Hundreds of traditional Burns Suppers, poetry recitals, ceilidh dancing and parties are to be held around the world to mark the birthday of Scotland's most famous poet.

Robert Burns's work will be read by millions as groups set up in his honour meet 258 years on from his birth, with events organised as far afield as Spain, the US and the United Arab Emirates.

The Scottish Association will hold a Burns Supper in Dubai at the Westin, Mina Seyahi on January 27, the British Spanish Society will host its supper in Barcelona on January 20, and the American-Scottish Foundation will stage its annual Burns Night Gala in New York on the same night.

In Scotland, seven events and festivals will take place as part of the Winter Festivals programme.

The Big Burns Supper Festival will be held in Dumfries from January 20-29 - described as the world's biggest Burns Night celebration - with performances from Lulu, Nicola Benedetti and Eddi Reader.

Celebrations will also take place in Alloway, Ayr - the birthplace of Burns - with tours of local landmarks and a Burns Big Birthday Bash.

Scottish Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "Robert Burns is recognised and commemorated the world over, and has become such an important cultural figure over 200 years after his death.

"He continues to touch people's lives with his prose, works and songs, and marking his birthday on January 25 is the perfect opportunity for us to come together as a nation to celebrate this, and moreover our rich heritage, culture and creativity.

"We have enhanced our programme this year to include events that reflect Scotland's cultural and ethnic diversity, celebrating Burns's iconic internationalist outlook and egalitarian spirit.

"We look forward to seeing our nation and friends from around the world come together to remember this remarkable man."

The full events programme is available at scotland.org/burns, along with a shareable Burns haggis address video, Burns Supper recipes and a worldwide rendition of Auld Lang Syne.