January 25th every year in Scotland is ‘Burns Night’. This is the birthday of Robert Burns, the country’s national poet who was born in 1759 and died in 1796. Burns Night is one of Scotland’s most famous celebrations, honouring Burns’ life and work. If you are learning English at BSC Edinburgh, or simply interested in Scottish culture, this article will help you understand Burns Night traditions.
Who Was Robert Burns?
Robert Burns, often called “Rabbie Burns,” was a famous and popular poet and songwriter who wrote about life, love, and nature. Despite only living for 37 years, Burns produced a huge amount of work that helps Scottish people express their national pride. Some of his most famous poems include “A Red, Red Rose” and “Tam o’ Shanter”.
He also wrote the song “Auld Lang Syne”, which is sung around the world on New Year’s Eve. You will probably recognise it!
Burns Night Traditions – what happens?
Burns Night in Scotland is an occasion filled with joy, poetry, food, music, and dancing. Here’s a typical schedule for a Burns Supper, the main event of the evening:
Welcome and Selkirk Grace
The host welcomes everyone and says a short prayer in Scots language called the Selkirk Grace:
Some hae meat and canna eat,
And some wad eat that want it;
But we hae meat, and we can eat,
And sae the Lord be thankit.
In modern English, this would translate as:
Some have meat but cannot eat,
Some have none that want it;
But we have meat and we can eat,
So let the Lord be thanked.
Haggis Ceremony
The haggis, a traditional Scottish dish made of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs mixed with oatmeal and spices, is brought in. Sometimes bagpipe music is played as it is carried to the table before someone recites Burns’s poem “Address to a Haggis“.
Burns Night Feast
The meal usually includes:
- Haggis
- ‘Neeps’ and ‘tatties’ (mashed turnips and potatoes)
- Cranachan (a mix of cream, honey, oats, and berries).
- Whisky
Dancing
The evening often ends with traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing, which is easy to join and lots of fun.
Burns Night in Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital is home to BSC Edinburgh, and one of the best places to enjoy Burns Night traditions. The city offers a mix of traditional and modern events, perfect for people of all ages and backgrounds. If you are studying here, you might like to enjoy these popular Burns Night activities:
Burns Suppers in Restaurants
Many restaurants host special Burns Suppers with traditional menus and live entertainment, such as bagpipes or poetry readings.
Ceilidh Dances
A ceilidh is a traditional Scottish and Irish social gathering that involves music and dancing. The word “ceilidh” comes from the Scottish Gaelic word céilidh, which means “gathering” or “party”.
Museum Events
The Writers’ Museum and the National Museum of Scotland sometimes hold exhibitions or events focusing on Robert Burns and his legacy.
Outdoor Celebrations
For a modern twist, some Edinburgh festivals include Burns-themed events, combining his poetry with contemporary art, food, and music.
What’s On Edinburgh is a great place to find out where these events are taking place and how much they cost.
Why Celebrate Burns Night?
Burns Night has brought people together for over 200 years, and is a fantastic chance to connect with Scotland’s heritage and its community.
If you are keen to experience authentic Burns Night traditions, our Student Experience team at BSC Edinburgh will be very happy to help.
We hope you have enjoyed this guide to Burns Night traditions. Would you like to discover Scotland and improve your English at the same time? Find out more about BSC Education’s English courses in Edinburgh, or contact us for more information.
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