Burns Night

One of the most revered holidays in Scotland is associated with the name of a beloved poet. The works of Robert Burns are included in the list of the country’s cultural heritage. Burns Night is not only in the poet’s homeland but also by admirers of the talented writer in different parts of the world.

History

The idea to arrange a dinner in honor of Robert Burns came to his close friends. They got together five years after his death and decided to have a memorial dinner on his birthday. Burns Night was first in a close circle by the poet’s relatives in 1801.

A few years later, a dinner in honor of the Scottish poet turned into a national evening of remembrance. Solemn events are held at the state level, but this does not prevent the Scots from gathering at the family table and remembering the works of their favorite bard.

For a dinner in honor of Burns, the national dish is prepared – haggis (a savory pudding made from a sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs) and Scotch whisky. During the evening, the poems of the poet are recited, and the holiday ends with the traditional herring.

Useful Facts

• No Burns Night is complete without reading the poet’s famous work, “Address to a Haggis”.
• Every evening features bagpipe music; it does not have to be live, as many Scots simply play national melodies.
• In Scotland, Robert Burns is considered not just a talented poet but a national hero.
• Admirers of the poet’s work have not abandoned the tradition even during a global pandemic. The celebration was moved online.

How to Celebrate

In Scotland, the holiday follows a traditional scenario. The evening begins with a welcoming speech, followed by a feast with the sounds of bagpipes, reading Burns’ poems, and dancing. Men must wear a kilt to the event, while the younger generation can replace it with a striped ribbon thrown over the shoulder.

Before serving the main course, the host plunges a knife into the haggis and reads the poem/excerpt “Address to a Haggis”.

You can honor the memory of the great Burns without the national Scottish dishes. Simply arrange an evening with friends, read the works of the bard, and share his biography.

When is Burns Night in 2025?

Burns Night is observed on January 25 each year.

Observations