Burns Night 2025 - Edinburgh and Dunedin

Get yer kilt, it’s Burns Night!
Rediscover your inner Scot in the Edinburgh of the South

Kick your heels up to mark the 50th anniversary of Dunedin and Edinburgh’s sister city relationship while also celebrating the birthday of esteemed poet Robert Burns.

It is said that ‘a good beginning makes a good ending’ and with bagpipes opening your evening of traditional Scottish food and a dram or two of whisky combined with a lively entertainment line-up, you’re in for a braw night!

Through the interwoven theme of Burns – Edinburgh and Dunedin, you’ll enjoy Scottish sword dancing, poetry readings, Burns songs performed by tenor Scott Bezett, all alongside traditional Burns Night speeches and toasts.

You’ll hear thoughts from guest speakers, author and academic Professor Liam McIlvanney and Chair Dunedin Edinburgh Sister City Society, Sarah Davis – rounded off with an opportunity to dance the night away at the ceilidh with music from the talented Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.

There’ll be a prize for the best dressed and if you need a rest from dancing, the photobooth and props will be waiting for you.

Oidhche Bhlas Burns!

7pm, Saturday 25 January
Toitū Otago Settlers Museum
$125 per person plus booking fee, cash bar
You will be contacted in advance for any special dietary and refreshment needs