From the very start of the 20th century and into the 1960s, there was a large number of Scots settling in Vancouver. Today, the rate is beginning to pick up again.

“Although Scottish immigration seemed to have slowed down for a few decades, we’re noticing more new immigrants from Scotland of late than we have for a long time,” says Carracher.

With a substantial number of Scots residing in Vancouver and British Columbia, there are many celebrations put on by the community, including the B.C. Highland Games and Scottish Festival, which takes place every June at Coquitlam’s Percy Perry Stadium.

“It’s a great full day of everything Scottish: from Highland dancing and Royal Scottish country dancing, to piping and drumming competitions, to the Heavy Events and traditional Scottish food like meat pies and haggis,” explains Carracher.

A poet’s legacy

Locally, Scottish people participate in activities that illustrate their culture, such as the celebrated birthday of revered poet Robbie Burns, on Jan. 25.

“Many people in Vancouver hold a Burns Supper and invite family and friends over for a meal and a celebration of togetherness,” says Carracher. “A lot of people act out Burns’ poems and toasts as they bring in the haggis, slice it and enjoy it.”

The way events like Robbie Burns Day are celebrated in British Columbia is a fair representation of the way they are intended to be celebrated in Scottish culture, says Carracher.

Quickly approaching, Robbie Burns Day is significant for Scots, as Burns is viewed as a beloved and respected icon in Scottish history.

“Robbie Burns was a nonconformist genius who spoke for the everyman,” says Carracher. “He could hold his own conversing with the Scottish elite of the day.”

However, the conversationalist was also a rebel against the same elite.

“He championed freedom and equality for all. Perhaps more than his brilliance with verse, Burns stands tall in the hearts and minds of all Scots as a symbol of freedom and dignity for the less fortunate,” Carracher adds.

Culture carried across the sea

The Scottish cultural icon makes an impact on the hearts of Scots in the homeland, as well as with Scots in British Columbia; but it is difficult to compare the similarities and differences in celebration and appreciation that occur in each place.

“Burns is more a part of the fabric of Scotland; [he] is absolutely recognized and remembered in a big way,” says Carracher.

The enthusiasm for Robbie Burns Day in Vancouver does in fact mimic the passion with which it is celebrated in Scotland.

“Here, so far away, it’s still a great reason to remember Burns and Scotland, and the family and friends still there. And to get together, have fun and celebrate togetherness,” says Carracher.

The tradition of this celebration ties into Scottish identity. According to Carracher, a Scot is friendly and welcoming to anyone he or she encounters. This identity is not only represented locally by the Scottish community, but is also connected in part to Canadian culture.

“Scots don’t complain about what needs to be done. They do it. And they don’t ask for thanks. In many ways, I’d say that’s very Canadian,” says Carracher.

For more information, visit www.scottishculturalcentre.com.