What is Burns Night and how did it start?
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When we think of Burns Night, we typically imagine enjoying a spicy bite of haggis and sipping on a small glass of whisky. However, the rich past and traditions behind this event are often overlooked.
The Burns Supper is an occasion that commemorates the existence and heritage of the Scottish bard, Robert Burns. Although it was originally arranged by his intimate acquaintances and relatives as a remembrance dinner, the festivity has now transformed into a happening for Scots both in and outside of Scotland.
The occasion is commemorated with customary Scottish cuisine, traditional folk tunes, and performances of Burns's poetic works.
Who's Robert Burns?
Before his passing in 1796, "Rabbie" Burns created over 550 poems and songs.
The author from the 18th century was a great influence on the creators of Liberalism and Socialism because of their sharp insights on social issues and concentration on politics. This famous writer from Scotland is known as a trailblazer and inspiration, not only in his country but also globally.
In 2009, STV bestowed the title of "greatest Scot of all time" upon a renowned writer hailing from Ayrshire. Unfortunately, this talented individual passed away due to rheumatic fever when they were merely 37 years old.
On the day Maxwell was born, Burns's funeral took place. After Jean Armour's death in 1834, Burns's remains were moved from a grave in the churchyard to a mausoleum in Dumfries where his wife was also buried.
What Is The Date Of Burns Night?
On the 25th of January each year, we celebrate Burns Night.
The selected day was picked to match the birth anniversary of the writer, who came into the world on January 25th, 1759.
The initial celebration of Burns supper, organized by the Burns Club, took place on 29 January 1802, which was believed to be the day of Burns' birth.
But, in the next year, it was found from the documentation of parish records that the birthday of the poet who passed away was actually four days earlier than what was previously believed.
"How To Celebrate?"
The main highlight of Burns Night is the Burns Supper. This typically includes attendees wearing plaid, enjoying bagpipe music, singing Auld Lang Syne - which is also sung on New Year's Eve - and performing the famous writer's songs and poems.
Explore further: Crafting your own vegan haggis recipe
In 1788, Robert Burns wrote a poem that he later sent to the Scots Musical Museum, which eventually became the basis for the song Auld Lang Syne.
Saltire, the Scottish national flag, is frequently included in the Burns Night festivities.
Although the inaugural Burns Supper occurred in the year 1801 and additional customs have been included over time, the essence of the commemoration remains the same - honoring Burns in a way that is personally meaningful.
What's In A Typical Dinner?
The highlight of a Burns Supper is undoubtedly the haggis, a tasty pudding that consists of minced sheep's liver, heart, and lungs. Mixed with onion, oatmeal, spices, stock, and suet, this dish is customarily wrapped in the stomach of the animal.
According to Burns, haggis is the leader of all puddings and a typical Burns Night starts with someone reading his famous "Address to a Haggis".
Discover More: Creating traditional haggis, turnips and potatoes
Haggis is usually served with a traditional accompaniment of mashed neeps and tatties, which are essentially swedes and potatoes. To complement the meal, people often prefer to drink the finest local whisky.
Individuals who choose to follow a vegetarian or pescatarian lifestyle and even those who just want to switch things up a bit can opt for haggis that is meat-free. Another well-liked option amongst this group is seafood delights such as Cullen Skink soup, expertly crafted from smoked haddock.
