From traditional ballads and romantic songs to humorous satires and thought-provoking poems, Scotland's national bard Robert Burns composed some of the world's most instantly recognisable lines of poetry and song lyrics, including Auld Lang Syne which is sang around the world each January 1st as the bells ring to mark the new year.
Every year Scots and Scots-at-heart around the world gather to celebrate the great poet's life and works with feasting, dancing and recitals. This annual tradition known as Burns Night takes place on January 25th, Robert Burns’ birthday.
Marked by a jam-packed programme of celebrations across the country, it's a day that combines some of Scotland's most iconic cultures and traditions: haggis, whisky, ceilidh dancing, songs, poetry and pageantry, but most importantly - good company and lots of fun.
If you're visiting Scotland at a different time of year and won't be here for Burns Night, don't worry - this tradition can be celebrated at any time! The drama and excitement of Burns is perfect for gala dinners and can immerse your guests in the history and unique spirit of Scotland.
If you want to wow your guests, dress them in Tartan and experience the theatre of a haggis being piped into dinner, then why not organise your own Burns Supper?
Address to the Haggis
The highlight for many of Burns Night is the Address to the Haggis. This uniquely Scottish tradition involves bagpipes, a steaming haggis, dramatic poetry and a dagger! Read on as we help you understand more about this very particular Scottish tradition!
Piping in the haggis
Piping in the haggis, Burns Supper
The audience should rise to their feet to greet the 'great chieftain o' the puddin' race' as it is ceremoniously piped in. At traditional Burns Suppers, the chef follows the piper into the room, carrying the haggis in on a silver platter. Sometimes it will be the piper that addresses the haggis, or another selected speaker.
Addressing the haggis
Addressing the haggis, Burns Supper
The speaker now delivers a rousing rendition of Burns' Address to a Haggis. After apologising for 'killing' the haggis, he or she will then dramatically plunge a knife into the haggis. The meaty pudding is sliced open during the line 'An' cut you up wi' ready slight' which translates as 'and cut you up with skill'. As the speaker recites the final lines of the poem, the platter is raised above their head whilst saying the exultant words 'Gie her a Haggis!' to rapturous applause.
Toast to the haggis
Toasting the haggis, Burns Supper
The speaker then calls for the guests to toast the haggis and everyone, including the chef, raises their glasses and shouts 'The Haggis' before enjoying a dram. The haggis is then piped back out to be prepared for dinner. (It is worth noting that there is usually a ceremonial haggis used for the entertainment and another haggis for dinner!)
Kilt hire
Auld Lang Syne, Burns Supper
If you want to truly immerse your guests in Scottish culture, then arrange to have them dressed in traditional Scottish dress. This means kilt outfits for gentlemen and tartan sashes for ladies. Sizes and measurements can be arranged before the event, with guests picking up their outfit prior to the event. A fun element is a demonstration in how a kilt should be worn - you don't want your kilt to be too long or too short - or on the wrong way around!
The night is sure to be one of the most memorable moments of your stay in Scotland!