Scotland Events

Homecoming 2009 kicks off Homecoming Scotland 2009 will celebrate some of Scotland's great contributions to the world with a year-long, country-wide programme of exciting and inspirational events and activities. The festivities will kick off on `January 25th, the 250th birthday of one of Scotland's most famous sons, our national poet, Robert Burns and until St Andrew's Day (November 30th) you'll be spoilt for choice with a fantastic array of things to see and do.

See our feature on page29 for more info ScotlandEvents Up Helly Aa Shetland, 27th January 2009 The abiding influence of the Vikings, who arrived in Shetland more than 1000 years ago, is celebrated on the last Tuesday of January every year, by the largest fire festival in Europe.

After a torch-light procession of up to a thousand ‘guizers' through the streets of Lerwick a full-size replica Viking longship is ceremonially burned. The guizers and onlookers then repair to local halls for a night of revelry, dancing and partying.

www.uphellyaa.org UPDATE UPDATE Tickets for The Gathering 2009 are now on sale On 25th and 26th July 2009 Edinburgh will witness one of the largest clan gatherings in history, as part of next year's historic Homecoming celebrations. Holyrood Park will host a magnificent Highland Games over the two days, and on the Saturday evening clan members will parade up the historic Royal Mile and take their seats on the castle esplanade for a spectacular Clan Pageant.Visit www.clangathering.org to buy ...

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• By : Sally Toms
• In : Events
• Issue : 41
• Page : 12
• Words : 322