On January 28th, 2026, the Simon Fraser University Research Centre for Scottish Studies held, "A Celebration for Robert Burns" featuring vegan haggis, live music, and verse. Centre Director, professor Leith Davis, organized and led the event as part of her SFU English course, ENGL 832: Studies in the 18th century.

The event began with Scottish music performed by three members of the Sybaritic String Band, Sheila Allan, Scott Alpen, and Rob McGregor. Then, a haggis procession took place in the halls of the sixth floor of the academic quadrangle at SFU's Burnaby campus. This was followed by the "Address To A Haggis", read by Davis and the saying of the Selkirk Grace, by Allan. 

After a tasting of the haggis and biscuits, Davis gave "The Immortal Memory" speech or toast, which is considered the central toast of any Burns night. It focuses on the Scottish bard's life and work, and why he should be celebrated and remain immortal. McGregor followed this speech with a Toast to the Human and the Non-Human. 

What follows is a video clip of Scottish music at the start of the event and McGregor's toast.

The event closed with some additional music, including the songs, "Scots Wha Hae" (lyrics written by Robert Burns in 1793), "Wild Mountain Thyme", and "Auld Lang Syne" (Robert Burns poem written in 1788 and later set to music).

Please enjoy the additional photos that follow and look for more exclusive video clips from the celebration on our Instagram Stories in the coming days.