By Mary Callater
As Burns Night approaches, I’m delighted to introduce this cherished Scottish tradition to our readers from afar. Held every January 25th, we celebrate the life and works of our national poet, Robert Burns, with an evening of culinary delights, poetry, and camaraderie.
The tradition dates back to 1801 when nine of Burns’ friends gathered at his cottage in Alloway to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his death1. By 1802, the Greenock Ayrshire Society began holding annual suppers, and by 1815, it had taken root in Edinburgh, because we know that Sir Walter Scott held a formal event to mark the occasion.
The centrepiece of the evening is the famous haggis, traditionally accompanied by neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). Haggis, a savoury pudding of sheep’s offal, oatmeal, and spices, is eaten year-round but elevated to a special status during Burns Night.
The dish is ceremoniously “piped into the room” by bagpipes and addressed with Burns’ poem “Address to a Haggis”. This ceremony transforms a simple meal into a memorable cultural experience that follows a broadly traditional script. You’ll hear the “Immortal Memory” speech honouring Burns, followed by the humorous “Toast to the Lassies” and “Reply from the Lassies”. These traditions, along with recitations of Burns’ poetry, have been part of the celebration for generations.
Many of you will be glad to know that it’s commonly held in Scotland that no Burns Night is complete without whisky, the perfect accompaniment to the evening’s festivities. As the night concludes, guests join hands to sing “Auld Lang Syne,” capturing the spirit of friendship and remembrance central to the event. Over the years, Burns Suppers have spread globally, carried by Scottish emigrants. Today, they’re celebrated worldwide, ranging from formal affairs to casual gatherings. While the format may vary, the core elements remain: traditional Scottish fare, Burns’ poetry, and a celebration of Scottish heritage.
If your event is quite a formal affair you may want to check with the organiser if there is a dress code. Although the spirit of Burns Suppers would encourage a relaxed evening of entertainment where guests are warmly welcomed, some events do have a degree of formality with many Scots electing (and others) to wear highland dress or formal wear.
In conclusion, if you get the chance to attend a Burns Supper I encourage you to embrace the tradition, and I feel sure it will be a memorable experience. It’s more than just a dinner – it’s an immersion into the heart of Scottish culture, offering a warm welcome to newcomers and a chance to connect with the rich tapestry of Scottish history and literature.
