Event celebrates the life and work of '˜Bard of Ayrshire' Rabbie Burns

Killyman & District Cultural Group hosted a well-attended celebration of the life and works of the Scottish national bard Robert (Rabbie) Burns at the Hill of The O'Neill recently.

The event, held on Friday, January 26, was supported by Mid Ulster District Council.

DUP leader Arlene Foster MLA and Cllr Kim Ashton (Chair of Mid Ulster Council) with councillors and organisers at the Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.placeholder image
DUP leader Arlene Foster MLA and Cllr Kim Ashton (Chair of Mid Ulster Council) with councillors and organisers at the Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.

The large audience in attendance, which included the Chair of Mid Ulster District Council Councillor Kim Ashton, were warmly welcomed by Kenny Montgomery, Chairman of Killyman & District Culture Group.

Guests were served a traditional Burns Night meal following the parade, piping in and Address to the Haggis. The drum major display for the event was provided by Louis Anderson (All-Ireland Champion of Champions Novice Junior Drum Major).

Wesley Ross and friends enjoying the  Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.placeholder image
Wesley Ross and friends enjoying the Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.

Several traditional toasts were offered before the Portadown Scottish Country Dancers delighted the audience with displays of traditional Scottish dance routines. The entertainment for the evening was provided by Men in Black.

The event closed with a vote of thanks by Alastair Cardwell, Vice Chairman of the Cultural Group.

Rabbie Burns was a celebrated poet and lyricist. He was known as the Bard of Ayrshire and the Ploughman Poet and is celebrated across the world.

Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Cllr Kim Ashton with guests Sandra and Wilbert Buchanan at  Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.placeholder image
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Cllr Kim Ashton with guests Sandra and Wilbert Buchanan at Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.
Patrons pictured at the  Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.placeholder image
Patrons pictured at the Killyman & District Cultural Group Burns Night at Hill of the O'Neill.
News you can trust since 1737
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice