Burns Night & Burns Supper (2024)

FAQs

What is the correct greeting on Burns Night? ›

While there is no formal greeting for Burns Night, people generally say “Sláinte Mhath” to one another. This is pronounced “slanj'-uh va” and translates as “Good Health!”. You can also say “Oidhche Bhlas Burns”, which means “Happy Burns Night”. These could be fun messages to include in your designs.

Haggis, neeps and tatties

It's an absolute Scottish classic and should certainly be enjoyed on Burns Night!

Burns Night itself marks the anniversary of Robert Burns' birth on 25 January 1759 and the traditional Burns supper is an evening event that celebrates his life and work. History can trace its origins back to nine of Burns' close friends who decided to get together to mark the fifth anniversary of their friend's death.

All the guests are then seated and grace is said, usually using the "Selkirk Grace", a well-known thanksgiving said before meals that uses the Scots language. Although attributed to Burns, the Selkirk Grace was already known in the 17th century as the "Galloway Grace" or the "Covenanters' Grace".

To start – everyone gathers, the host says a few words, everyone sits and the Selkirk Grace is said. The meal – the starter is served, the haggis is piped in, the host performs the famous Burns Night haggis poem Address to a Haggis, everyone toasts the haggis and the main meal is served, followed by dessert.

Speaking of drinks, it wouldn't be a proper Scottish celebration or Burns Night without the mention of whisky. A staple part of Scottish culture, having a glass or two of whisky to celebrate is a must.

After the meal, the speeches and entertainment begin in earnest, starting with a toast to the monarch, known as the Loyal Toast. This is followed by the main toast of the night, to the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns. The Immortal Memory should be a heartfelt toast to his life and works.

If you or any other guests are Scottish, tradition would see you wear your family's tartan. For those without Scottish blood, there are no set rules for which tartan you can wear, but if you're at all worried about it, the Royal Stewart is officially open for anyone to wear.

In his lifetime, haggis would have been a highly nourishing and very cheap meal for poor families to prepare. In one of his most famous poems - his 'Address to a Haggis' - Burns humorously celebrates his love for the humble delicacy. “Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o' the puddin-race!

What is the blessing for Burns Night? ›

O thou who kindly dost provide For every creature's want! We bless Thee, God of Nature wide, For all Thy goodness lent: And if it please Thee, Heavenly Guide, May never worse be sent; But , whether granted, or denied, Lord, bless us with content. Amen!

Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties - The iconic dish of Burns Night. Venison Medallions with Whisky Sauce - Tender venison medallions served with a rich whisky-infused sauce. Cranachan A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, oats, and whisky.

That's how you say a Happy. Burns night.

Robert Burns

Kenji Ito

Paul Dinletir

Benjamin Matthew Knorr

Ed Watkins