What is Burns Night?

Burns Night is a time to enjoy Scottish traditions and celebrate the renowned poet Robert Burns with a classic combination of haggis, neeps, tatties and sometimes a warming dram. The night is often accompanied by entertaining recitals of some of Robert Burns’ famous work.

When is Burns Night?

Did you know that Robert Burns was born on 25 January 1759? Each year, we celebrate Burns Night on 25 January and pay tribute to Scotland's National Bard. 

Join us as we raise a toast to the immortal words of Burns. Immerse yourself in a tradition that transcends time and discover the extraordinary talent that defines Scotland. It’s a place where the past and the present come together and create a celebration that resonates with the spirit of Scotland's creativity.

Burns Night artwork

To celebrate Scotland’s creativity and innovation this Burns Night, Scottish artist, Louisa Schmolke has captured 'Scotland's creative spirit in 100 squares' – featuring sketches of ancient architecture to world changing inventions, and the music, poetry and ideas that Scotland is recognised for across the world. 

The artwork will be unveiled on Burns Night, 25 January on our social channels.

Scotlandisnow (instagram.com)

Scotlandisnow (facebook.com)

Scotland (x.com)

Brand-Scotland (linkedin.com)

Ultimate Guide to Burns Night

The first Burns supper was held in 1801, and in the 200+ years since then, new traditions have been added, but the sentiment remains the same: to pay tribute to our national poet. Find out how to host the perfect Burns Supper.

Learn More

Burns Night events

The Big Burns Supper takes place in Dumfries this January and includes everything from a family Burns Supper to lantern making and an exciting new Northern Lights installation.

Find out about the Big Burns Supper (bigburnssupper.com)

Celtic Connections will be hosting several Burns Night events across Glasgow, including an outdoor strip the willow down Sauchiehall Street and a Burns Night concert at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Enjoy a lineup of music, song and spoken-word performances from Scotland's famous bard.

Explore the Burns Night concert (celticconnections.com)

Find out about more Burns Night events (visitscotland.com)

Our global community

Millions of people around the world share a special connection to Scotland. There are lots of ways to get involved in our global community.

Learn more