Burns Night

Burns Night History

Burns Night celebrated primarily in Scotland and Northern Ireland, honouring the life and work of Scottish poet Robert Burns. This event demonstrates the Scottish and Northern Irish people's appreciation and pride for their national poet, while also providing an opportunity for communities to gather and strengthen connections. Common Burns Night traditions include reciting Burns' poetry, feasting on traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, and enjoying Scottish music and dancing.

The origins of Burns Night date back to 1801 when friends of Robert Burns organised a gathering to mark the fifth anniversary of his death. Burns, well known for his works such as "Auld Lang Syne" and "To a Mouse", is celebrated not only in Scotland and Northern Ireland but has a significant following in Australia, too. With strong links to Scottish and Irish heritage, many Australians enjoy Burns' contributions to literature and partake in celebrating his achievements through local events.

In Australia, Burns Night events are organised by various Scottish and Irish societies and clubs, providing opportunities for individuals interested in the observance to come together and celebrate. Attendees in Australia can expect similar activities to their Scottish and Northern Irish counterparts, with recitals, feasting, and Highland dancing events being relatively common. Burns Night in Australia follows the same annual observance date as Scotland and Northern Ireland, taking place on or around the 25th of January, coinciding with the poet's birthday.

Burns Night Facts

• While the first celebration of Burns Night Occurred in July 1801, it is estimated that today more than 9.5 million people around the world celebrate Buns Supper each year.
• The largest collection of Robert Burn’s work is said to be in Glasgow’s Mitchell Library. His work there has been translated into almost 30 different languages.
• The first Australian publication of Burns' work is believed to have been in 1827, when his poem Tam o' Shanter appeared in a New South Wales periodical.
• In 2016, a group of Australian butchers made headlines for creating the world's largest haggis in honor of Robert Burns' 257th birthday. The haggis weighed 101.8 kilograms (224 lb), nearly doubling the previous record.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Burns Night

Burns Night Top Events and Things to Do

• Explore the history of Burns Night.
• Read The Burns Encyclopedia by Maurice Lindsay.
• Visit one of the many Scottish pubs across Australia for a night of traditional music, food and drink. Some pubs might host special events for Burns Night.
• Some Australians choose to celebrate Burns Night by cooking a traditional meal at home, including haggis, neeps (turnips), and tatties (potatoes).