Sharpe House presents its Annual Robert Burns Night

Photo byKim McKinney

"O my Luve is like a red, red rose
That’s newly sprung in June;
O my Luve is like the melody
That’s sweetly played in tune …" - Robert Burns

The sound of bagpipes will greet guests around 6 p.m. on Saturday night, January 21,2023, at the Statesville Civic Center, as the Historic Sharpe House presents its annual Robert Burns Night.

Executive Director of the Historic Sharpe House, Keith Rhyne, is known for his elegant events. This promises to be no exception.

Rhyne says "Many places host Burns Night dinners, all around the world. Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Poet, wrote the words to Auld Lang Syne that all of us have sang at least once on New Year’s Eve. They have been celebrated since 1801, and are immensely popular."

Burns Night began at the Sharpe House a few years ago. The the event's popularity outgrew the space, moving the event next door to Statesville's Civic Center.

Executed in the traditional Sharpe House style, guests will be served by liveried footmen. The dining room will reflect the essence of a Scottish Great Hall.

Traditional Scottish fare will be served, including a food many associate with Scotland, haggis. A buffet will be served that will include entrees of Highland Beef Stew seasoned with an herb blend, roasted salmon with a lemon tarragon sauce, and Scottish Howtowdie Chicken. They will be complimented by delicious Scottish side dishes.

Live music will be provided by Veda Bafford and Celtic Echoes. There will be readings of some of Burn’s favorite works.

Afterward a buffet of desserts created by the crew at The Historic Sharpe House, will be served.

A silent auction will raise funds for the Sharpe House and will include items from various supporter and businesses. It will also include popular Sharpe House dessert items, packaged to take home.

Tickets will remain on sale through Friday at 3 p.m. through Eventbrite. Prices vary by youth/adult, vegetarian or full buffet, and the beverage package chosen.

The Statesville Civic Center is located at 300 South Center St. in downtown Statesville.

The Historic Sharpe House was the Victorian era home of former Statesville Mayor Silas Sharpe and is now a venue that holds specials events like teas, weddings, and receptions. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.