Haggis is the only main course that is acceptable on this special night in memory of Scotland’s most beloved bard. If you have vegetarian or squeamish guests there are number of delicious vegetarian versions. If you fancy something sweet Cranachan is a delicious traditional pudding made with oats, raspberries, cream and whisky. When it comes to the Selkirk Grace toast a traditional Scottish Quaich is the perfect receptacle for some of your finest whisky.  

The Selkirk Grace

Some hae meat and canna eat,

And some wad eat that want it;

But we hae meat, and we can eat,

And sae let the Lord be thankit.

As the haggis is being piped in the guests stand as a mark of their appreciation, a key part of the ceremony is the cutting open of the haggis which can be accomplished with aplomb using a traditional Dirk. Then follows Burns’ famous ‘Ode to the Haggis’At the end of the poem, a Scotch whisky toast will be proposed. Once the meal has been eaten it’s the time for speeches which play a crucial part in the evening. Delivery should be light hearted and entertaining, as such the speaker should be rewarded for their efforts with much applause, you might also like to offer a small token of appreciation to the speaker such as a pair of Celtic cufflinks or mini-bottle of whisky. To add to the occasion why not present ladies with a tartan sash and younger members of the party with homemade tablet. Adding tartan ribbon to your front door to welcome friends and family is also a nice touch. Have a great Burns Night. Slante!