from throughout the tri-state. Weekly rehearsals take place Wednesdays at Bethel Presbyterian Church in Bethel Park.
The band performs in the Pittsburgh St. Patrick's Day Parade, Pittsburgh Tartan Day, the Wheeling Celtic Celebration, Ligonier Highland Games and Pittsburgh Irish Fest, among other events.
For more information or to donate, visit www.macdonaldpipeband.net.