Every year on 25th January, Scotland comes alive with the sound of poetry, piping, and celebration as we mark Burns Night, a tribute to the life and legacy of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. From formal suppers in grand halls to relaxed gatherings around the kitchen table, Burns Night is one of the most cherished dates in the Scottish cultural calendar.
Who Was Robert Burns?
Robert Burns, born in 1759 in Alloway, Ayrshire, is widely regarded as Scotland’s greatest poet. His work captured the voice of ordinary people, celebrating love, nature, politics, humour, and social justice often written in Scots dialect. Poems such as Address to a Haggis, A Man’s A Man for A’ That, and the world-famous Auld Lang Syne remain as relevant today as they were over two centuries ago.
Burns Night commemorates his birthday and honours his influence not only on Scottish literature, but on Scottish identity itself.
Why Do People Celebrate Burns Night?
At its heart, Burns Night is about celebrating Scottish culture, food, language, and community. Traditionally, a Burns Supper follows a set order:
- A warm welcome and the Selkirk Grace
- The ceremonial piping in of the haggis
- A passionate recital of Address to a Haggis
- A hearty meal of haggis, neeps and tatties
- Toasts, speeches, and poetry readings
- Music, laughter, and often a dram or two of whisky
While the formalities remain popular, modern Burns Nights are just as likely to be celebrated casually with friends and family proving that Burns’ legacy is for everyone.
Burns Night Today: Tradition Meets Modern Scotland
Burns Night has evolved beyond tradition alone. Today, it’s also a celebration of Scottish produce, craftsmanship, and rural life, values that sit at the heart of events like the Scottish Game Fair. From championing field sports and countryside skills to supporting rural businesses and artisans, the Scottish Game Fair plays a vital role in keeping Scotland’s heritage alive while welcoming new audiences.
How the Scottish Game Fair Is Celebrating Burns Night 2026
To mark the occasion, Scottish Game Fair has launched our “12 Days Until Burns Night Giveaway”, exclusively on Instagram, a festive countdown packed with fantastic prizes and a celebration of Scottish craftsmanship and countryside culture.
How to enter:
► Follow @scottish_game_fair
► Like the Resent “Burns Night Promotion” Post
► Share to your story
►Tag a friend!
To kick off the countdown, our 12 Days of Giveaways begins on 14th January. Thanks to the incredible support of our fantastic exhibitors, we’ve expanded the giveaway from five days to a full 12 days of prizes. That means a brand-new giveaway every single day, right up until Burns Night itself.
From delicious food and drink to beautifully crafted accessories and more, there’s something for everyone and plenty of chances to win along the way. All giveaways will be shared exclusively on our Instagram channel, so be sure to follow along and stay up to date.
