The culture and tradition of Scotland in the United Kingdom are influencing the world since the twelve century with a rich history of clans, towns, princesses and kings. Many filmmakers and writers created memorable movies, books and music inspired on Scottish customs.
Burns' Night is a Scottish tradition held across the globe by Scots, and others Scottish at heart. It takes place every year on January 25th to commemorating the legacy of Robert Burns, poet and lyricist, known also as the Bard of Ayrshire.
A few years after Burns died on July 21st, 1796, a group of his close friends decided remember him, reciting his poems and singing the songs he wrote. Later, the celebration moved to Burns birthday, on the last week of January.
Traditionally the Burns Supper consist of Haggis, tatties, neeps, and the official drink is whisky. Haggis, a delicatessen of the Scottish cuisine is the star of the celebration. There, the chairman of the ceremony invites the participants to welcome the haggis. At the song of the bagpipers' music, the chef brings the haggis into the reunion, on a silver tray. Immediately after, the appointed speaker renders the poem Address to a Haggis and saluting the haggis with a glass of whisky. Afterwards, the chef kills the haggis, after the audience's consented. plunging a knife into the haggis, and slicing it before serving the supper.
The evening ends with a rousing rendering of Auld Lang Syne.
While most Scots celebrate Burns Night around the world in different events and parties, holding your own Burns Supper at home is easy and fun.
The first thing is to get a haggis with natural casing.
Get the tatties (mashed potatoes) and neeps (yellow turnip).
Starters at a Burns Supper usually are soups like Cock-a-leekie, Cullen Skink, or Scotch Broth.
Whisky is the traditional drink, although IRN-BRU is a great non-alcoholic drink choice.
A silver plate to carry the haggis
A silver knife to cut the haggis
Tartan table clothes or plaid napkins for the dining table
Kilts or plaid clothes for the participants
Pipers music or other Scottish songs
Robert Burns selection of poems and songs
Happy Birthday, Bobby Burns!
References
Traditional Homemade HaggisHaggis Neeps & Tatties RecipeHistory of Scotland-Robert BurnsHolding your own Burns Supper - A step-by-step guide pdf
