Robert Burns 1759 - 1796 by Archibald Skirving. Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

A number of Burns themed events took place at the Scottish Parliament to coincide with Burns Night on Wednesday 25 January 2006.

On Tuesday 24 January the Presiding Officer welcomed representatives of 20 countries with a Consular presence in Scotland to Holyrood, to brief them on activities undertaken by the Parliament.

View images from the evening.

George Reid said: "Showcasing Scottish music, culture and food on the eve of Burns Night helps us to celebrate the relationships Scotland has across the world." Read the news release.

On Wednesday a Burns Breakfast took place featuring a live satellite link-up with mountaineer Chris Dunlop, who enjoyed what is believed to be the highest-altitude Burns Supper ever, on Argentina's Mount Aconcagua. The Holyrood event was organised by Margaret Jamieson MSP.

The second annual Scottish Parliament Burns Supper was held on Burns Night itself.

More about Robert Burns and the Scottish Parliament

Portrait of Robert Burns by Calum Colvin

A portrait of Robert Burns forms part of a series of works by Scots artist Calum Colvin on loan to the Parliament. Read more about the art.

To mark Burns Night 2005 a book from Robert Burns's own collection, including his handwritten version of Auld Lang Syne, went on public display at Holyrood. News release.

At the Holyrood Opening Ceremony on 9 October 2005, Auld Lang Syne was performed by Eddi Reader, accompanied by the National Youth Choir of Scotland. View Opening Ceremony highlights on Holyrood.tv.

The Scottish Parliament took up its full legislative powers on July 1, 1999, with a ceremony including a performance by Sheena Wellington of A Man's A Man for A' That.