Burns Night in Scotland: Traditions, Menu and Where to Go

Every January 25th, the Burns Night in Scotland Robert Burns, the national poet, was born on this day in 1759. Around haggis, poems, and a glass of whisky, Scots share a Burns Supper, with family, friends, or at the pub. Having lived in Edinburgh since 2012, we explain how the evening unfolds and the best places to experience it.

Who was Robert Burns?

Robert Burns was born in Alloway, Ayrshire, in southwest Scotland. The son of a farmer, he wrote poems and songs in Scots, the vernacular of the Lowlands, from a very young age. He died in Dumfries in 1796, at only 37 years old.

His writings, however, remain known throughout the world. In fact, the world sings one of his songs every New Year: "Auld Lang Syne," which Burns collected and rewrote. "Tam o' Shanter" and "To a Mouse" are also among his most famous poems.

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The origins of Burns Night in Scotland

The first Burns Supper took place in July 1801 at the poet's birthplace in Alloway. Nine of his friends gathered there to mark the fifth anniversary of his death. They enjoyed the evening so much that they decided to hold it annually, and later to fix it on his birthday.

Since then, the tradition has spread around the world. In Scotland, however, it remains a highlight of winter, between Hogmanay and spring. We also feature it in our guide to Scottish traditions.

The order of events at a Burns Supper

Each evening follows a specific order, which the hosts adapt in their own way.

• First, a guest recites the Selkirk Grace, a short grace in Scots.
• Then, the haggis enters the room to the sound of bagpipes.
• A guest then reads the Address to a Haggis, then cuts into the haggis with a knife.
• After the meal, a speaker pays tribute to the poet in the Immortal Memory.
• A toast to the ladies and the response from the guests then livened up the evening.
• Finally, everyone sings Auld Lang Syne, in a circle with arms crossed.

What do people eat for Burns Night in Scotland?

Haggis, of course, remains the star of the meal. It's served with neeps and tatties, which are a mixture of mashed swede and mashed potatoes. As a starter, many families also offer cock-a-leekie soup, made with chicken and leeks.

Cranachan, made with cream, raspberries, oats, and whisky, often finishes the meal. There's also a vegetarian version of haggis, very common in restaurants. Find all these dishes in our guide to... Scottish culinary specialties.

Where to celebrate Burns Night in Scotland?

Alloway, the poet's hometown

At Alloway, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum It brings together his birthplace, a museum, and Alloway Church, the setting for Tam o' Shanter. A 500-meter footpath connects the different sites. It's the perfect place to learn about the man before celebrating his birthday.

Dumfries, Burns' final resting place

Burns spent his final years in Dumfries. His house and mausoleum, located in St. Michael's Churchyard, can be visited there. The Big Burns Supper festival, featuring concerts, performances, and a carnival, is also usually held there at the end of January.

Edinburgh and Glasgow

In both major cities, many restaurants, hotels, and pubs host a Burns Supper, often followed by a ceilidh. Book several weeks in advance. To extend the evening, choose one of our traditional pubs of Edinburgh.

Our tips for experiencing Burns Night in Scotland

• Book your dinner early: the best tables are fully booked from the beginning of January.
• Learn the first verse of Auld Lang Syne, which everyone sings at the end.
• A kilt is not mandatory, but a smart outfit is still appreciated.
• Pack warm clothes: in January, Edinburgh has barely eight hours of daylight.
• Also try the local whisky, for example during a visit to distilleries of Scotland.

Burns Night combines perfectly with a winter stay. Consult our guide to Scotland in winter to prepare for your days.

Frequently asked questions about Burns Night in Scotland

What is the date of Burns Night in Scotland?

January 25th is Robert Burns' birthday. In 2027, it falls on a Monday. Many parties therefore also take place on the preceding or following weekend.

What is a Burns Supper?

This is the Burns Night dinner. It combines a meal centered around haggis, poems by Burns, speeches and songs.

Should one wear a kilt?

No. Some guests wear a kilt or tartan, but classic evening wear is perfectly acceptable.

Is haggis mandatory?

The traditional dish remains. However, most restaurants also offer a vegetarian haggis.

Why do we sing Auld Lang Syne?

Burns collected and rewrote this old Scottish song in 1788. It celebrates friendship and thus closes the evening, as on New Year's Day.

Celebrate Burns Night in Scotland with Brightside Travel

Our team lives in Edinburgh and knows the most authentic nights out. We can book your Burns Supper and include it in a tailor-made trip to Scotland. For a New Year's getaway, also check out our guide to...’Hogmanay in Edinburgh.

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