Burns Night celebrates the life and poetry of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and is held annually on his birthday, 25th January. The traditional celebration is known as a Burns supper, and celebrates Burns’ contribution to Scottish culture, with his most well known work being Auld Lang Syne, which was based on a traditional Scottish folk song and is now used by many during New Year’s celebrations.
The first Burns supper took place in 1801 on the fifth anniversary of Burns’ death, 21st July. A group of the late poet’s friends decided to get together to offer tribute to him. Later that year the first Burns club was founded by a group of merchants, who decided to honour Burns on what they thought was his birthday, 29th January 1802. They later realised this was incorrect, and Burns Night has taken place on the poet’s actual birthday ever since.
Burns suppers can be held as formal events, with a traditional running order, though many families also hold informal celebrations in their own homes to honour the poet.
Man playing bagpipes in full traditional Scottish attire
The highlight of the evening for many is the arrival of the haggis, where guests will listen to Address to a haggis before enjoying their meal. Traditional Scottish food is served, with the main meal being haggis with neeps (mashed swede) and tatties (mashed potatoes). Scotch whisky is traditionally served alongside, while bagpipes or traditional Scottish music is played.
One person traditionally takes the role of Master of Ceremonies, and will lead the celebrations. Burns’ poetry is recited and his songs are sung, and usually someone makes a speech honouring him and his contribution to Scottish culture. There is then a “Toast to the lassies”, and a “Reply to the toast to the lassies”, where a male speaker will make a speech gently mocking women, to which a woman then replies with her own speech gently mocking men. These speeches are meant to be good natured with the aim to amuse both sides of the audience.
There may then be a final song or reading, and sometimes traditional Scottish dancing known as ceilidh. Everyone is then thanked for the evening, and then a round of Auld Lang Syne traditionally closes the supper.
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