Burns Night may bring to mind peppery haggis and shots of whiskey, but the festival's history is often taken for granted.
The Burns Supper celebrates the life and legacy of Scottish poet Robert Burns. Initially organized as a memorial dinner by close friends and family, the night has since transformed into an event for Scots across the country and around the world.
It is celebrated with traditional Scottish food, folk music and performances of Burns' poetry.
Who was Robert Burns?
“Rabbie” Burns wrote over 550 poems and songs by the time of his death in 1796.
A huge inspiration to the founders of liberalism and socialism, the 18th-century writer is known for his astute social commentary and focus on all things political. Scotland's national poet is considered a revolutionary figure both in his native country and beyond.
Dubbed ‘the greatest Scot of all time’ STV In 2009, the Ayrshire-born writer died of rheumatic fever aged just 37.
His funeral was held on the day his son Maxwell was born. Burns' body was later moved from the churchyard tomb to the mausoleum at Dumfries, where his wife Jean Armor was also buried after her death in 1834.
When is Burns Night?
Burns Night takes place every year on January 25th.
The date was chosen to coincide with the poet's birthday, who was born on January 25, 1759.
The first Burns dinner hosted by the Burns Club was held on January 29, 1802, believed to be Burns' birthday.
However, when parish records were discovered the following year, it was revealed that the late poet's birthday was actually four days earlier.
How is it celebrated?
The main attraction of Burns Night is the Burns Supper. Traditionally, participants wear tartan, listen to bagpipes, sing Auld Lang Syne, which is also sung on New Year's Eve, and recite songs and poems by great writers.
Read more: How to make vegan haggis
The song Auld Lang Syne is derived from a poem Burns wrote in 1788, which he originally sent to the Scots Musical Museum.
Burns Night celebrations typically include the Scottish national flag, the Saltire.
The original Burns Supper was first held in 1801, and although new rituals have been added since then, the core of the celebration remains the same: paying tribute to Burns in any way you see fit.
What's in a traditional dinner?
The crowning jewel of a Burns Supper has always been haggis, a delicious pudding made from minced sheep heart, liver and lungs mixed with onions, oatmeal, lamb, broth and various spices. Traditionally, it is tied to the animal's stomach.
Burns describes Haggis as “the great chief of the Puddings,” and the traditional Burns Night begins with the host reading an “Address to Haggis.”
Read more: How to make classic haggis, nephs and tatties.
Haggis is served with classic sides of mashed nephs and tatties (swedes and potatoes). The food is, of course, accompanied by the finest domestic whiskey.
Vegetarians, pescatarians, or those looking for something a little different can opt for meat-free haggis. Also popular are seafood dishes, such as Cullen skink soup made with smoked cod.