NEWSLETTER
Beacon, NY - The Bannerman Castle Trust is pleased to present their Inaugural Robert Burns Supper on historic Bannerman Island, Friday, July 25th from 5:30-11:00 pm. In recognition of Francis Bannerman’s Scottish Heritage and in remembrance of the Bard of Scotland Robert Burns (1759-1796), this very special fundraiser dinner event includes extraordinary food, music, poetry and conviviality for just 44 attendees. All proceeds support ongoing preservation efforts on Bannerman Island.
Although Burns Nights are generally held on or around the birthday of Robert Burns, for the Bannerman Island event, the July date was chosen to coincide with the anniversary of his burial (July 25). The first Burns Supper was held on July 21, 1801, at Burns Cottage in Alloway and was organized by nine of Robert Burns' close friends to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his death. This initial gathering is considered the genesis of the Burns Supper tradition that continues to this day. An interesting side note: Burns’ funeral procession passed by his home just as his 12th child - a son named Maxwell - was born to his beloved wife Jean Armour, on July 25, 1796.
The dinner will feature the traditional Burns Supper, accompanied by wine, cold beverages and an optional premium whisky tasting. Haggis (traditional and vegetarian) and more is on the menu! According to Bannerman Castle Trust Deputy Director Kelly Ellenwood, “you can be certain that this “king of the sausages” will be Addressed appropriately!”
The BCT’s Estuary Steward tour boat will depart the Beacon, NY Dock at 2 Red Flynn Drive at 5:30pm. The Dock is located directly across from the Beacon Metro North station. Casual or traditional dress, and comfortable shoes are recommended. After a beautiful early evening cruise through the Hudson Highlands and Hudson Valley National Heritage Area, guests will arrive at Bannerman Island at 6:00pm where they will be greeted by Hudson Highlands Pipe Band Major James Hartford, who will lead them from the Dock to the Arsenal Observation Deck for Hors d’oeuvres and cold beverages. The evening will unfold as a traditional Burns Night, filled with poetry, music, and abundant food and drink - all in the extraordinary setting of the Bannerman Residence on Bannerman Island. The RV Estuary Steward will return to Beacon Harbor at approximately 11:00pm. There is plenty of parking at the Beacon station, or take the Metro North from Grand Central and spend the weekend in beautiful Beacon, NY!
Tickets are $195; ($100 additional for optional Premium Whisky Tasting), which includes food, beverages, a full evening of entertainment, and passage on the Estuary Steward. All proceeds support ongoing Restoration Projects on Bannerman Island. NatGeo Lecturer and Scottish native Steve Blamires is your Bannerman Island Burns Night Toastmaster and keynote speaker; Bannerman Castle Trust Executive Director Neil Caplan is your Host.
A Silent Auction featuring fine art paintings of the Hudson Highlands, theater tickets, luxury hotel stays and more will be on display on Bannerman Island’s new observation deck. An optional tour of the island with Guide and Special Musical Guest Tara O’Grady will be available for those who wish to explore.
Musical Guests include Robin Sarica (violinist), Singer/Songwriter Tara O’Grady, Hudson Highlands Pipe Band Major James Hartford, and other surprise performances.
Thank you to the Burns Supper on Bannerman Island sponsors: The Pathfinder, ResortsWorld Gives, The Factory Hotel/The Dutchess Hotel & Spa Beacon, and the EASTER Foundation/Fred Osborn III and Anne Osborn.
What: Burns Supper on Bannerman Island
When: Friday, July 25, 2025, 5:30 - 11:00 pm.
The RV Estuary Steward leaves the Beacon, NY dock at 5:30 and returns at 11:00 pm
Tickets: $195; optional Premium Whisky Tasting, $100. Tickets are available online at bannermancastle.org or call (845) 831-1001
BURNS SUPPER TICKET LINK
Contact: Kelly Ellenwood at (845) 863-9964; kellenwood@bannermancastle.org
Link to images: https://photos.app.goo.gl/
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