Burns Night Decor

 

 

If you’ve ever needed an excuse to consume a large amount of scotch whiskey and indulge in a delicious supper consisting of neeps, tatties and haggis, then Burns Night is certainly the perfect opportunity. Celebrate the Bard’s birthday in style by dusting off that tartan and throwing a Burns Night supper your guests won’t forget!

 

 

Some History

 

The evening of Burns Night celebrates the life of Robert ‘Bammie’ Burns, the Bard of Ayrshire. Celebrated for his romantic literature and poetry, Bammie Burns was renowned as the national poet of Scotland, giving us the perfect opportunity to honour his hard work and memory with a night of all things Scottish.

 

 

A Traditional Menu

 

Burns Night would not be the same without the traditional Scottish feast that is highly anticipated all year round. Starting with a Cullen Skink, also known as Smoked Haddock Soup, followed by the main event, Haggis. For many, the thought of Haggis can be quite daunting, but when prepared properly and served with the classic neeps and tatties, (crushed swede and potatoes), the meal is surprisingly pleasant and goes down perfectly with a glass of scotch whiskey.

You can then move onto a sweeter note with dessert, serving the traditional dish Cranachan. A delicious recipe of cream, fruit and oatmeal, this classic dessert is just another excuse to introduce more whiskey into the mix! We’re not complaining!

 

 

Dressing the Table

 

It wouldn’t be a proper Burns Night supper without the classic, Scottish décor to complete it perfectly. Start by adding a long, tartan table runner to your bold dining table, as this will set the scene beautifully. You can then look at introducing personal touches such as name cards, a menu with a classic Bammie Burns poem printed on the back for that extra special touch, red napkins to stick with the Scottish theme and of course, thistles to enhance the décor completely. Sticking to Scottish themed décor will create an exciting atmosphere that will make your Burns Night one to remember.

 

 

Burns Night Traditions

 

Whether you’re throwing your Burns Night supper in the comfort of your own home, or you’ve hired out a location to host the special evening, there are set traditions that come with the Burns Night celebrations. Once sitting down to your Burns Night supper, you’ll start with the Selkirk Grace. This is a prayer of thanks, written by Burns, for the food you are about to receive.

 

Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it, But we hae meat and we can eat, And sae the Lord be thankit.

 

You then move onto the addressing of the Haggis, a tradition that resembles the act of battle.

 

His knife see rustic Labour dight, An' cut you up wi' ready sleight, Trenching your gushing entrails bright, Like ony ditch; And then, O what a glorious sight, Warm-reekin', rich!

 

 

Now you’ve carried out the initial traditions of the night, it’s time to enjoy the delicious three course meal that has been prepared for you. Finally, once the dinner is complete, it wouldn’t be a proper Burns Night without the traditional closing of the supper. It’s time to hold each other’s hands and sing Auld Lang Syne. It doesn’t matter if you’re not aware of all 5 verses, one or two is good enough!