Celebrate Burns Supper January 25th

A Burns Supper is a celebration of the life and poetry of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. These suppers are a cherished tradition, filled with food, drink, poetry, and camaraderie.

History of Burns Supper

The first Burns Supper was held in 1801, five years after Burns’ death, by a group of his friends. They gathered to celebrate his memory and works, starting a tradition that has continued for over two centuries.

When is Burns Supper Celebrated?

Burns Suppers are typically held on or near January 25th, Robert Burns’ birthday. This date is also known as Burns Night or Robert Burns Day.

How We Celebrate Burns Supper

A traditional Burns Supper follows a set order of events:

The Selkirk Grace: A traditional prayer is said before the meal.

The Meal: The centerpiece is haggis, a savory pudding, served with mashed potatoes (“tatties”) and turnips (“neeps”). Other courses may include Scotch broth, Cullen skink, or roast beef.

Address to a Haggis: A dramatic recitation of Burns’ poem “Address to a Haggis” takes place, often with the haggis being ceremoniously cut open.

The Immortal Memory: A speech is given, celebrating Burns’ life and works.

Toasts: Toasts are made to various figures, including the Lassies (women) and the Laddies (men).

Readings and Songs: Guests recite Burns’ poems and sing his songs.

Auld Lang Syne: The evening concludes with everyone singing “Auld Lang Syne.”

Why We Celebrate Burns Supper

Burns Suppers are a way to honor Robert Burns’ legacy and celebrate Scottish culture. They are a time for friends and family to come together, enjoy good food and drink, and appreciate the power of poetry and song.

 Burns Supper Quotes

• “Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it; But we hae meat, and we can eat, Sae let the Lord be thankit.” – Selkirk Grace   
• “O wad some Power the giftie gie us To see oursels as ithers see us!” – To a Louse
• “A man’s a man for a’ that.” – For A’ That
• “The best-laid schemes o’ mice an’ men Gang aft agley.” – To a Mouse
• “Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o’ the puddin’-race!” – Address to a Haggis
• “Auld Lang Syne” – Auld Lang Syne
• “Sweetest flower that ever grew.” – My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose
• “O, my luve is like a red, red rose.” – My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose
• “Till a’ the seas gang dry, my dear, And the rocks melt wi’ the sun.” – My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose
• “For a’ that and a’ that, It’s comin’ yet, for a’ that, That man to man, the world o’er, Shall brothers be for a’ that.” – For A’ That
• “The rank is but the guinea’s stamp, The man’s the gowd for a’ that.” – For A’ That
• “O, were my love yon red, red rose That grows upon the castle wa’; And I a drap o’ dew frae heaven, To fa’ upon that bonie tree!” – Red, Red Rose
• “My heart’s in the Highlands, my heart is not here.” – My Heart’s in the Highlands
• “Gie me ae spark o’ Nature’s fire, That’s a’ the learning I desire.” – Epistle to Davie, a Brother Poet
• “To see her is to love her, And love but her for ever.” – Ae Fond Kiss
• “Ae fond kiss, and then we sever; Ae fareweel, alas, for ever!” – Ae Fond Kiss
• “Had we never lov’d sae kindly, Had we never lov’d sae blindly, Never met – or never parted, We had ne’er been broken-hearted.” – Ae Fond Kiss   
• “O, the bonie lassies o’ Alloway!” – Tam o’ Shanter
• “Now, Tam! o’ a’ the human race Thou art the wisest o’ thy kin.” – Tam o’ Shanter
• “Freedom and whisky gang thegither.” – The Author’s Earnest Cry and Prayer

 Burns Supper Messages

• “Happy Burns Night! Wishing you a night filled with haggis, poetry, and good company.”
• “Celebrating the life and works of the Bard. Sláinte!”
• “May your Burns Supper be warm and filled with laughter.”
• “Here’s to Rabbie Burns, a true Scottish legend!”
• “Enjoy the feast and the festivities. Happy Burns Night!”
• “Raise a glass to the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns.”
• “Wishing you a wee bit o’ Scotland on this special night.”
• “May your haggis be delicious and your whisky be smooth.”
• “Let the poetry and music fill your heart with joy.”
• “Happy Burns Night! May your evening be as memorable as Burns’ poetry.”
• “Celebrating the spirit of Scotland and the genius of Robert Burns.”
• “May your Burns Supper be a night to remember.”
• “Here’s to good friends, good food, and good times. Happy Burns Night!”
• “Wishing you a night of laughter, song, and Scottish cheer.”
• “May the words of Burns inspire you and the warmth of the evening embrace you.”
• “Happy Burns Night! May your celebrations be as lively as Burns’ poetry.”
• “Toasting to the Bard and the traditions that bring us together.”
• “May your Burns Supper be a celebration of all things Scottish.”
• “Wishing you a night filled with the magic of Burns’ words.”
• “Happy Burns Night! May your evening be as unforgettable as the man himself.”

 Burns Supper Wishes

• “Wishing you a Burns Night filled with laughter, good company, and delicious food.”
• “May your celebration of Robert Burns be a joyous and memorable occasion.”
• “Hoping you have a wonderful Burns Supper, filled with Scottish spirit and cheer.”
• “May your night be filled with the warmth of friendship and the beauty of Burns’ poetry.”
• “Wishing you a Burns Night that is as special as the man we celebrate.”
• “May your toast to the Immortal Memory be heartfelt and your evening filled with joy.”
• “Hoping you have a fantastic Burns Supper, with plenty of haggis and whisky to go around.”
• “May your Burns Night be a celebration of Scottish culture and tradition.”
• “Wishing you a night of music, poetry, and good company as we honor Robert Burns.”
• “May your Burns Supper be a time to connect with friends and appreciate the genius of the Bard.”
• “Hoping you have a truly Scottish Burns Night, filled with all the traditional delights.”
• “May your celebration of Burns be a night to remember, with laughter and good cheer.”
• “Wishing you a Burns Supper that is both fun and meaningful, honoring the legacy of Burns.”
• “May your evening be filled with the spirit of Scotland and the words of its beloved poet.”
• “Hoping you have a magical Burns Night, with all the trimmings and plenty of good cheer.”
• “May your Burns Supper be a time to celebrate friendship, poetry, and the Scottish spirit.”
• “Wishing you a night of warmth, laughter, and the joy of sharing in a cherished tradition.”
• “May your Burns Night be a celebration of all that is great about Scotland and its culture.”
• “Hoping you have a Burns Supper that is as unforgettable as the works of Robert Burns.”
• “Wishing you a Burns Night filled with the magic of poetry, the warmth of friendship, and the joy of celebration.”

 Burns Supper Greetings

• “Happy Burns Night! Wishing you a grand celebration filled with haggis, poetry, and good company.”
• “Sláinte! Here’s to a wonderful Burns Supper and a celebration of Scotland’s Bard.”
• “May your Burns Night be filled with laughter, warmth, and the spirit of Robert Burns.”
• “Happy Robert Burns Day! Wishing you a night of Scottish cheer and festivities.”
• “Enjoy your Burns Supper! May the haggis be delicious and the company merry.”
• “Cheers to Rabbie Burns! Wishing you a memorable Burns Night celebration.”
• “Happy Burns Night! May your evening be as lively and inspiring as Burns’ poetry.”
• “Here’s to a fantastic Burns Supper! May your night be filled with Scottish tradition and fun.”
• “Wishing you a delightful Burns Night, celebrating the life and works of the Bard.”
• “Happy Burns Night! May your celebration be filled with good food, good friends, and good times.”
• “May your Burns Supper be a night to remember, filled with Scottish pride and joy.”
• “Happy Robert Burns Day! Wishing you a wee bit o’ Scotland in your celebrations.”
• “Enjoy your Burns Supper! May the poetry, music, and laughter fill your heart with joy.”
• “Here’s to a traditional Burns Night! May your evening be as special as the man himself.”
• “Wishing you a warm and wonderful Burns Supper, celebrating Scottish heritage.”
• “Happy Burns Night! May your celebration be filled with the magic of Robert Burns’ words.”
• “May your Burns Supper be a toast to friendship, poetry, and the Scottish spirit.”
• “Happy Robert Burns Day! Wishing you a night of unforgettable celebrations.”
• “Enjoy your Burns Supper! May your evening be as grand as the legacy of Robert Burns.”
• “Wishing you a Burns Night filled with all the best of Scottish hospitality and cheer.”

Conclusion

Burns Suppers are a vibrant and enduring tradition, offering a chance to celebrate the life and works of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. These gatherings are a testament to the power of poetry, music, and community, bringing people together to share in a rich cultural experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Burns Supper attendee or a newcomer to the tradition, the warmth, laughter, and spirit of the Bard are sure to make it a memorable occasion.

FAQs About Celebrating Burns Supper

What is haggis?

Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s pluck (heart, liver, and lungs), minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and stock, ¹ and cooked in a sheep’s stomach. While this might sound unusual, it’s a beloved delicacy in Scotland.   

What is the “Address to a Haggis”?

It’s a humorous and dramatic poem written by Robert Burns in praise of haggis. It’s a central part of the Burns Supper, recited with great enthusiasm as the haggis is ceremoniously cut open.

What is “Auld Lang Syne”?

A famous Scottish folk song, also written by Robert Burns, that is traditionally sung at the end of a Burns Supper. It’s a song about remembering old friends and times gone by.

What should I wear to a Burns Supper?

While there’s no strict dress code, many people choose to wear traditional Scottish attire, such as kilts or tartan accessories. However, smart casual wear is also perfectly acceptable.

What if I don’t like haggis?

Don’t worry! Many Burns Suppers offer alternative main courses for those who don’t enjoy haggis. You can always enjoy the other elements of the meal and the festivities.

Where can I find a Burns Supper?

Burns Suppers are held all over the world, wherever there’s a community of Scots or those who appreciate Scottish culture. Check local listings, cultural centers, or Scottish societies in your area. You can even host your own!

What’s the significance of January 25th?

January 25th is Robert Burns’ birthday, and it’s the date on which Burns Suppers are traditionally held.

Is whisky a must at a Burns Supper?

While whisky is a traditional drink associated with Burns Suppers, it’s not obligatory. You can enjoy other beverages if you prefer. However, a wee dram of Scotch whisky is often considered a fitting tribute to the Bard.