Burns Night in Scotland

Everything You Need to Know About Burns Supper Traditions

Burns Night is one of Scotland’s most celebrated cultural events, bringing together poetry, tradition, food and whisky in honour of Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Bard. Held every year on 25 January, Burns Night is marked by Burns suppers across Scotland and around the world.

Whether you are attending a formal dinner, hosting friends at home, or experiencing it for the first time, Burns Night remains a meaningful celebration of Scottish heritage and community.

What is Burns Night?

Burns Night marks the birthday of Robert Burns, one of Scotland’s most famous poets. His writing captured Scottish life, language and values, and continues to be read, recited and celebrated centuries after his birth.

The evening is dedicated to celebrating Burns’ life and work through poetry, traditional Scottish food, music and ceremony.

When is Burns Night?

Burns Night takes place on 25 January each year. Robert Burns was born on 25 January 1759, and the date has remained fixed ever since.

While many Burns suppers are held on the nearest weekend for convenience, the 25th of January is considered the official Burns Night in Scotland.

What is a Burns Supper?

A Burns supper is a traditional Scottish dinner held in honour of Robert Burns. Burns suppers are hosted across Scotland and internationally, ranging from formal events with structured speeches to relaxed gatherings at home.

Although each Burns supper is unique, most follow a traditional format that combines ceremony, poetry, food and shared celebration.

History of the Burns Supper

The first Burns supper took place in 1801, five years after Robert Burns’ death. A group of his close friends gathered at Burns Cottage in Alloway to honour his life with a meal, poetry readings and speeches.

The event was such a success that they decided to repeat it the following year, this time to mark Burns’ birthday. From then on, Burns suppers became an annual tradition that continues to this day.

What Happens at a Burns Supper?

A traditional Burns supper follows a recognisable running order, although timings and formality can vary.

The evening usually begins with a welcome from the host, followed by the Selkirk Grace. Guests then enjoy the first course of the meal.

The highlight of the night is the piping in of the haggis. As the haggis is brought into the room, the host recites Address to a Haggis, one of Robert Burns’ most famous poems. A toast is raised, the haggis is cut, and the main course of haggis, neeps and tatties is served, often accompanied by a dram of Scotch whisky.

After the meal, the evening continues with recitals of Burns’ poetry and songs. The Immortal Memory is the main speech of the night, reflecting on Burns’ life and legacy. This is traditionally followed by the Toast to the Lassies and the Reply, adding humour and warmth to the proceedings.

The night concludes with a vote of thanks from the host before everyone stands to sing Auld Lang Syne, joining hands in a final moment of shared tradition.

Celebrating Burns Night Today

Burns Night continues to be celebrated across Scotland and beyond, from grand formal suppers to intimate gatherings at home. While the traditions remain rooted in history, the spirit of Burns Night is as relevant today as ever.

It is a night that celebrates Scottish culture, shared stories and the importance of coming together, making it one of the most enduring events in the Scottish calendar.

What to Wear to a Burns Night Supper or Ceilidh

Burns Night is traditionally a smart occasion, and many guests choose to wear classic Scottish formalwear or refined evening dress. What you wear often depends on the type of event, with formal suppers calling for traditional Highland dress, while ceilidhs and informal gatherings allow for a more relaxed approach.

Traditional Dress for a Burns Night Supper

For formal Burns suppers, traditional Highland dress is the most popular choice. This typically includes a kilt paired with a formal jacket such as a Prince Charlie or Argyll, worn with a waistcoat, sporran, kilt hose and ghillie brogues.

Tartan ties or bow ties complete the look, with many choosing family or heritage tartans to reflect the significance of the evening. Prince Charlie jackets are often preferred for more formal suppers, while Argyll jackets offer a versatile option suitable for a wide range of Burns Night events.

What to Wear to a Burns Night Ceilidh

Ceilidhs are lively social events, so comfort and movement are just as important as tradition. Kilts remain widely worn, often paired with an Argyll jacket or waistcoat without a jacket to allow for easier dancing.

Shirts, tartan ties or bow ties, and practical footwear are key, with many opting for a slightly less formal look while still embracing traditional Scottish style.

Accessories and Finishing Touches

Accessories play an important role in completing a Burns Night outfit. Sporrans, sgian dubhs, kilt pins and tartan accessories all add detail and tradition to Highland dress.

For those not wearing full Highland dress, tartan ties, bow ties and scarves offer an easy way to reflect the spirit of the occasion while maintaining a smart appearance.

Choosing the Right Outfit for Burns Night

Whether you are attending a formal Burns supper, a relaxed gathering, or a lively ceilidh, Burns Night is an opportunity to embrace Scottish tradition and dress for the occasion.

Our dedicated Burns Night collection makes it easy to find everything you need in one place, from kilts and jackets to accessories and finishing touches, ensuring you feel confident and appropriately dressed for the evening.