During the meal it's important to celebrate the life and works of Robert Burns with The Immortal Memory, To A Mouse and Auld Lang Syne. One of the guests (not the host) will make the Immortal Memory speech about Burns' life and works.
Following this speech, a toast of whisky will then be made to Robert Burns. The host will then thank the speaker who has given the Immortal Memory speech and may make his own comments and observations.
A short speech - Toast to the Lasses - is made by one of the male guests which is traditionally to thank the women (lasses or lassies) who prepared the meal, but may include the guest's own comments on the fairer sex. A toast is made to the health of the women. In response, if present, the women will then speak, giving their comments on the men. This is often a humourous part of the evening.
In addition to the speeches, readings and toasts already carried out, more Burns poems may be sung or read. Popular poems include Burns' To A Mouse.
Dancing may also follow, usually Scottish country dancing, usually dependent on how much whisky has been consumed. The evening comes to a close when the host calls upon another guest to offer thanks. Following this, all the guests will stand and, joining hands, sing Auld Lang Syne.
PERFECT POETRY:
- Of A' The Airts: a tribute to Burns and his hometown
- Burns Supper: key elements part one
- Burns Supper: key elements part two
- Burns Supper: key elements part one
