This year’s Robbie Burns day was one for the history books—or at least the record books. Burns was honoured in a unique way on January 25, with a marathon reading of his poetry and songs. The clock was stopped at 4:09:24, making it a world record set here at SFU Vancouver.

“SFU is pleased to celebrate its link to Scotland and its Scottish heritage by honouring Robert Burns,” said SFU President Andrew Petter. “He was a democrat and a supporter of individual rights,” he continued, “who believed in the power of communities to effect change.”

The morning began with a procession, lead by Petter and student piper Aiden Caves. The bagpipes set the tone as the group took over the Teck Gallery at Harbour Centre.

In opening, the “Address to a Haggis” was performed by an animated David Lunny, President of the St. Andrews and Caledonian Society. With his Scottish brogue in tact, Lunny recited the famous Burns poem, a ceremony typical at Burns suppers. Once the poem was performed and the Scottish flag waved, he cut into the traditional “peasant” dish.

The clock was officially started at 8:24 a.m., as Petter read the Burns favourite, “A Man’s a Man for A’ That.” The marathon was continued by others, including Vancouver Whitecaps President Bob Lenarduzzi, and Bard on the Beach Artistic Director Christopher Gaze. One special reader, Teresa Margaret King, is a blood relative of Burns himself.

The marathon gained reach far beyond Vancouver, with participants’ skyping in from Scotland. Faculty and students from the Centre for Robert Burns Studies at the University of Glasgow sang and read some of their favourite Burns pieces.

Readers and singers filed in throughout the day, each getting a five-minute turn with the microphone. Some lucky visitors had their first taste of haggis, including Bob Lenarduzzi (click here to watch the full video). The recital continued until 12:33, when it closed with a final, group song.

Leith Davis, Director for SFU’s Centre for Scottish Studies, was thrilled by the incredible support, which was not limited to the Scottish community. For Davis, it is clear that “Burns’ message of community and democracy for all is still very alive today.”

The Burns Day celebration then turned from song to dance, as traditional Scottish dancers took over the floor of the Harbour Centre atrium. The day was wonderfully executed, a true tribute to Burns’ work and accomplishments.

Who is Robert Burns?

Robert Burns was a Scottish poet and lyricist whose work has won the hearts of Scots across the globe. He is also remembered for his commitment to democracy, community, and individual rights. His work has made him an icon in Scottish culture, earning him the title “the national poet of Scotland.”

Robbie Burns Day is traditionally celebrated annually, on or around his birthday, January 25. Celebrations often include the Burns supper, where the meal commences after the cutting of the haggis and recitation of a poem. 

Click here to watch a clip from the event on Breakfast Television, or see the photo gallery on Facebook.