Address to a Haggis – Burns Night

Raise a glass with us to Rabbie Burns and all our Scottish colleagues, clients, and connections across the globe.  

Slàinte Mhath! (Pronounced Slanj-a-va, cheers in Scottish Gaelic) 

Learn about Burns Night in this short blog written by Ross Yuill, Digital Marketing Executive and proud Scot.

Burns Night on January 25th is an evening to raise a toast to everyone and celebrate the immortal memory of Rabbie Burns, Scotland’s greatest poet, and lyricist.  

Some traditions around Burns Supper might seem quite odd to a bystander who isn’t Scottish. Still, it is a night everyone looks forward to, beginning when the haggis is brought in to the song ‘Star O’Rabbie Burns’ playing on the bagpipes, carried by the chef and placed on a ceremonial platter to be toasted by the party.  

The host reads Burns’ famous poem aloud, followed by everyone raising their glass to the haggis. Celebrations often begin with an evening of delicious Scottish cuisine with Cullen skink (a traditional fish soup made with cream), followed by the main event: the haggis, served with ‘neeps’ (turnip or swede) and ‘tatties’ (mashed potatoes). Lastly, cranachan, a deliciously sweet dessert made from Scottish raspberries, cream, oats, honey and whisky – the perfect way to end any Burns Supper! 

To this day, Scotland remembers Rabbie Burns fondly and honors his fantastic tales of love and Scottish romanticism through his immortal works.  

 Ye Pow’rs wha mak mankind your care,
And dish them out their bill o’fare,
Auld Scotland wants nae skinking ware
That laups in luggies;
But, if ye wish her gratefu’ prayer,
Gie her a Haggis!  

 Address to a Haggis – Rabbie Burns