Burns Night - January 25th

Burns Night is a celebration of the life and poetry of the Scottish poet Robert Burns, widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. It is celebrated on or around Burns' birthday, January 25th. The evening typically involves a Burns supper, a gathering with specific traditions.

Burns Supper Traditions

A traditional Burns supper follows a specific format:

• The Selkirk Grace: A short prayer or blessing, traditionally said before the meal.
• The Piping in of the Haggis: The haggis (a savory pudding containing sheep's pluck, minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and stock, traditionally encased in the animal's stomach) is brought in with bagpipes playing.
• Address to a Haggis: A humorous and dramatic recitation of Burns' poem "Address to a Haggis," often performed with great enthusiasm and a ceremonial stabbing of the haggis.
• The Meal: The supper typically includes haggis, neeps (mashed turnips), and tatties (mashed potatoes), often accompanied by Scotch whisky.
• The Immortal Memory: A speech given in tribute to Burns' life and work.
• The Toast to the Lassies: A light-hearted and often humorous speech from a male guest commenting on women.
• The Reply from the Lassies: A response from a female guest, often with witty remarks.
• Readings and Performances: Guests often recite Burns' poems and sing his songs.

Learn More About Burns Night:

• Wikipedia: Burns Night