What is Burns Night and why is it celebrated?

Burns Night is a Scottish celebration of the life and works of Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, on January 25th: 

  • Why celebrate Burns Night?

    Burns was a passionate Scot who wrote poems, songs, and satires that captured the hopes and struggles of the less privileged. His work is still relevant today, and he's considered one of the most prominent poets to write in the Scots dialect. 

  • How is Burns Night celebrated?

    The main celebration is a Burns Supper, where people gather to eat, drink, and recite Burns's works: 
    • Food and drink: Traditional Scottish fare like haggis, neeps (turnips), and tatties (potatoes) are eaten, along with whisky. 
    • Recitation: The evening usually starts with the recitation of Burns's poem, "Address to a Haggis". Other poems and speeches may also be recited. 
    • Toasts: Toasts are made to the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns. 
    • Ceilidhs: Ceilidhs, or traditional Scottish dancing, may take place. 
    • Bagpipes: Traditional Scottish music played on bagpipes may be played. 

  • When and where to celebrate

    Burns Suppers can be held anywhere, but they're most common in Scotland in late January. You can attend a large, formal Burns Supper, or host your own at home. 

  • History

    The first Burns Supper was held in 1801 in Burns Cottage, Alloway, by the Reverend Hamilton Paul. The traditions of today have developed since then.