About Burns Night
Burns Night is the annual celebration of Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, held on his birthday, January 25. Burns was born in Alloway in 1759 and, despite dying at just 37, left a body of work — including "Auld Lang Syne", "Tam o' Shanter" and "To a Mouse" — that made him a global symbol of Scottish identity. The centrepiece of the night is the Burns Supper. This live Burns Night countdown shows how many days remain in your timezone.
A traditional Burns Supper follows a cherished order: guests are welcomed, the haggis is carried in to the skirl of bagpipes and saluted with Burns's "Address to a Haggis" before it is cut open. Diners enjoy haggis with neeps and tatties, washed down with Scotch whisky, and the evening continues with recitals of his poems, the witty "Toast to the Lassies" and the reply, and a closing rendition of "Auld Lang Syne". The first supper was held by Burns's friends around 1801.
Burns Night falls on January 25 every year, the anniversary of the poet's birth, and is marked not only in Scotland but by Scottish communities across Canada, the United States, Australia and beyond. When the date passes, this page automatically counts down to next year's celebration — bookmark the live Burns Night countdown, or add it to your own countdown page to plan your supper.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Monday, January 25, 2027next |
| 2028 | Tuesday, January 25, 2028 |
| 2029 | Thursday, January 25, 2029 |
| 2030 | Friday, January 25, 2030 |
| 2031 | Saturday, January 25, 2031 |
FAQ
When is Burns Night?
Burns Night is held on January 25 each year, the birthday of Robert Burns. The countdown above shows the exact days, hours and minutes remaining in your timezone.
Why is Burns Night celebrated?
It honours Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, born January 25, 1759, celebrating his poetry and his enduring place in Scottish culture.
How is Burns Night celebrated?
With a Burns Supper: haggis piped in and addressed with Burns's verse, served with neeps and tatties and whisky, followed by poems, toasts and "Auld Lang Syne".
What do you eat on Burns Night?
The traditional meal is haggis with neeps (mashed swede) and tatties (mashed potato), often with a whisky sauce, finished with a dessert such as cranachan.