Burns Suppers require a number of different speakers. Just before dinner service, either a host or one of the speakers would say a short Grace, known as “
The Selkirk Grace”. Second course (haggis). The haggis is normally piped in from the kitchen. This procession also involves a piper to lead the procession, a chef to carry the haggis, a host to carry a tray with a bottle of whisky and glasses for all three to partake in the toast. All the guests should have a whiskey available for this. The haggis used for this procession is not normally the one which is actually served to guests. It has to be a large one, often referred to as a Chieftain Haggis.
The
host or the piper would then recite a “
Toast Tae a Haggis”, also known as the Haggis Address. This is a Burns poem with 8 verses, although 4 verses is often enough. The haggis is then toasted and served (sometimes as a small taster/intermediary dish). After the main course it’s time for “
The Immortal Memory”. This is a speech about Rabbie Burns, his life and the impact he has had not only in Scotland but all over the world. Desert served then it’s time for another poem or a speech. “
Tam O Shanter” is the most popular poem but there are others like
Holy Willie's Prayer. The next step can also be a musical section.
Most suppers then move on to the “
Toast Tae The Lassies”. This is a humorous speech by a male speaker directed to the ladies and followed with a toast (drinks should be available). Then there is the “
Reply Fae The Lassies” which is given by a female speaker. Again a toast is made and drinks should be available for this. Not every supper can have all these elements, so there are a few speakers who will take on most of the basic requirements.