Stretching for five cold, grey weeks ahead of us, January might feel like the gloomiest month ever. But there's a warm light on the calendar to break up the winter blues - Burns Night.
If you're wondering "what is Burns Night?", here's the lowdown. Burns Night is a celebration of one of Scotland's most-loved writers, Robert Burns.
During his lifetime, Burns penned timeless poems such as 'To a Mouse', 'Tam o' Shanter' and of course, the New Year's Eve banger 'Auld Lang Syne'.
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When is Burns Night?
Every year on 25 January, which was Robert Burns' birthday, Scots and fans of Burns' legacy come together to honour his life, poetry and love of haggis - a culinary creation that sparks as much debate as Marmite.
Whether you're a seasoned ceilidh dancer or just want an excuse to enjoy some poetry with a whisky in hand, here's everything you need to know about what Burns Night is and how to celebrate it in style.
Who was Robert Burns?
This is perhaps the best-known of several paintings of the Scottish poet Robert Burns, created by the portrait and landscape painter Alexander Nasmyth. / Wikimedia Commons
Robert Burns (1759 - 1796) is widely regarded as Scotland's national poet and one of the pioneers of the Romantic movement.
He's basically to the Scottish what Shakespeare is to the English - an all-round literary hero.
Born in Alloway, Ayrshire, he was a prolific writer whose works often celebrated the beauty of Scotland, its people and its dialects.
His poems and songs blend humour, social commentary and an enduring love for nature.
This extract from 'My Heart's in the Highlands' gives a flavour of his style:
"My heart's in the Highlands, my heart is not here,
My heart's in the Highlands, a-chasing the deer;
Chasing the wild-deer, and following the roe,
My heart's in the Highlands, wherever I go."
Conjuring a perfect mix of powerful imagery and nostalgia which has endured and still resonates centuries later, Burns is a celebrated master for a reason. And thankfully, there is plenty more where that came from.
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Why Robert Burns = Scotland
To get back to the matter in hand, Burns' influence on Scottish culture is immeasurable. He gave voice to the common man, championed Scottish identity and inspired generations of poets and songwriters.
His work also transcends borders, with 'Auld Lang Syne' sung worldwide to ring in the New Year.
Burns Night honours his legacy with food, poetry and a sense of camaraderie that would have no doubt made him proud.
What is Burns Night and How to Celebrate It
Burns Night began in 1801 when friends of Robert Burns gathered five years after his death to commemorate his life and works.
It's since evolved into an internationally celebrated annual tradition. The evening's centrepiece is the Burns Supper, a feast filled with symbolism and hearty Scottish foods.
What's in a Burns Night Supper?
Haggis, neeps and tatties is the quintessential Scottish dish you must try on Burns Night and beyond. / iStock / Pichunter
The core elements of any Burns Night supper are:
- Haggis: A savoury pudding made from sheep's offal, oats and spices. Stay with me, it's tastier than it sounds.
- Neeps and tatties: That's mashed turnips or swede, and potatoes, to the rest of us.
- Whisky: Scotland's national drink, essential for toasts.
What do you Need for a Burns Night Celebration?
So, you want to host your own Burns Night? Here are the essentials.
Haggis - The Star of the Show
Haggis is a heady mix of 'sheep's pluck' (heart, liver, and lungs) minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, and stock, all simmered in a casing until rich and nutty. / Adobe Free Stock
Haggis is the centrepiece of any Burns Night celebration. In Scotland, haggis is revered, and no Burns Supper is complete without it.
But if the idea of eating a mashup of sheep's heart, liver and lungs puts you off, try a vegetarian version, which some people highly rate.
Address to the Haggis
Before digging in, someone - usually the most dramatic attendee - recites 'Address to a Haggis', one of Burns' most famous poems.
The speaker salutes the haggis with a flourish and cuts it open during the recital to let the glorious aroma escape.
It's theatrical, it's fun and the heart of the evening.
Whisky Toasts
The whisky toast is a symbol of friendship and hospitality. As Burns wrote, '"Freedom and whisky gang thegither!" (Freedom and whisky go together) / Adobe Free Stock
Forget tea - whisky is the Burns Night drink of choice. Guests toast the haggis, Robert Burns himself and each other's health.
It's a good excuse to sample Scottish whisky, known as being among the best in the world (responsibly, of course).
Burns' Poetry
No Burns night is complete without enthusiastic readings of his poems. As they're written in Scots, the language of lowland Scotland, this is more challenging than it looks. / Adobe Free Stock
Expect readings of Burns' works, from romantic pieces like 'A Red, Red Rose' to the nostalgic 'Auld Lang Syne'.
His poems are filled with wit, heart and a fair bit of cheek - perfect for a fun evening.
Ceilidh Dancing
If you've never been to a ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee), you're missing out.
Think energetic group dances, lots of laughter and absolutely no need to be a pro. Grab a partner and get twirling.
Put a Modern Twist on Burns Night
Tradition is great, but there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on Burns Night.
- Celebrate beyond Scotland - Burns Night isn't limited to Scotland. From London to New York to Sydney, you'll find Burns night events held all around the world as Scottish expats and enthusiasts keep the tradition alive.
- Virtual gatherings - If your friends are scattered across the globe, host a virtual Burns Night. Share a playlist of Burns' poetry readings, stream a Scottish folk band and raise a glass together over video chat.
- Fusion menus - Swap classic haggis for haggis tacos or haggis-stuffed burgers. Pair whisky with creative cocktails, rather than drinking it straight.
How to Celebrate Burns Night Anywhere
You don't have to be Scottish, or even in Scotland, to introduce the Burns Night traditions of socialising, laughter and great food and drink into your January rituals. / Adobe Free Stock
Can't get to Scotland for Burns Night 2026? Not to worry. Here's how to celebrate wherever you are.
- Find a local event - Many cities have Scottish groups and societies that host Burns Suppers. A quick search should point you in the right direction.
- DIY burns supper - Cook your own haggis, neeps and tatties. If cooking isn't your thing, order a haggis from a Scottish deli.
- Share on social media - Post your best Burns Night photos and videos. Bonus points if you film your address to a haggis and get creative with poetry recitations.
What do you wear for Burns Night? Full Highland dress, including kilts and sashes, are the gold standard for formal suppers. But for a casual evening with friends, some tartan trousers, a tartan dress, or even an accessory or two (a tartan tie, scarf, or traditional brooch) will do nicely.
The beautiful thing about Burns Night is that it isn't just a dinner. It's all about bringing together the joys of poetry, friendship and having a laugh with friends and family. All universal joys that can really give us a boost and remind us of what's important in January's bleakest days.
So don a bit of tartan, pour yourself a dram and let the words of Robert Burns bring a little warmth to the cold winter nights.
No Wi-fi in the Highlands?
If you're celebrating Burns Night away from home, an eSIM from Airalo can help keep you online without the frosty roaming charges.
Visit the Airalo store, browse your eSIM for Scotland (or whichever country you're heading to) and choose the amount of data you need for your trip. Perfect for staying connected on your travels and sharing every toast, jig and poetry performance in real-time.
FAQs: What is Burns Night and How to Celebrate It
1.) What is Burns Night and why is it celebrated?
Burns Night is an annual celebration held on or around 25 January to honour the life and poetry of Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns. The tradition began in 1801 and involves a celebratory Burns dinner, whisky toasts, and recitals of his famous works.
2.) What is traditionally eaten on Burns Night?
To celebrate Burns Night 2026, you should attend a traditional Burns dinner featuring haggis, neeps, tatties, and live poetry. These events range from formal galas to casual pub nights, all culminating in a group singing of Auld Lang Syne.
3.) What do you wear for Burns night?
Although a kilt is traditional, you can dress up for Burns Night without one. Swap a kilt for tartan trousers, a Prince Charlie, Argyll or tweed jacket. Tartan skirts, scarves, and sashes secured with traditional brooches will also make you look the part on Burns Night.
4.) Do I need data to get around Scotland during Burns Night?
Yes, having reliable mobile data is essential for navigating to your Burns dinner, translating Scots dialect, and sharing photos. Using Scotland eSIMs from Airalo is the fastest, most hassle-free and affordable way to stay connected to your apps, maps and reservations without eye-watering roaming fees.
5.) How do eSIMs work for travellers in Scotland?
eSIMs are digital SIM cards embedded into your phone that allow you to get online instantly via an app or QR code. They're the top choice for travellers in 2026, as they don't require researching and queuing for physical SIM cards. They allow you to use data while also keeping your home phone number active, are easy to use, affordable and get you online instantly wherever you are.
