A guide to Burns Night

The first Burns Night was held on the 21st of July, 1801 at Burns Cottage on the fifth anniversary of Robert Burns’ death. What started as a way for his good friends to raise a glass in his memory has evolved and new traditions have cemented themselves.

The occasion has grown from a supper at Burns Night cottage to a celebration that spans the entirety of Scotland. So, why is Burns still commemorated more than 200 years after his passing? And how do the Scottish mark this annual day? Let our Burns Night guide tell you everything you need to know.

ROBERT BURNS

Robert Burns is a much-loved Scottish poet and lyricist who was born in 1759 and died, aged 37, in 1796. He is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland and is known the world over for his works including ‘Auld Lang Syne’ and ‘A Red, Red Rose’.

He had a humble background, growing up undertaking hard manual labour on his family’s farm. He wrote his first poem at the age of 15. His first collection, titled ‘Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect’ was released in 1786 and was a huge success.

BURNS’ POETRY

Robert Burns’ poetry was admired by the common people and Edinburgh high-society critics when it was first published, and it has been loved by many ever since. His poems cover many topics and themes including farm life, love, equality, solidarity, nature, and politics. Some of his best-known works include ‘Tam o’Shanter’, ‘To a Mouse’, and ‘Scots Wha Hae’.

BURNS NIGHT TRADITIONS

Burns Night traditions include the ‘Address to a Haggis’, a lively and poetic tribute to the haggis before it’s sliced and served. The more formal ‘Immortal Memory’ speech is also a key part, which reflects on Burns’ spirit and his contributions to Scottish culture. Then there’s the piping in the guests, The Selkirk Grace and a Toast To The Lassies, all of which are integral components of the celebrations.

BURNS NIGHT TRADITIONS

BURNS NIGHT FOOD

No Burns Night is complete without a hearty Burns Night supper, which traditionally, includes a main course of haggis, neeps, and tatties. Starters and puddings also showcase delicious Scottish fare with Cullen skink, cock-a-leekie soup, cranachan and clootie dumplings all being popular choices.

BURNS NIGHT MENU IDEAS

BURNS NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT

Burns’ poetry is at the heart of Burns Night celebrations, with it being recited and sung throughout the evening. However, music, dancing, and the sharing of stories are also commonplace. Live bands, bagpipes players and a playlist of Scottish songs all contribute to a fantastic ceilidh!

BURNS NIGHT DRESS CODE

While there’s no set dress code for Burns Night, traditional Scottish dress is often worn. For organised celebrations, formal wear is customary, and men are encouraged to wear traditional Scottish dress including a kilt, sporran and their family tartan. A traditional option for women is a kilted skirt with a blouse. For smaller or more casual events, outfits that incorporate tartan are popular: think dresses, sashes and ties. Incorporating other icons of Scotland can also add to the fun, such as with Scottie dog cufflinks or a thistle brooch.

DRINKING WHISKY

When it comes to drinks, it wouldn’t be Burns Night without a dram! The perfect whisky is often paired with each course but also goes down well as a digestif after the meal has been enjoyed.

BURNS NIGHT COCKTAILS

While traditional Burns Night celebrations often feature neat Scotch whisky, you can also incorporate Scotch into cocktails to add a modern twist to the festivities. If you want to stay on theme, try using ingredients from the region such as Scottish raspberries and orange marmalade.

SCOTTISH COCKTAILS

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