Burns Night 2026: Downing Street Called
We answered. We were delighted to attend and perform at No10 Downing Street after answering the call to perform at their Burns Reception last night.
It was an honour to showcase our talent in front of such an influential audience, with Jason Barrett, our Chief Executive Officer, there to represent the Tattoo and support our team of Tattoo Performers as they shared traditional Scottish music and dance to celebrate Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive Officer of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said:
It’s a huge honour to be invited to such a prestigious event - one that celebrates everything the Tattoo stands for: celebration, beautiful music, poetry, and the honouring of Scottish identity.
I couldn’t be prouder of the Tattoo performers who brought the sights and sounds of Scotland to No10. Their commitment, talent, and skill are at the heart of the Tattoo and help us continue to spread the message of who we are far and wide.
In the last few weeks, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been referenced at Prime Minister’s Questions and invited to present to the Commons Culture, Media and Sports Committee, as part of their inquiry into Major Events. It was a great opportunity for Jason to talk about the Tattoo’s role on the world stage, and discuss how our Show supports soft power and facilitates engagement at the highest levels. It felt a fitting warm up as we make final preparations to take the Tattoo to Australia and New Zealand next month.
You can watch the interaction on PMQs here, and the Commons Committee discussion here.
The Tattoo adds the Scottish Flavour on Burns Night at Downing Street
The evening was a memorable celebration, featuring guest performers, traditional toasts and opportunities for guests to connect while celebrating Scottish culture.
The event honoured the legacy of Robert “Rabbie” Burns, whose influence helped put Scotland - its food, whisky, and rich tradition of storytelling - firmly on the global stage.
Stephanie Buchan, Dancer from the Tattoo Performers, said:
I was both excited and nervous to dance with The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Downing Street, and showcase the traditional arts of Scotland. This wonderful experience will stay with me for a long time.
The visit to Downing Street follows swiftly on from our CEO, Jason Barrett’s, recent visit to the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, where he was given the honour of 'addressing the lassies' at their annual Burns Supper.
Who was Robert Burns?
Robert Burns was Scotland’s national poet and one of the most influential literary figures in the country’s history. Writing in the late 18th century, his poetry and songs captured everyday life, love, politics and identity, many of which continue to be celebrated around the world today. His work remains central to Scottish culture and is the reason “Rabbie” is marked internationally each year.
Where was Robert Burns born?
Robert Burns was born on 25 January 1759 in Alloway, Ayrshire, Scotland - a date now commemorated annually through Burns Night celebrations around the world.
We are proud to have been part of this special occasion and to have had the opportunity to connect new people with Scottish traditional music and dance.
From everyone at the Tattoo, Slàinte mhath!
Join us at the next Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Show. A Call to Gather runs 7-29 August 2026 and tickets can be purchased now online or on the phone on 0131 225 1188.
28 January 2026