Tonight (25/01/2022) is Burns Night, a tradition observed annually throughout Scotland, on the birthday of Robert Burns (1759-1796). Burns wrote many well-known poems and songs (primarily in Scots), including ‘Ae Fond Kiss’, ‘Tam o’Shanter’ and, of course, ‘Auld Lang Syne’, which continues to be sung on New Year’s Eve across the globe.
First celebrated in 1801, Burns Night commemorates Burns’ life, as well as his contributions to Scottish (and world) culture. Traditionally, people mark the occasion with a supper of haggis, ‘neeps’ (turnips) and ‘tatties’ (potatoes), often accompanied by a dram of Scotch whisky. Before guests tuck in, there will usually be a recital of Burns’ famous poem ‘Address to a Haggis’.
For dessert, guests might enjoy a ‘clootie dumpling’ (a traditional Scottish pudding made of dried fruits and spices) or ‘cranachan’ (raspberries with cream, oats and whisky). Frequently described as Scotland’s national poet, Burns remains one of the most important figures in Scottish literature.