THE life of Scottish poet Robert Burns is celebrated every year in Scotland.

Here's everything you need to know about Burns Night.

When is Burns Night?

Every year the life and work of poet Robert Burns is celebrated around the globe on January 25 – the day of his birth.

The tradition began after the Scottish lyricist’s death in 1796.

His friends decided they needed an annual event to celebrate his career.

The first Burns Night was held in the Burns Cottage on July 21, 1801, the five-year anniversary of his death.

Since then, it has become an annual event, although the celebrations were moved to January.

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What is Burns Night?

Burns Night nowadays is held every year on January 25.

As everyone gathers, the celebration begins with the host saying a few words, before everyone sits and the Selkirk Grace is said.

The starter is served and the host performs the famous Burns Night haggis poem Address to a Haggis, everyone toasts the haggis and the main meal is served, followed by dessert.

Those celebrating cut into a haggis and eating neeps, tatties and a wee dram – or, in other words, turnips, potatoes and whisky.

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After eating the delicious feast, there are more readings.

The first Burns recital is performed after Burns Night food, the Immortal Memory (the main tribute speech to Burns) is given, the second Burns recital is performed, then there’s a Toast to the Lassies, followed by a Reply to the Toast to the Lassies, before the final Burns recital is performed.

The host then gives a vote of thanks, everyone stands and sings Auld Lang Syne, crossing their arms and joining hands at the line "And there’s a hand, my trusty fere!"

How is Burns Night celebrated in Scotland?

A successful Burns Night is comprised of three key elements – haggis, whisky, and poetry.

In Scotland, many people host their own Burns Night suppers.

But there are also events people can attend in celebration.

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