Robert Burns is Scotland’s national poet and a cultural icon. His life and work are celebrated every year on or around his birthday, the 25th January.

The celebrations were started by his friends following his death in 1796 but have gone on to become an integral part of Scottish culture and identity, taking place across the world wherever there is a Scottish influence.

Celebrations take the form of an informal supper followed by whisky and poetry or they can become formal, in which case a traditional format is followed.

This will begin with an opening speech by the host followed by a formal prayer before everyone stands for the entrance of the haggis, Scotland’s national dish, to the sound of bagpipes.

After supper comes a series of formal toasts, followed by a speech on Robert Burns, this can be about his life, poetry or philosophy, before finally everyone joins in songs or recitals of Burns’ poetry. The evenings can be rounded off by lots of dancing.

The whole thing is a fun affair that celebrates a man of huge importance to Scotland, but who is also an important historical figure behind the Romantic Movement and a key political philosopher. 

Burn’s Night in Edinburgh is a great time to visit; the city is full of events and most pubs and restaurants have some sort of celebration which you will be more than welcome to join in with.