A Burns supper is held around January 25, the poet’s birthday. Events range from formal society dinners to informal gatherings in homes, clubs, pubs, schools, and community halls. The exact program varies, but the purpose is consistent: sharing Burns’s poetry, Scottish food, music, humor, and fellowship.
A traditional order of events
- Guests assemble. A piper may welcome guests or play as they enter.
- The host welcomes the company. Formal suppers may begin with the Selkirk Grace.
- The haggis is piped in. Guests stand while the piper leads the procession carrying the haggis to the top table.
- Address to a Haggis. A speaker recites Burns’s poem and ceremonially cuts the haggis at the appropriate line.
- The meal. Haggis is commonly served with neeps and tatties; menus can be adapted to the setting and guests.
- The Immortal Memory. The principal speech reflects on Burns’s life, work, character, and continuing importance.
- Poetry, song, and music. Guests may read Burns, sing his songs, or hear fiddle and bagpipe selections.
- Toast to the Lassies and Reply. These speeches are traditionally humorous but should suit the audience and occasion.
- Closing thanks and Auld Lang Syne. Guests often join hands for the final song.
Working with a bagpiper
Tell the piper whether the engagement includes guest arrival, the haggis procession, a short recital, or closing music. Confirm the procession route, indoor sound level, timing, tune choices, dress, access, and a safe place to tune the instrument. The haggis procession is brief, so the piper, speaker, caterer, and host should rehearse the order beforehand.
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