When January rolls around, Scotland’s most celebrated evening - Burns Night - takes centre stage. It’s an annual celebration of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, who gave the world Auld Lang Syne, Tam o’ Shanter, and countless other classics. But a true Burns Night isn’t complete without a ceilidh to get everyone on their feet. At Bowreed, we’ve spent over a decade bringing ceilidh magic to Burns Night suppers across the UK, hosting magical evenings of music, dance, and laughter.
What is Burns Night?
Burns Night is held every year on January 25th to honour the life and legacy of Robert Burns. Born in 1759, Burns captured Scotland’s heart with his poems and songs celebrating love, nature, and social justice. The first Burns Night was held in 1801, marking the fifth anniversary of his death, and what began as a modest supper has evolved into a national tradition celebrated worldwide.
The typical supper includes haggis, whisky, poetry readings, and toasts. But the night doesn’t stop at the dinner table- a ceilidh is the perfect way to round off the evening, bringing guests together in true Scottish style.
Ceilidhs: The Heartbeat of Scottish Tradition
A ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee) is more than just a dance; it’s a celebration of connection. The tradition dates back centuries, originating as community gatherings with music, storytelling, and dance. Over time, ceilidhs became synonymous with Scottish culture, their energy and inclusivity making them the perfect companion to a traditional supper.
The beauty of a ceilidh lies in its simplicity. The dances are “called,” meaning the steps are explained as you go, so everyone can join in, whether they’re seasoned ceilidh-goers or complete beginners. It’s this mix of fun and accessibility that makes ceilidhs the ideal choice for Burns Night celebrations.
Why a Burns Night Ceilidh?
Burns Night is about celebrating togetherness, and nothing brings people together quite like a ceilidh. At Bowreed, we’ve seen it all- from first-timers nervously stepping into the Gay Gordons to entire rooms bursting with laughter during Strip the Willow. A ceilidh bridges gaps, breaking down barriers and creating shared moments your guests will treasure.
Whether you’re hosting a formal supper or a casual celebration, a ceilidh adds energy, tradition, and plenty of smiles. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to work off the haggis and whisky!
Bowreed’s Burns Supper Expertise
With over a decade of experience performing at Burns Night ceilidhs, Bowreed has built a reputation for bringing the party to life. We’ve played at military bases, corporate dinners, community gatherings, and even the annual Burns Night ceilidh for the prestigious Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice. Their guests’ enthusiasm is unmatched, and we love seeing the room come alive with music and dance.
Our ceilidh band combines expert musicianship with skilled calling, ensuring your guests feel confident and included. From the Gay Gordons to the Eightsome Reel, we tailor each dance to suit the crowd, whether it’s a room full of seasoned dancers or a group of complete beginners. And by special request, we can even arrange a piper to pipe in the haggis- because no Burns celebration is complete without a touch of bagpipe magic.
What to Expect at Your Burns Night Ceilidh with Bowreed
If you’re planning a Burns Night celebration, here’s what Bowreed brings to the table:
- Expert Musicianship: With fiddle, accordion, and guitar, our band creates the high-energy tunes that ceilidhs are known for.
- Inclusive Calling: Our caller ensures every guest knows the steps, so no one feels left out.
- Flexibility: From formal dinners to private parties, we tailor our ceilidhs to fit your event perfectly.
- Unmatched Experience: With hundreds of five-star reviews and a client list that includes the Ministry of Defence, The Independent, and ITV, we’re trusted by some of the best.
For more about what our clients think, have a look at our reviews.
The Essential Scottish Ceilidh Dances
Organising a Burns Supper? Let Bowreed take care of the ceilidh. From military mess dinners to corporate events, we work with you to create a celebration that reflects the spirit of Burns Night. Our attention to detail ensures the evening runs smoothly, so you can relax and enjoy the celebration.
Want to add a special touch? We can provide a piper to pipe in the haggis, as well as acoustic background music during dinner or a disco to round off the night.
A Ceilidh: Non-Negotiable at Burns Night
Let’s be honest- a Burns Night without a ceilidh just doesn’t cut it. It’s the moment where everyone comes together, celebrating Scottish culture with music, dance, and sheer joy. If you’re planning a Burns Night, make sure your ceilidh is in the hands of professionals who know how to keep the floor buzzing.
Get in touch with Bowreed today to secure your date, and let’s make this celebration one for the history books. Are ye dancing? You will be!
