On January 25, Burns Night is coming up! If you’ve ever wondered about Robbie Burns Day, where it comes from, why we celebrate it and who is the man behind the day, read some quick facts below!

Who? Robbie (Rabbie) Burns was a Scottish poet and lyricist and continues to be one of the most influential people to emerge from the country. He is regarded as the national poet of Scotland and is also known as the “Bard of Ayrshire”, “Scotland’s favourite son”, or just “The Bard” in Scotland. He is thought of as the pioneer of the Romantic movement and some of his work includes political or civil commentary on what was occurring in Scotland during his time.

What? Burns Night is a way to celebrate Scottish heritage! The evening centres around the entrance of the haggis (a famous Scottish delicacy that consists of sausage that is prepared in a sheep’s stomach) to the music of bagpipes. The Burns’ ode to the dish Address to a Haggis is recited and after it is read, the supper begins. The celebration usually concludes with the signing of Auld Lang Syne, one of Burns’ most famous poems.

When? On Robbie Burns’s birthday every year, January 25. Burns was born in 1759 and died in 1796 at the age of 37.

Where? Burns dinners are held all over the world, including Australia, Canada, England and the USA. They are often organized by people or organizations of Scottish origins.

Why? Burns Night is a way to celebrate a very prominent and revolutionary poet. He has influenced many writers who came after him and is an important figure in Scottish history, culture and literature.

Take part in this rousing event by attending our A Celebration of Robbie Burns concert with Celtic band Blackthorn on January 18, 2020. For more information on tickets and the event, click here.

Citation: https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/burns-night