January 25th, 2026

Burns supper

Prepare your kilts and get ready for a culinary celebration with a Burns supper! This Scottish feast is dedicated to the iconic poet Robert Burns and is all about indulging in haggis, neeps, and tatties. The evening usually kicks off with bagpipes and includes Burns' poetry recitals, toasts, and traditional Scottish dancing. It's a night to embrace the culture, enjoy hearty food, and maybe even brush up on your Scottish slang. Whether you're a seasoned Scot or just a curious guest, a Burns supper is a festive and flavorful tribute to the bard himself.

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson - (updated: January 24th, 2025 at 9:05AM)

Deep in the heart of Scotland, there's a festive occasion that warms the cockles of every Scotsman's heart – the Burns Supper. Celebrating the life and works of Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns, this beloved holiday is a joyous explosion of food, poetry, music, and merriment. It's a time when Scots around the world gather to honor the bard with gusto and good cheer.Burnssupper

So, what exactly is a Burns Supper, you ask? Imagine a traditional dinner, replete with Scotland's national dish, haggis—a savory mix of sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices. This dish is often accompanied by neeps (mashed turnips) and tatties (mashed potatoes). The evening's festivities are a veritable feast for the senses, with recitations of Burns' poetry, foot-stomping music, and hearty singing echoing through the halls.

Ceremonial Piping in of the Haggis

The pièce de résistance of the evening is, undoubtedly, the ceremonial piping in of the haggis. As the bagpipes skirl, the haggis is proudly presented to the guests, making its grand entrance accompanied by a lively procession of pipers, drummers, and bearers of the mighty haggis. It's an unforgettable experience, one that sets the tone for the rest of the evening's revelries. The sound of the pipes, the anticipation, and the aromas all blend into a magical moment that captures the spirit of Scotland.

Reciting the Bard's Masterpieces

As the evening wears on, guests gather 'round to recite Burns' most beloved poems and songs. From the iconic "Address to a Haggis" to the soulful "Auld Lang Syne," the air is filled with the Bard's masterpieces, recited with passion and conviction. It's a testament to the enduring power of Burns' words, which continue to inspire and delight to this day. Each recitation is not just a tribute but an invitation to connect with the rich tapestry of Scottish culture.

Toasts and Speeches Galore

The rest of the evening is filled with heartfelt toasts and speeches, as guests pay tribute to the life and legacy of Robert Burns. From the traditional "Immortal Memory" toast, which reflects on Burns' enduring impact, to the more light-hearted "Toast to the Lassies," the speeches are a time for reflection, humor, and gratitude. These moments of camaraderie and wit remind us of the bard's ability to unite us through the universal themes of love, friendship, and human experience.

So, if you ever find yourself in Scotland on Burns Night, be sure to join in the revelry! With its unique blend of poetry, music, and camaraderie, a Burns Supper is an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling like part of the Scottish family. The warmth of the gathering, the laughter shared, and the stories told will undoubtedly linger long after the evening has ended.

“Should auld acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind?”

In the words of the Bard himself, let us cherish the memories of old friendships and forge new ones, as we gather 'round the table to celebrate the life and legacy of Robert Burns. Whether you're a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, the Burns Supper offers a chance to dive into the heart of Scottish tradition, embracing the past while creating new stories to tell in the years to come.

Updated on January 24th, 2025 by Emma Thompson:

As preparations for the big night gather momentum, the town of Dumfries is abuzz with excitement. After a year's absence, the Big Burns Supper festival is back, bringing with it a carnival of colors, music, and poetry. The festival's grand return was marked by a vibrant costume parade, which drew in big crowds lining the streets of Dumfries.

This year, Scots and Scots-at-heart will have multiple opportunities to celebrate Burns Night in style, with indulgent feasts and entertaining events taking place across Scotland and the UK. From traditional Burns Suppers to modern twists on the classic celebration, there's something for everyone.

In a nod to Scotland's rich cultural heritage, the Student Friends of the Princeton University Library are hosting a Burns Night celebration at the Nassau Club, complete with poetry recitals, music, and a traditional Burns Supper. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of Burns' poetry and the strong Scottish roots that run deep in the community.

Recipe for Burns supper

In the spirit of Burns Supper, we bring you a traditional Scottish shortbread recipe, perfect for serving alongside the evening's festivities. This buttery, crumbly shortbread is a classic Scottish biscuit that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or a dram of whisky. As you gather 'round with friends and family to celebrate the life and works of Robert Burns, be sure to have a plate of these delicious shortbreads on hand to add to the merriment.



Nutrition Facts
Calories120 calories
Total Fat8g
Total Carbohydrate15g
Protein2g

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Method: Baking

Category: Dessert

Cuisine: Scottish

Yield: 12 shortbreads

Suitable For Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

WorldPaellaDay recipe

Materials

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and confectioners' sugar.
  3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and use a rubbing-in pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
  4. Add the salt and mix until just combined.
  5. Turn the mixture out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until it comes together in a cohesive ball.
  6. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness and use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles.
  7. Place the shortbreads on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the shortbreads are lightly golden around the edges.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Timeline
1815
First Burns Supper
The first Burns Supper was held by friends of Robert Burns to celebrate his life and works, starting the tradition of Burns Night.
1844
Burns Club Founded
The first Burns Club was founded in Greenock, Scotland, to promote the life and works of Robert Burns.
1859
Centenary Celebrations
The centenary of Robert Burns birth was celebrated with events across Scotland, cementing Burns Night as a national celebration.
1959
Burns Night Global
Burns Night celebrations were held globally, marking a century and a half of international recognition of Scotlands national poet.
Burns supper

Burns supper Quiz

What is the main dish typically served at a Burns supper?

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FAQ
What is a Burns supper?
A Burns supper is a celebration held to commemorate the life and works of Scotlands national poet, Robert Burns, typically featuring food, drink, and poetry readings.
What is the traditional menu for a Burns supper?
The traditional menu for a Burns supper includes Scottish delicacies such as haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink.
What role does poetry play in a Burns supper?
Poetry plays a central role in a Burns supper, with guests often reciting Burns poems and singing his songs.
What is the significance of the Immortal Memory?
The Immortal Memory is a toast given during a Burns supper to honor the life and legacy of Robert Burns.
How is the Address to a Haggis traditionally performed?
The Address to a Haggis is traditionally performed by a designated speaker, who recites the poem while the haggis is piped in and served.
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