A passionate, inspiring, forward thinking pioneer of his generation, Robert Burns is regarded as the national poet of Scotland. Born in Ayrshire, in 1759, Scotland's best loved bard is famous for his political views, revolutionary behaviour, his love for the lassies and of course his world famous songs and poems including Auld Lang Syne.

Although Burns lived a short life, dying at the age of 37, it was fulfilling and eventful. Starting out as a farmer then moving on to become a writer, Burns travelled throughout Scotland where he gathered inspiration for much of his work. The stunning Ayrshire scenery and the romantic setting of Dumfries helped provide the insight for compiling much of his romantic material.

Around the world tributes to the life and works of Robert Burns are held, through the ritual of the Burns Supper. Originally started a few years after his death by a group of his friends and acquaintances to honour his memory, the suppers are now celebrated annually on the date of his birth, 25th January.

No Burns Supper would be complete without The Haggis, The Drink (normally Whisky), The Songs, The Recitals, The Dance and of course the most important ingredient of all, The Fun. If Burns were alive today he too would surely have enjoyed the celebrations!

2009 marks the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns' birth and is the inspiration behind the year of Homecoming. Come home to the home of Burns in 2009 and celebrate his life and work at one of the many Burns-related events during the year.

To find out about the other main themes for Homecoming, click on the links below: 
Whisky
Golf
Ancestry
Enlightenment and Innovation
For more information on Robert Burns, click here