Robbie Burns

The 25th of January marks the birthday of Robbie Burns - arguably one of the most popular figures in Scottish history.

Burns, who was born in 1759 in Alloway, Ayrshire, is widely regarded as Scotland's "national poet" and a cultural icon, being responsible for many well-known Scottish poems and songs, such as "Auld Lang Syne", "Scots Wha Hae", "A Man's A Man for A' That", and many more.

It is an annual tradition in Scotland and around the world to celebrate the life of Burns on or around his birthday with a "Burns Supper", featuring traditional Scottish music and many of Burns' literary works in the forms of song and poetry.

Burns Suppers are particularly popular in Scotland and countries which are rich in Scottish heritage, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, but they are also widely celebrated in other countries with a much smaller Scottish connection, such as Russia.

To find out information about any Burns Suppers happening near you, check out the websites and social media pages of your local Caledonian and Scottish Societies or your local Pipe Band.

Further reading on Robbie Burns:

"Robert Burns - Inspirational quotes and their meanings" - The Scotsman

http://www.scotsman.com/heritage/people-places/robert-burns-inspirational-quotes-and-their-meaning-1-4005164

"Robert Burns: Sixteen little known facts" - The Scotsman

http://www.scotsman.com/heritage/more-heritage/robert-burns-sixteen-little-known-facts-1-4004010