Happy Robbie Burns Day!
Start up the bagpipes and bring out the haggis! Today is Robbie Burn’s day, or as it is commonly called, Burn’s Night. Every year Scots around the world honor Scotland’s best poet. The celebration takes place every year on his birthday, January 25th. The evening is a mix of song, speeches and food.
To start off, a prayer known as the Selkirk Grace is made in the Scottish tongue. If a bagpipe player is present then the meal begins with the serving of Haggis to the sound of bagpipes. Two more speeches are made known as “Address to the Haggis” and “Toast to the Haggis” before guests can eat.
An old-fashioned meal is served with haggis, a side of mashed turnips, swedes, and potatoes. To drink there is Scottish Whiskey (Peat is a key ingredient in Scottish Whiskey. It gives it that signature smoky flavor)! For dessert there is cranachan (A mix of whipped cream, whisky, honey and fresh raspberries, with toasted oatmeal) or Tipsy Laird (whisky trifle) followed by oatcakes and cheese.
The evening will then end with the host asking a guest to give the vote of thanks. This means guests will stand up, join hands and sing “Auld Lange Syne” one of Robert Burns’s most famous works.
Best of wishes to you and your loved ones this Burns Night!
Sincerely, Burns Bog Conservation Society
