It’s the dinner to celebrate the life and poetry of the poet Robert Burns.

Burns Night suppers are usually held near the poet’s birthday of January 25, and will often include a haggis, Scotch whisky, bagpipes and the recitation of Burns’ poetry.

The first dinner was held at Burns Cottage, South Ayrshire, Scotland, by Burns’ friends on the fifth anniversary of his death, July 21, 1801.

At one of the evenings, a piper will usually greet the guests and a host will say a few words. Once the guests are seated, grace is said, usually using the Selkirk Grace from the 17th century.

On these pages are locals enjoying Burns Nights from the past.