Updated Homecoming Scotland 2009 Events Guide Unveiled

22nd December 2008

Party leaders today united to unveil the updated events guide for Homecoming Scotland 2009.

The programme has more than doubled in size since it was first launched in June this year, demonstrating the nationwide support and enthusiasm for the celebrations.

The new 48 page printed guide features more than 300 events and festivals, including more than 100 new additions. All events featured link with the themes of Homecoming ý Burns, whisky, golf, great Scottish minds and innovations and our rich ancestry, culture and heritage. All event details can be found at HomecomingScotland2009.com where the programme continues to grow.

Among the many new events featured in the guide is Iconic Burns, an outdoor spectacular in Alloway as part of the Opening Celebrations; The Intercontinental Rally Challenge, a major international motorsport event highlighting Scotland's contribution to motorsport, taking place in Perth and Kinross and Stirling in November; and Spirit of the West, a new two day whisky festival at Inveraray Castle taking place as part of Whisky Month in May.

MSPs taking part in the launch in the Scottish Parliament were First Minister Alex Salmond, Presiding Officer Alex Fergusson, Iain Gray, Annabel Goldie, Tavish Scott and Margo Macdonald.

First Minister Alex Salmond said:"Scotland's Year of Homecoming is about reuniting Scots and friends of Scotland with the aspects of commonality that bind them together, allowing them to share the pleasure and pride of our culture and heritage. That's why it is so fitting that party leaders, from across the political spectrum, have united to launch the updated programme of celebrations.

"The ever-expanding programme is bursting with fun, festivals and family-friendly events. The Year of Homecoming really does have something to offer everyone.

"With only a few weeks to go until the opening celebrations, Scotland is ready to welcome its guests ý whether they are Scots returning home, people with Scots ancestry or people who simply love our country and culture. As today's launch event proves, a love of Scotland is all you need to join in!"

Events and festivals will take place in every local authority area in the country.

Presiding Officer Alex Fergusson said: "2009 is going to be a very special year for the whole of Scotland, and the Scottish Parliament is delighted to play our part in the Homecoming Scotland celebrations. We are looking forward to supporting the programme and have already launched our own series of activities to promote the 250th anniversary of the birth of Scotland's national bard, Robert Burns."

Scottish Labour leader Iain Gray said:"Homecoming Scotland was the brainchild of former First Minister Jack McConnell to celebrate what it is to be Scottish and all aspects of our culture. What better way to mark it than on the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns. I am delighted to see how the list of events has grown and communities all over Scotland will be able to participate and welcome people from all parts of the globe to share in the celebration."

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Tavish Scott said:"Homecoming is a great opportunity to showcase Scotland and we should grasp it. 2009 needs to be a great year-round event across Scotland from Shetland to Stranraer, Aboyne and Oban."

Scottish Conservatives leader Annabel Goldie said:"This is a huge opportunity to showcase Scotland to the world. Our welcome will be warm; our country will be the backdrop; our people its ambassadors; our history compelling; our future exciting; I look forward to the Homecoming with relish."

Margo Macdonald, MSP, said:"This is a very brave venture to welcome Scots overseas home as you can pick your friends but not your relatives! There is something for everyone in the events programme and I'm sure Homecoming 2009 will be great."

Marie Christie, Project Director for Homecoming Scotland 2009 said:"Since launching the programme in June we have continued to work with the widest range of partners including local authorities, events organisers, community groups, arts and culture organisations, sports bodies, the university sector, businesses and public organisations, to deliver a comprehensive events programme. Every region of Scotland is involved and hundreds of individuals and organisations across the country are working hard to make 2009 a special year for Scotland. It's fantastic that there is such a high level of activity and support across the country. This truly is a national celebration."

The programme will continue to grow throughout the year with agencies such as the Scottish Arts Council set to announce a range of Homecoming projects supported through their Homecoming fund.

For more information and to register for programme updates visit www.homecomingscotland2009.com

Burns 250th Anniversary Celebrations Launch Homecoming Scotland 2009

Scotland's Homecoming year, created and timed to mark the 250th anniversary of our national poet Robert Burns, will officially open with a weekend of celebrations in his honour.

Over the weekend of 23rd-25th January events are planned throughout Scotland kicking off the 10-month national programme featuring more than 300 events.

The opening weekend programme includes special events in Ayrshire, Edinburgh, Dumfries and Galloway and Glasgow plus an invitation to join the World Famous Burns Supper Celebration, wherever you are in the world.

Alloway will also host the 'Homecoming Burns Supper' paying tribute to some of those who keep the legacy of Burns alive today. This event will be a centre piece for The World Famous Burns Supper Celebration, supported by The Famous Grouse. Burns suppers around the world will link up for the first time ever on www.burnssupper2009.com. Already, Burns Suppers from the Ukraine to the USA and from Canada to Scotland feature on the site.