Burns Night 2023: What is it, who was Robert Burns, and where was his birthplace?

25 Jan 2023

The Economic Times

Synopsis

Since 1801, Robert Burns Night has been observed yearly to honour his life as a prominent Scottish bard.

Burns Night 2023: What is it, who was Robert Burns, and where was his birthplace?

Agencies

Given his enormous legacy, it is understandable why Scotland and the rest of the globe continue to commemorate Robert Burns' birthday each year.

What is Burns Night?

Burns Night, which is observed annually in Scotland to commemorate the birth of the nation's national poet Robert Burns, is regarded as our "other national day" in addition to St. Andrew's Day. In honour of "Rabbie" Burns and his renowned commitment to Scotland, particularly its people and natural beauty, Scots observe a number of cultural customs on this day.

Who was Robert Burns?

The eldest of seven children born to a tenant farmer in the little village of Alloway, Robert Burns was born there in 1759. Burns produced nearly 700 poems before he passed away at age 37, despite spending a large portion of his life following his father's profession. Tragically, the funeral for Burns occurred at the same time as the birth of his son Maxwell.

Life inside Scotland's drug death crisis

The "Jekyll and Hyde" effect

He also blamed the spike in deaths on street valium -- thought to contain benzodiazepines like the potent Etizolam, but often simply a "cocktail of everything" -- which is increasingly rife. "People take like 30 of them for a tenner (£10, 11 euros, $12), go to sleep and go into a coma and die," Michael said. He added that he had resisted the so-called "street benzos" after seeing their "Jekyll and Hyde" effect. "A good friend of mine hit me with a bottle one night, gave me six staples in my head and the next day couldn't remember doing it," he recounted. (Representative Image)

How is Burns Night celebrated in Scotland?

Burns Night is traditionally celebrated in Scotland with a Burns Supper, which includes haggis, neeps and tatties, as well as, of course, a glass of whisky. There are numerous occasions where revellers can take part in ceilidhs and poetry readings of Robert Burns' greatest works, such as those that take place in Edinburgh.

Burns Night 2023 is when?

Every year on January 25, Burns Night is organised to honour Robert Burns, who was born on this day in 1759. Thus, the poet will celebrate his 264th birthday this year, which will fall on a Wednesday.

FAQs:At a Burns Supper, what is consumed?
Serve up a traditional smoked fish soup, together with the must-have haggis, neeps, and tatties, for a memorable Scottish dinner. Finish it off with a classic clootie dumpling.What do ladies wear for Burns Night?
Highland Dress

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