Burns Night is celebrated every year on January 25th, marking the birthday of the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns, born on January 25, 1759. It is a traditional Scottish celebration that involves a Burns Supper, which typically features Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps (mashed swede), and tatties (mashed potatoes), along with bagpipe music, recitations of Burns' poetry, Scottish dancing, and toasts including one to the "Immortal Memory" of Robert Burns. While the celebration is always on January 25, some people hold the event on the closest Saturday to that date for convenience. The tradition began with a supper held by Burns' friends in July 1801 to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his death and has since become a widespread celebration of Scottish culture and heritage.
For 2026, Burns Night will be observed on Sunday, January 25.
