A Night Like No Other: Burns Night

A traditional Burns Night supper is guaranteed to provide a feast of haggis, neeps & tatties, washed down with some whisky and maybe even a line or two of poetry. But what’s Burns Night all about, and why do people celebrate it in Scotland? Here's all you need to know about this unique celebration on 25th January every year.

What is Burns Night?

Put simply, it’s a celebration of the life and work of Scottish poet Robert Burns, who died in 1796. The annual event was originally on July 21st – the date of Burns’ death, but now it’s celebrated on January 25th, which is the poet’s birthday.  

What’s on a Burns Supper Menu?

If you’re going to follow tradition, then you’d usually serve up a course of soup – typically Scotch broth or Cullen skink, followed by a main course of haggis, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). The ‘entrance’ of the haggis is the big event here, all guests stand up as the plate is ceremoniously brought into the room accompanied by bagpipes. (Of course, if you’re just cooking a meal for a few friends at home, this kind of fanfare isn’t exactly necessary.)

Once the meal is on the table, the host addresses the haggis with Robert Burns’ poem Address To A Haggis. It is then sliced opened and served with neeps and tatties, as well as a whisky toast. And if you can still move after all the food and drink, there’s often a ceilidh or just some dancing to finish the night off.

Who was Robbie Burns?

Also known as the Bard of Ayrshire, Robert Burns is widely regarded as Scotland’s national poet. He’s best known for his work in the Scottish language, although many of his poems have been translated into English with a light Scots dialect so they can be more widely read.

His most famous works include Auld Lang Syne, Ae Fond Kiss, Scots Wha Hae, A Red, Red Rose, A Man’s a Man for A’ That and Tam o’ Shanter. He became a great source of inspiration to the founders of both liberalism and socialism after his death in 1796.

Although Burns didn’t actually write Auld Lang Syne, he was the first person to write this old Scottish song down in the late 1700s, saying he heard it from an old man. The title translates as ‘old long since’ – basically meaning ‘a long time ago’ or ‘days gone by’. For auld lang syne therefore means something along the lines of ‘for old times’ sake’.

The song is all about preserving old friendships and looking back over the years.

This is why it is often sung on New Year’s Eve, as it encourages people to remember those who mean the most to them and not to forget their friends of the past as they move forward into the New Year.

What’s happening in the Strathspey Valley this Burns Night?

In normal times, there would be multiple venues all around Scotland hosting Burns Night celebrations. We’d usually tell you to check out the local village halls, such as Boat of Garten and Kincraig, whose annual celebrations involve plenty of food, music, dancing and poetry.  

Unfortunately, this year the pandemic has put another stop to large gatherings. So, what can you do if you want to celebrate on 25th January? We’ve got some recommendations below.

Burns Night: Online

Join the Nest Collective online for a night bedecked in tartan and tam o’shanters, with whisky flowing and floorboards shaking, all in celebration of Scotland’s favourite son, Robert Burns. Dance along at home to a live ceilidh band (with demonstration dancers!), listen to contributions from celebrated musicians & invited guests, and enjoy the Burns ceremony itself. Free to join - more info here. 

VisitScotland presents: Burns Night Party 

This Spotify playlist has been created specially to accompany your Burns Night supper. Tune in while you tuck into your haggis, for over two hours of Scottish music from The Proclaimers, Paolo Nutini, The Jesus and Mary Chain and many more. It may not be a full pipe band, but it’s guaranteed to make you feel like you’re up here in Scotland. 

Head to The Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore

While there isn’t an official Burns Night party happening this year, the Old Bridge Inn has a huge selection of whiskies, on open fire, and plenty of space for merriment. Why not head to our favourite pub for a dram or two, with a copy of ‘My Heart is in the Highlands’ for some merry poetry recitals with loved ones. 

Trace Burns’ footsteps in the Highlands

If you don’t fancy a boozy Burns Night supper, you could plan something a little more active and try tracing Burns’ footsteps up here in the snow-capped hills. In his poem, My Heart’s in the Highlands, he finds it hard to leave the highlands, especially the mountains ‘high-cover’d with snow’. Head for one of the many mountains and hills in the area and capture his adventurous outlook and love of wildlife.