How to Host a Traditional Burns Supper
Celebrate Scotland’s most famous poet, Robert Burns, with an unforgettable evening of food, poetry, music, and camaraderie. Whether you’re planning a cosy gathering at home or a larger event, this guide will help you create an authentic Burns Night experience – complete with the star of the show: Macsween Haggis from Buy Haggis.
The Traditional Burns Supper Menu
Starter
Scottish Broth or Cock-a-Leekie Soup – Hearty and warming, made with lamb or chicken broth, barley, root vegetables, and leeks.
Cullen Skink – A creamy, comforting soup of smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and milk.
Main Course
Haggis – The centrepiece of Burns Night. Serve Macsween Traditional Haggis with neeps (mashed turnips) and tatties(mashed potatoes).
Vegetarian Haggis – A delicious meat-free version with lentils, beans, oats, and spices, ideal for vegetarian guests.
Scotch Beef or Lamb – Roasted and served alongside or instead of haggis for extra variety.
Whisky Sauce – A creamy, rich sauce made with Scotch whisky, cream, and mustard to complement the main dish.
Dessert
Cranachan – A traditional dessert with whipped cream, raspberries, toasted oats, honey, and a splash of whisky.
Tipsy Laird – A Scottish trifle with sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whisky.
Beverages
Scotch Whisky – Offer a selection for toasting and sipping.
Scottish Ales & Beers – Great alongside the meal.
Non-Alcoholic Options – Scottish mineral water, juices, or soft drinks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting a Burns Supper
1. Plan Ahead
Send invitations early, suggesting traditional dress (kilts or formal wear).
Decide your menu and order your haggis, neeps, and tatties from Buy Haggis.
Stock up on whisky, ales, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Add Scottish touches to your décor – tartan table runners, thistle flowers, or Scottish flags.
2. Set the Scene
Lay the table with tartan napkins, Scottish-themed decorations, and candles.
Have a copy of Robert Burns’ poems ready for readings.
Prepare the traditional serving dishes and utensils for your haggis.
3. Welcome Guests
Greet everyone with a Scottish drink – perhaps a whisky cocktail or a dram of single malt.
Explain the traditions of Burns Night and the evening’s running order.
4. Pipe in the Haggis
The ceremonial entrance of the haggis is a highlight. If you can, arrange for a piper.
As the haggis arrives, play or recite Robert Burns’ “Address to a Haggis”.
At the line “An’ cut you up wi’ ready slicht”, slice open the haggis with theatrical flair.
5. The Meal & Toasts
Serve your starter, followed by haggis with neeps and tatties, and finish with dessert.
Include the Selkirk Grace before the main course.
Offer toasts with whisky throughout the evening.
6. Entertainment
Read Burns’ poetry, play traditional Scottish music, or sing folk songs.
Include the Immortal Memory speech to honour Robert Burns.
For fun, add the Toast to the Lassies and Reply from the Lassies – humorous speeches between male and female guests.
7. Sweet Finish & Farewell
Serve coffee or tea alongside cranachan or Tipsy Laird.
Thank guests for joining and send them home with a small Scottish keepsake – perhaps a miniature bottle of whisky or shortbread.
Why Order Your Burns Supper Haggis from Buy Haggis?
At Buy Haggis, we deliver the finest Macsween haggis and vegetarian alternatives straight to your door – fresh, authentic, and perfect for Burns Night. With UK-wide delivery, you can enjoy the very best of Scotland’s culinary tradition wherever you are. Make this Burns Night one to remember – order your haggis today and celebrate in true Scottish style.