Scotland comes together every January 25th to celebrate our National Bard Robert Burns.
The Burns Night supper is a staple of Scottish culture and is full of traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Burns was born January 1759 in Alloway, and was merely 37 years old when he died in Dumfries in July 1796. During his short life, he became Scotland’s most famous son, his poetry and music warming the hearts and souls of people all over the world for hundreds of years.
Burns Night falls on a Sunday this year, so wherever you are, sit with friends and family to tell stories, recite poetry and celebrate.
Here are 10 Scottish traditions for Burns Night.
5. A good drink
Something that Scotland does really well - a proper nice drink. Whether you drink alcohol and can treat yourself to a world class whisky, or you avoid alcohol and can enjoy a crisp, cold can of Irn Bru - its a good night to be celebrating Burns and Scotland. | Getty Images
6. Recite Burns poetry
One of Scotland's, and the world's, most prolific and most loved poets, there is never a bad time to delve into the work of this genius. Burns Night celebrates his incredible range of work, about love, nature, religion, politics.. pick your favourite ones and share it with your friends and family. | NW
7. Bagpipes - piping in the haggis
Perhaps not one for inside the home - unless you have some bagpipes lying around, in which case, go for it. But if you attend a large Burns Supper, more often than not, the haggis will be paraded into the room accompanied by a bagpiper, to show it respect. It's fun and rather moving, and a big part of the evening. | TSPL
8. Scottish cuisine
Haggis isn't the only tasty Scottish food you can enjoy - so go wild. Shortbread, tablet, some cranachan - all delicious, and all available to enjoy all year round, but if you need an excuse, Burns Night is it. Tuck in! | NW