Burns Night (25th January)
Celebrating Scotland's Bard, Robert Burns
What is Burns Night?
Burns Night is an evening dedicated to celebrating the life and work of Robert Burns.
Robert, or ‘Rabbie’, Burns is Scotland’s National Bard, thanks to his significant contribution to Scottish Culture and literary brilliance. A National Bard is a poet that is identified for their significant contribution to cultural identit and spirit.
Robert Burns was born in Ayr and spent his life writing over 550 poems, songs and letters, some of his most renowned work being, “Auld Lang Syne”, “Address to a Haggis”, and “Red, Red Rose”.
Burns Night was first celebrated in 1801, and is held on the birthday of Robert Burns, 25th January. Many of the traditions that began on that first evening, are still held today.
How to celebrate burns night
Since the beginning, Burns Night has always focussed on the work of Robert Burns, and celebrating his legacy.
A typical evening will consist of friends and family gathering to raise a toast to the bard. The evening will likely comprise of reciting “Address to a Haggis”, as a Haggis is ceremoniously delivered and plated for all to enjoy.
Of course all will be adorning their tartan finery, from kilts for the men to sashes and skirts for the ladies!
Traditional Burns Supper
A tradditional Burns Supper will comprise of 3 elements:
- Haggis – widely recognised as Scotlandss national dish is made from minced sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oatmeal, suet, onions, and spices, traditionally cooked in a sheep’s stomach, but often in synthetic casings today.
- Neeps – mashed turnip, a slightly nuttier and sweeter taste in comparison to potatoes.
- Tatties – mashed potatoes, a classic!
A modern (and rather popular) addition to the supper is whisky sauce, a creamy sauce infused with whisky for a real kick.
What to wear?
Tartan! You can really wear what you like, as long as your ensemble includes a flash of Tartan, you are sure to nail the dress code.
Whether it’s a formal dinner requiring full Highland Dress, or a relaxed ceilidh where a pop of tartan will suffice, wear it with your own style.
Check out our Burns Night shop for some inspiration on how to make your evening extra special. From kilts and accessories, to table runners and placemats, we have everything you need for a night to remember!
Ladies Mini Kilt
Available in over 20 tartans in sinzes UK6 – UK24.
£90.00
Childrens Kilt
Available in over 50 tartans from Age 1 through to Age 12.
£40.00 – £54.00
Tartan Sash
A lovely touch of Tartan that looks great layered over an array of outfits, great for casual and formal occassions.
£48.00
Tartan Table Runner
Add a touch of Scottish charm to your table with our 100% wool Tartan Table Runner
£28.00