Pipers, poets and party-goers to gather in Donegal for Rabbie Burns Weekend

Pipers, poets and party‑goers from near and far will  once again make their way to south Donegal for the  much‑loved Annual Rabbie Burns Weekend.

Taking place in Harvey’s Point, Lough Eske, and Whoriskey’s, Cashelard on January 23 and 24, the celebrations honour the  life, works and enduring spirit of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, and the deep cultural  ties between Donegal and Scotland. 

The event marks the birth date of the famed bard, and the tradition at Harvey’s Point was inspired by the  late Joe McGlone, a man who, like Burns, lived life with passion, humour and generosity. 

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The weekend opens on Friday, January 23 with  Harvey’s Highland Gathering in the Lough Eske Lounge, hosted by Burns Weekend Chairman, Richard Hurst with Musical Director, Paul Coughlan. 

Guests are invited  to share their favourite Scottish party piece, with  lively entertainment and a few surprise appearances  promised. 

Participants are invited to step into the winter wilds on Saturday morning as the community gathers at  Whoriskey’s of Cashelard for the beloved Annual Haggis Hunt. The walk sets off at 12 noon, led by  Richard Hurst, guiding attendees along a gentle path  in search of the ever‑elusive Haggis - that shy wanderer of hill and hedgerow, more often spoken of  than seen. 

When the walk winds home, Brendan and friends will welcome everyone back to Whoriskey’s, where light  refreshments, music and good craic await. 

Proceeds  will be donated to Cancer Care West, Donegal.  

On Saturday evening, the skirl of the bagpipes will greet guests arriving for the Burns Supper. Chairman Richard Hurst will lead the ceremonial Piping in of the Haggis, followed by the traditional Selkirk Grace. 

A five‑course Scottish‑themed banquet will be  served in the hotel’s Gourmet Suite overlooking Lough Eske, complete with a warming dram of whisky. The world famous Ardara Distillery is kindly sponsoring  the welcome reception and toasts.

A highlight of the evening is the rousing Address and Toast to the Haggis, delivered with all the theatrical flair the occasion deserves. 

As one guest  remarked last year: “If the idea of raising your  glass to a sheep’s stomach filled with meat seems  confusing, it all makes sense once you’ve had a few  glasses of Scotch whisky.” 

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The Address to the Haggis, the Toast to the Lassies, and the Reply from  the Lassies will be performed by special guests.  

Entertainment throughout the evening includes poetry, song and dance, with many of Burns’ best‑loved works  celebrated. Guests will then take to the floor for Scottish ceilidh dancing to the great Gary Ceilidh Band, flying in from Scotland to  perform on both Friday and Saturday nights.  

The organisers are also delighted to welcome special guests, Matt McGranahan and Seamus O'Sullivan. 

Attendees are encouraged to dress in traditional Scottish tartan. Kilts are optional but warmly  embraced, and prizes will be awarded for the Best  Dressed Lady and Best Dressed Gentleman. 

With exceptional music, fine dining and spirited dancing, the weekend promises to banish the January blues in true Highland style. 

Everyone is invited to enjoy a memorable weekend at Harvey’s Point. As Rabbie Burns himself might say, ‘We cannae wait tae see ye.’

Limited tickets are available for the Burns Supper. To book, please contact the Reservations Team at  Harvey’s Point on 074 9722208.