Burns Night is a celebration of the life and poetry of Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns (25 January 1759 – 21 July 1796).

The first Burns supper was held in July 1801 when nine of Burns’ close friends got together to mark the fifth anniversary of their friend’s death. The night was such a resounding success they decided to hold it again (this time in honour of Burns’ birthday), beginning the tradition we still enjoy to this day.

The Burns Supper is an institution of Scottish life which is celebrated both at home in Scotland and abroad. The Robert Burns World Federation lists more than 250 Burns clubs worldwide.