When the meal reaches the coffee stage, various speeches and toasts are given.
The host gives a speech with remembrance to Rabbie. This may be either light-hearted or serious, but it will probably include a recital of a poem or a song by Burns. Finishing with a toast to the “Immortal Memory” of Robert Burns.
A short set of two speeches follows. A male guest thanks the women who have prepared the meal in the”Address of the Lassies”. This address is normally found to be amusing and not offensive. A toast is then made to the women’s health. A female guest will then respond in good humour with the “reply to the laddies” and reply to any specific points raised by the previous speaker. In organising the evening, the speakers will normally collaborate so that the two toasts complement each other and are fun for the listeners.
The evening may then have further songs and poems by Burns that are performed by invited guests or performers. Scottish music may be played for ceilidh dancing.
At the end of the evening thanks is given and everyone stands to join hands to sing “Auld Lang Syne“.