What is Burns Night?

It's a celebration that features whisky, haggis and poetry to commemorate the life of the poet Robert Burns, born on January 25, 1759.
During this night, many Scots hold a Burns supper, with toasts and readings from Robert Burns' poems.

When? 25th January

Where? Across Edinburgh

What is Burns Supper?

Scots gather together to celebrate the life and works of the national Bard.

Suppers can be formal with a splendid celebration with ceremony and fuss, or informal with friends and family.

 

Before starting the meal, people will say Burns' The Selkirk Grace prayer, usually recited in Scots.

Some hae meat and canna eat,

And some wad eat that want it,

But we hae meat and we can eat,

And sae the Lord be thankit.

Bagpipes and Address to a Haggis

Burns Supper cannot be called such without bagpipes playing during the "haggis procession", and the interpretation of Burns' poem "Address to a Haggis" while cutting the haggis.

Then the guests will all toast to the Haggis!

 

The meal:

• Starter

  Traditional cock-a-leekie soup;

• Main course

  Haggis, neeps & tatties;

• Pudding

  Clootie Dumpling (a pudding prepared in a linen cloth) or Typsy Laird (a Scottish sherry trifle);

• Cheeseboard with bannocks (oatcakes) and tea/coffee.

Vegetarians can of course choose vegetarian haggis, while pescatarians could opt for a seafood main course such as Cullen Skink.                                         

The drink

During the night the guests can drink wine or beer, while the haggis will receive a splash of whisky sauce.

After the meal, it's time to try all the different selection of malts.

 

The Entertainment 

After the meal, people will be entertained by a singer/musician performing Burns songs (My Luve is Like a Red Red Rose; Rantin', Rovin' Robin), recital of Burns poems (Tam o' Shanter; To a Louse; For a' that and a' that) and a heart-felt story of Robert Burns' life. This is also the time for quizzes, recitations and fun competitions!

 

Toast to the Lassies & Reply to the Toast to the Lassies

This is the highlight of the night, when humorous toasts (using Burns' quotations) are made to praise the role of women. Later, women will get the chance to reply to the previous humorous toasts, using Burns' quotes too.

 

Finally

When the night is over and before everyone leaves, it's time for the  Auld Lang Syne  when everyone joins hands and sings as one.

 

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Where can I stay during Burns Night

You can book accommodations and save up to 15%.

We have selected the best luxury apartments in Edinburgh to relax in or have your own Burns Supper.