Celebrating Robert Burns

Dancers and musicians from the Central Missouri Celtic Arts Association perform a traditional Scottish dance during the Burns Night celebration at Riechmann Indoor Pavilion on Sunday. The association meets on the second Friday of each month at the First Christian Church to dance and socialize.   ¦  Ben Dillon

COLUMBIA — Adopting a practice that dates back to the early 19th century, Art Smith hosted the premier "Burns Night Columbia" on Sunday at the Riechmann Pavilion in Stephens Lake Park. The event was a celebration in memory of the Scottish poet Robert Burns, often memorialized throughout Scotland near his birthday of Jan. 25. Guests of the event were treated to readings of Burns' poetry, a four-course Scottish meal, and presentations of traditional music and dance. Next year marks Burns' 250th birthday, a momentous occasion that Smith hopes to celebrate with another Burns Night.