Scotland: Events in Scotland - From Highland Games to Hogmanay

I am a Scot. I'm loyal to the end. In 2009, I am going home. Why are you a Scot?

SEARCH EVENTS

It is true - the Scots really do know how to enjoy a party. 2009 is packed with events including the well-established Highland Games circuit, Edinburgh's International Festivals and, of course, nationwide Hogmanay revelry. Check out whisky festivals in Islay and Speyside and food festivals in Mull, Loch Lomond, Shetland and Grampian. Glasgow comes alive to the sound of pipes with the Piping Live and the World Pipe Band Championships in August.

No matter what time of year you are planning your trip to Scotland, there is always so much to see and do. Here you can see a list of events where you will always be warmly welcomed in on the celebrations.

Featured Events

Royal Highland Show June 25-28 One of the UK's iconic Agricultural Shows,The Royal Highland Show is a 4 day festival attracting over 155,000 visitors. More

Scottish Real Ale Festival June 25-27 The Scottish Real Ale Festival is organised by the Scottish branches of The Campaign for Real Ale, in partnership with SIBA Scotland (Society of Independent Brewers). More

The Original Export: Stories of Scottish Emigration June 26 - October 11 The National Library of Scotland celebrates Homecoming year by inviting you to follow the experiences of the ordinary Scots who over the centuries left their homeland to find a better life abroad. More

Wick HarbourFest Homecoming 2009 June 26-28 HarbourFest Homecoming 2009 celebrates the maritime and cultural heritage of the herring industry of Caithness. More

Gigha Music Festival - The Homecoming June 26-30 The Gigha Music Festival is an exciting cultural feast, which will have an extended 5-day run especially for Homecoming Year. More

Dumfries Family History Homecoming Fair June 27-27 Dumfries Family History Homecoming Fair explores local heritage with a day of stalls, heritage groups, talks and a local library and archive service. More

Ceres Highland Games June 27-27 Ceres Highland Games welcomes Homecomers to the oldest FREE games in Scotland. More

The Ellisland Childrens Quiz June 28-28 An open day for children to see the exhibits and the house that Robert Burns built, enjoy walks and entertainment and take part in a quiz graded in age groups. More

East Neuk Festival July 1-5 During Homecoming Year enjoy five days of great music and literature in the East Neuk of Fife. More

The White Heather Club July 1 - September 30 The new White Heather Club has been formed to showcase an exciting and diverse new generation of Scottish dancers, singers and musicians. More

The Scottish Traditional Boat Festival July 2-5 Over four spectacular days in picturesque Portsoy, explore your roots and take part in a colourful celebration of Scotland's great maritime heritage. More

The Scottish Game Fair July 3-5 The Scottish Games Fair held in the spectacular grounds of Scone Palace provides a wide range of entertainment for all the family during Homecoming year. More

Tarbert Seafood Festival July 4-5 Fantastic harbour side event in one of the west coast of Scotland�s most picturesque fishing villages. More

Donnie Munro - An Turas Concert July 5-5 The former member of Runrig has created a moving musical landscape with powerful arrangements and tunes in a concept piece called An Turas. More

Cupar Highland Games July 5-5 Cupar Highland Games provides an afternoon of 'Scottish' entertainment for Homecoming year. More

Ceolas Uibhist July 5-10 Ceolas is an annual event which explores the vital connections between Scottish traditional music, Gaelic song and dance. More

I kent his faither: Musselburgh's People Past and Present July 6-25 'I kent his faither' celebrates the contribution that Musselburgh's people have made to major events through the ages. More

Coming Back to A Place July 6 - September 2 A celebration of Scottish poetry through visual art. More

The Barclays Scottish Open July 9-12 For a week in July the eyes of the golfing world focus on one of the most beautiful golf courses on the planet. More

T in the Park July 10-12 Scotland's biggest music festival hosts a spectacularly eclectic bill of over 180 home-grown and international artists who play over 12 stages. More

Scottish Perthshire Hill Rally July 10-11 The 15th year of the UK's now premier Cross Country vehicle rally will draw numerous international competitors to come home to Perthshire this Summer. More

Zig Zag. The Paths of Robert Burns (Dumfries) July 11 - August 31 For the first time ever, some of the 36,000 objects from Scotland's national collection of treasures associated with Robert Burns will be brought together in a major touring exhibition. More

Classic Malts Cruise July 11-25 The annual 'Classic Malts' Cruise attracts sailors from around the world to the famous scenery and distilleries of Scotland's West Coast. More

The Famous Alva Games July 11-11 The Famous Alva Games, the last surviving games and sports in Clackmannanshire, is proud to support Homecoming. More

Echt, Skene & Midmar Agricultural Show July 11-11 Echt Show will be opening its gates for the 156th year, hosting traditional Scottish fare and events. More

Forres Highland Games July 11-11 The 81st Forres Highland Games takes place in the beautiful natural amphitheatre of Grant Park, Forres. More

Feis Tir A Mhurain July 13-17 Feis Tir a Mhurain, the Gaelic Medium Feis is held annually in July in South Uist. More

The Open Championship July 15-19 Scotland is recognised as the birthplace of Golf and The Open will provide one of the focal points for the year of Homecoming in 2009. More

Hebridean Celtic Festival July 15-18 The Hebridean Celtic Festival is a flagship Scottish cultural event that has earned an international reputation for quality cutting edge programming. More

Art on the Map 2009 July 17 - August 16 Visit our stunning Hebridean islands and follow the art trail. More

The Hidden Jewel July 17-23 Walk with the drama as it unfolds in the gathering evening against the stunning medieval backdrop of Dunollie Castle in Oban. More

North East Clan Fortnight (Aberdeen City) July 18 - August 3 The North East Clan Fortnight starts off with the welcoming clan ball held in Haddo House and also includes Aboyne Highland Games... More

Masters World Championships at Inverness Highland Games July 18-19 Join us at the Inverness Highland Games for one of the most spectacular Games ever staged in the Scottish Highlands. More

North East Clan Fortnight (Aberdeenshire) July 18 - August 3 Aberdeen City and Shire present a unique programme of Homecoming celebrations in the North East. More

Blas na Fasaich (Taste of the Wilderness) July 18-18 Taste of the Wilderness festival highlights the best of local Highland food production from croft, farm, moor, loch and sea. More

Highlander Challenge World Championships July 18-19 In Homecoming year, witness an event that echoes the war games of our Highland ancestors, from wrestling, shiltron jousting and stone carrying to the traditional highland throws. More

The Loch Lomond Highland Games July 18-18 Taking place on the banks of Loch Lomond at one of the most beautiful locations in Scotland, the Balloch Loch Lomond Highland Games offers a hearty taste of iconic Highland culture and a warm welcome to Homecomers from around the world. More

Taynuilt Highland Games July 18-18 2009 will see Taynuilt's 140th Highland Games. More

Failte Clann Macaonghais July 19-19 FAILTE - CLAN MACAONGHAIS - SEIRBHIS GHAIDHLIG (with English translation) will be conducted by Rev Dr Alexander Emsley Nimmo, Dean of Aberdeen and Orkney. More

International Junior Curling Camp July 19-25 Scotland's first International Curling Camp will be led by elite coaches from around the world. More

Stromness Shopping Week July 19-25 For over 60 years Stromnessians have been coming home for Shopping Week.This unique week-long gala began in 1948 and has grown in popularity and scale year upon year. More

International Genealogy Festival July 21-24 In celebration of the Year of Homecoming, University of Strathclyde hosts Scotland�s first International Genealogy Festival. More

Burns Summer School July 21-25 The Burns Summer School will celebrate the life, works and legacy of Robert Burns, particularly in Dumfries, during the celebration of the 250th anniversary of his birth. More

National Trust for Scotland Opera, Ae Fond Kiss July 21-28 �Ae Fond Kiss� is a tale of two people, Burns and Clarinda, ending on a note of poignant sorrow, directed by Edinburgh�s Iain McFarlane. More

MacRobert's Reply July 23-30 Devastated by the tragic loss of her three sons, Lady Rachel MacRobert, a Scottish baronet�s American widow, fought back by buying a Stirling bomber for the RAF. More

Mauchline Homecoming Marquee July 24-26 Held at the farm where Burns penned some of the world's best poems, this 3 day community event celebrates Burns' outstanding contributions to poetry. More

The Wickerman Festival July 24-25 The Wickerman Festival has developed a national reputation for offering something more than simply a 'gig in a field'. More

The Gathering 2009 July 25-26 Be a part of history; join clan members from around the world to witness Scotland's largest ever Highland Games in the inspiring Holyrood Park. More

The Big Tent July 25-26 Big Tent extends an invitation to Scots around the world to visit in 2009. More

Bridge of Allan, Callander, Killin, Lochearnhead July 25 - August 2 Situated in spectacular settings, the Stirling area plays host to an annual selection of high quality Highland Games throughout the summer months. More

Doon Hame with Burns Conference July 25-25 Doon Hame with Robert Burns will celebrate the life, works and legacy of the poet at Ellisland and Dumfries during the celebration of the 250th anniversary of his birth. More

European Pipe Band Championships July 25-25 The 2009 European Pipe Band Championships will be held in Battery Park, Greenock on July 25 2009. Greenock was the place where many people left Scotland for a new life abroad. More

The Scottish Diaspora Forum July 25-25 The first Scottish Diaspora Forum, held in the Scottish Parliament, will explore the rich potential of the global Scots family. More

The Ellisland Farm Supper July 25-25 An evening of entertainment and hamely fare with farmers, ploughmen, tradesmen and their partners in traditional costume. More

The Talisker Taste Experience at The Gathering 2009 July 25-26 Discover the distinct and different flavours of the Classic Malts from the Highlands, Islands and Lowland distilleries. More

Luss Highland Gathering July 26-26 The first Luss Highland Games were held in 1875, and have been held annually since. More

Wolfstone July 26-26 Celebrating 20 years and the Year of Homecoming, Wolfstone will perform a fantastic set at Pitlochry Festival Theatre. More

Homecoming Scotland Leadership Conference July 27-27 The 2009 Homecoming Scotland Leadership Conference will feature formal presentations and workshops throughout the day. More

The World Clan Golf Championship July 27-29 To commemorate one of the largest clan gatherings in history coming to Edinburgh in July 2009, ensure your clan is represented by entering the inaugural World Clan Golf Championship in neighbouring East Lothian. More

Clan Maclaine of Lochbuie Gathering July 27-29 The 2009 Clan Maclaine of Lochbuie Gathering, celebrating 700 years of the Clan will take place on Mull and at Lochbuie. More

Speyfest 2009 July 28 - August 2 Now in its fourteenth year, Speyfest 2009 will once again bring the best in traditional and contemporary celtic music. More

Aberdeen International Youth Festival July 29 - August 8 Aberdeen International Youth Festival (AIYF) is a multi-arts festival in Aberdeen and across the North East of Scotland welcoming around 1000 young people from across the UK and the World. More

Clan Cameron Gathering July 30 - August 2 From 30th July until 2nd August, 2009, the Clan Cameron are holding a Homecoming Gathering at Achnacarry Castle, Spean Bridge. More

Scottish Challenge July 30 - August 2 The Scottish Challenge will be played at the magnificent Macdonald Spey Valley Golf Club, from Thursday 30th July - Sunday 2 August 2009. More

Guildtown Bluegrass Music Festival 2009 July 31 - August 3 Bill Monroe, the 'father of Bluegrass music' credited his own Scottish ancestry and Celtic musical inheritance as key influences upon his playing. More

Aboyne Highland Games August 1-1 Dating from 1867, Aboyne Games, on the first Saturday of August, includes heavy and light events, dancing, bagpipes and massed pipe bands. Aboyne is the only Games where most NE clans are represented so clansfolk can meet their Chief at their Clan tent and join the March of the Clans. More

This Is Who We Are (Glasgow) August 1 - September 30 This exhibition demonstrates the strong influence of Scots abroad when they travelled and named 1000 Canadian towns after their homeland. More

Aberdeen's Tartan Day: Featuring The Gordon Highlanders International Beating Retreat August 2-2 Aberdeen�s Homecoming Tartan Day will be a day of fun for all the family � the highlight, a spectacular parade down Union Street with pipe bands, celebrities and youth festival performers. More

Turriff Show August 2-3 Turriff Show is the largest two-day agricultural show in Scotland - but it's not just a show for farmers! The Show takes place over 2 days (2-3 August) with a special opening concert on 31st July. More

Creative Connections Shetland August 3-9 Be inspired by Shetland's remote location, rugged landscape and distinctive heritage and enjoy our rich culture and heritage. More

Edinburgh Art Festival August 5 - September 5 During Homecoming Year, spend time with the visual literati and experience why the 21st Century is the dawn of the visual Enlightenment. More

Bennachie Homecoming Festival August 5-9 Bennachie Homecoming Festival aims to celebrate the natural and cultural legacy of Bennachie and its relevance to the Scottish Diaspora. More

'The Girls of Slender Means' by Muriel Spark, adapted by Judith Adams August 6-31 See the work of Muriel Spark, one of the greatest Scottish novelists of modern times, come to life during Homecoming Year. More

Edinburgh Mela Festival August 7-9 For Homecoming Year, Edinburgh Mela Festival features an exciting inter-cultural music and dance commission, 'Yatra � Journeys Home'. More

Homecoming at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe August 7-31 The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is unique - the largest arts festival on the planet which brings thousands of performances to Scotland's capital city and where many international stars have made their names. More

Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival August 7-8 Now in its sixth year, Belladrum is an eagerly anticipated landmark in the Scottish festival calendar. More

Tattoo Hebrides 2009 / Tatu Innse Gall August 7-8 Come home to Stornoway for a two day Hebridean Ceilidh! More

Ayr Flower Show August 7-9 The Ayr Flower Show is Scotland's premier horticultural event - often referred to as the Chelsea of the North. More

Edinburgh Military Tattoo August 7-29 The Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of Scotland's most iconic events presents a unique blend of music and military theatre at Edinburgh Castle. More

North Berwick Highland Games August 8-8 During the summer of Homecoming year combine fun, history and spectacle at the North Berwick Highland Games. More

Asto Small Ships Race August 8-11 On 8th August the first of the small ships fleet of monohull yachts will arrive at Greenock's Harbours to mark the start of the 2009 Association of Sail Training Organisations (ASTO) Small Ships' Race. More

Piping Live! Music of the Clans August 10-16 Hear the best in piping music from around the world in Glasgow. More

Taste of the Tattoo (Glasgow) August 11-11 In celebration of Scotland�s Year of Homecoming, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the first time in its history, will also be going on tour to selected venues. More

The Clan Ross Gathering August 12-13 A Gathering of the Clan Ross is called on the 12th and 13th of August in the Year of Homecoming 2009. More

Ballater Highland Games August 13-13 Ballater Highland Games, dating back to 1864, offers a full programme of entertaining events for Homecoming year. More

Taste of the Tattoo (Linlithgow) August 13-13 In celebration of Scotland�s Year of Homecoming, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the first time in its history, will also be going on tour. More

Marymass August 13-24 The Festival of Marymass dates back to the Middle Ages and the rich pageantry of this fair draws old Irvinites home in August each year. More

Edinburgh International Festival August 14 - September 6 The 2009 Edinburgh International Festival programme will put Homecoming and Enlightenment themes in contemporary and surprising contexts. More

Burns in the Mearns August 14-16 Weekend event consisting of a Burns Supper and Ceilidh featuring well known Scottish personalities on Friday evening. More

Edinburgh International Book Festival August 15-31 The Edinburgh International Book Festival, the largest celebration of the written word in the world will create a series of special events for the 2009 Festival More

The World Pipe Band Championships August 15-15 8,000 pipes & drums, 200 bands, 1 world champion! More

LANARK MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL August 15-16 Times vary A historic re-enactment of Vikings and Scotland's Wars of Independence. Now in its third year, the weekend also boasts archery competitions, combat displays, birds of prey, jesters and trade stalls More

The Phoenix Cup August 16-21 The Phoenix Cup is a team match play golf event, played much like the Ryder Cup and is for blind and vision impaired players from countries around the world. More

Festival of Politics August 18-22 The Festival of Politics 2009, featuring events to mark both the Year of Homecoming and the 10th Anniversary of the Scottish Parliament takes place at the Scottish Parliament. More

Mull of Kintyre Music and Arts Festival - 'Cradle of the Nation' August 20-23 The Mull of Kintyre Music and Arts Festival - 'Cradle of the Nation' is a leading traditional/contemporary music event featuring internationally renowned artists with fringe and tuition events, a festival club, parades and street entertainment. More

Taste of the Tattoo (Dumfries House, Cumnock) August 20-20 In celebration of Scotland�s Year of Homecoming, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the first time in its history, will also be going on tour. More

Foodies at the Festival August 21-23 A great day out for the all the family, Foodies Festival features Young Cooks masterclasses for budding young chefs. More

Cleveland Golf / Srixon Scottish Senior Open August 21-23 The Cleveland Golf/Srixon Scottish Senior Open will be held over the redesigned Torrance course at Fairmont St Andrews from August 21-23. More

Melrose Pipe Band Championships and Highland Dance Contest August 22-22 In August 2009 more than twenty pipe bands and highland dance groups will compete in the largest pipe band competition in the South of Scotland. More

Lonach Highland Gathering and Games August 22-22 Catch the March of the Lonach Highlanders early on 22nd August in the village of Bellabeg. More

Scotland's Festival of History: Lanark Medieval Festival August 22-23 Take a walk through 1800 years of history at Scotland's Festival of History to discover where Wallace began the 'Braveheart' story, making Scotland the country it is today. More

UK Outdoor Tug of War Championships 2009 August 22-23 The UK Outdoor Tug of War Championships will return home many exiled Scots and their descendants scattered across the UK in 2009. More

Open Day for Descendants of Burns and his Associates August 23-23 A special chance to meet others whose ancestry can be linked to Robert Burns. More

North of Scotland Champion of Champions August 23-23 Don't miss the next round of this annual competition at Aden Country Park, Mintlaw. More

Johnnie Walker Championship August 27-30 The Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles is one of the most exciting sporting events held in Scotland. More

Taste of the Tattoo (Jedburgh) August 27-27 In celebration of Scotland�s Year of Homecoming, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the first time in its history, will also be going on tour. More

The Silver Darlings August 28 - September 5 Neil Gunn�s The Silver Darlings is an epic adventure story, and one of the best loved Scottish novels of the 20th Century. More

Trossachs Beer Festival August 28 - September 6 The Trossachs Beer Festival is a celebration of the quality of Scottish Real Ales. More

Fyvie Homecoming Festival August 28-30 Come home to the beautiful and historic village of Fyvie in Aberdeenshire and enjoy the village's own Homecoming celebrations. More

Runrig at Scone Palace August 29-29 Scotland's premier Celtic rock band join the Homecoming festivities and take centre stage in the magnificent parklands of historic Scone Palace. More

Scottish Hickory Open August 29-30 The Scottish Hickory Open is being established for the first time as a true open competition for all club golfers with a valid official handicap certificate. More

STRATHAVEN HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL August 29-30 Times vary Hot air balloon festival with balloons flying early morning and evening and stalls and rides for children. Weather dependent. More

Kirkintilloch Canal Festival August 29-30 The Kirkintilloch Canal Festival celebrates the town and the Forth and Clyde Canal which runs through its heart. More

St Kilda Day: Latha Hiort August 29 - September 30 'Caite a bheil iad a nis?/Where are they now?' will mark the evacuation of St Kilda in 1930 More

Cowal Gathering August 29-29 An international extravaganza for the Homecoming in 2009 complementing the Cowal Highland Gathering. More

Largs Viking Festival August 30 - September 6 The Viking Festival celebrates the town�s historical heritage with an 8-day programme of special events. More

Doors Open Days September 1-30 A unique opportunity to get behind-the-scenes of some of Scotland's best-loved and least-known architectural gems for free. More

Tam O' Shanter 2009 September 1-30 Experience the best young Scottish talent bring Robert Burns' epic poem to life in a series of unforgettable live performances. More

Scottish Archaeology Month September 1 - October 1 Archaeology Scotland brings the story of Scotland's past to life this autumn! More

Scottish Ballet - 40th Anniversary Exhibition September 1-30 You are invited to join the 40th anniversary Season of Scottish Ballet... More

Homecoming 2009 - Canals, Roads and Bridges September 4-25 Who was Thomas Telford? How did this incredible Scottish engineer transform the Highlands of Scotland at the beginning of the 19th century? Take a relaxing 3 hour cruise on the flagship of our fleet, the Jacobite Queen. More

Dundee Flower & Food Festival September 4-6 Set in the magnificent grounds of Camperdown Country Park, with over two acres of marquees, the Dundee Flower & Food Festival is the premier show of its kind in Scotland. More

Brass In The Park September 4-6 Celebrate the culture and traditions of Midlothian's towns and villages at Scotland's largest annual outdoor brass band festival. More

Blas Festival September 4-12 A warm welcome awaits you in the Highlands for the 2009 Blas Festival. More

TECH FEST September 4-21 Times vary An annual festival of science, technology, engineering and mathematics that aims to engage children and adults of all ages in all spheres of science with a series of schools programmes and workshops, public lectures and a family activities weekend. More

Orkney International Science Festival September 5-7 Burns said it then, and the Earth Charter says it today: we must respect all living beings on earth. More

In the Footsteps of the Reivers September 5-13 Exhilarating walks in the Scottish Borders combine with the rich and bloody history of the Border Reivers. More

Braemar Gathering September 5-5 Experience a real Highland event during Homecoming year at the Braemar Gathering. More

The Great Scottish Run September 5-6 The Great Scottish Run is Scotland's greatest race and the largest mass participation sporting event in the country, including half marathon, 10k and 3k Junior runs. More

Scotland�s Countryside Festival September 5-6 Scotland's Countryside Festival is a spectacular weekend of events which celebrate Scotland's rural culture and traditions. More

Edinburgh Riding of the Marches September 6-6 On Sunday 6th September 2009, Edinburgh is reviving one of its oldest traditions. The practice of Riding The Marches in Edinburgh dates back to 1579 and will be held again this year for the first time since 1946. More

Whisky Week September 6-12 A week long celebration of Scotch whisky! More

Tomintoul and Glenlivet Walking Festival September 9-15 Tomintoul and Glenlivet Walking Festival 'The Highland Experience' is the first festival of its kind and has been deliberately placed in the year of Homecoming. More

Island Emigrants: Conference on Emigration from the Outer Hebrides September 10-12 Meet with people from different backgrounds to learn about the remarkable story of emigration from the Hebrides over the last 250 years. More

eatBute September 11-13 eatBute is an exciting food event which will be held over three days, during Scottish Food Fortnight, at Mount Stuart, Isle of Bute. More

The Scottish Fiddle Orchestra (Glasgow) September 12-12 The Scottish Fiddle Orchestra presents a fun-filled evening of lively and nostalgic music and song, including themes of Burns and Homecoming. More

RAF Leuchars Airshow September 12-12 The last official military Airshow of its type in Scotland and one of only three in the UK the RAF Leuchars Airshow 2009 will take place on Saturday 12 September. More

Pitlochry Highland Games September 12-12 If strength, speed, agility and skill are the corner stones of Highland games, then all of these will be on display in the picturesque Perthshire town of Pitlochry on Saturday 12 September 2009. More

North East Open Studios September 12-21 North East Open Studios (NEOS) is an award winning collective of artists, makers and galleries based in northeast Scotland run on voluntary grounds as a community organisation. More

The Royal Burgh of Peebles Highland Games September 13-13 Come to he Royal Burgh of Peebles Highland Games and experience traditional Scottish events such as Highland dancing, a pipe band contest, heavy events, a beer tent and trade stalls. More

Isle of Barra Whisky Galore Festival September 18-20 In 2009 the beautiful island of Barra is hosting the first ever 'Whisky Galore Festival'. More

Battle of Prestonpans 1745 Reenactments September 18-19 Bonnie Prince Charlie's famous victory at the Battle of Prestonpans is re-enacted each year .. More

Leaving Home: Migration to and from Scotland September 19 - October 31 Leaving Home is an exciting, interactive exploration of emigration and immigration... More

Scottish Hydro Electric Camanachd Cup Final 2009 September 19-19 The Scottish Hydro Electric Camanachd Cup is the premier event in the Shinty Calendar and is the most coveted piece of silverware in the sport. More

The Ellis Horse Ploughing Match September 20-20 This is a fascinating competition featuring horses and ploughmen. More

The Musselburgh International Hickory Challenge September 20-21 Hickory golf grows and grows and the Musselburgh International Hickory Challenge generates world-wide interest. More

Zig Zag. The Paths of Robert Burns (Glasgow) September 21 - November 30 For the first time ever, some of the 36,000 objects from Scotland's national collection of treasures associated with Robert Burns will be brought together in a major touring exhibition. More

James Watt, Head of Steam September 23-24 One hundred and twenty Inverclyde schoolchildren and Scottish Opera perform 'James Watt, Head of Steam' - a short opera based on the life and times of world-renowned Scottish scientist James Watt. More

Clan Scott Society Gathering 2009 September 24-27 The first ever international gathering of Clan Scott at its ancestral home, Bowhill, in the Scottish Borders. More

Ice Hockey�s Homecoming September 24-27 Celebrate Homecoming Year with the fastest team sport on the planet! More

The Stena Line Wigtown Book Festival September 25 - October 4 Set in the idyllic Galloway countryside, Wigtown's festival hosts some of the biggest names in books. More

The Memory Projector: Celebrating Beautiful Journeys September 25-27 A unique theatre project on the banks of the River Clyde. More

Angus & Dundee Roots Festival September 26 - October 4 The Angus and Dundee Roots Festival will provide a focus for people with ancestral roots in the area, encouraging them to visit and find out more about their ancestral homeland. More

Tillidh Mi Dhachaidh - I Will Return Home September 26 - October 16 Tillidh Mi Dhachaidh - 'I Will Return Home' - an Arts project spanning three weeks in Autumn More

Public Lecture by Neal Ascherson: "Brothers and sisters for a' That': Rediscovering the Polish-Scottish Relationship' chaired by Professor Tom Devine October 1-2 A major two-day international conference on 'Scotland and Poland a Historical Relationship, 1500 - 2009'. More

A Symphony of Scottish Industry October 1 - November 30 Come and experience a shimmering example of the best in contemporary Scottish composition. More

Alfred Dunhill Links Championship October 1-4 A unique event with the world�s leading professional golfers playing alongside amateurs over three of the world�s best known links courses (St Andrews, Carnoustie, Kingsbarns) More

Scotland V Ireland: Shinty/Hurling International October 1-30 The Scottish Hydro Electric Camanachd Cup is the premier event in the Shinty Calendar and is the most coveted piece of silverware in the sport. More

FEST N' FURIOUS (DUNDEE FESTIVAL OF SCOTTISH MUSIC) October 2-5 Times vary Dundee's festival of Scottish and international traditional music is back with a packed programme of live music More

Selkirk Sessions October 2-4 A music festival in the Scottish Borders town of Selkirk. More

Fife Family History Fair - 'Home and Away: Scots on the Move' October 3-3 A Scottish family history event, the Fair looks at Scottish emigration. More

Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running October 4 Run Home to Scotland in 2009 and take part in the Run Home Breakfast Run and the Run Home Clan Challenge More

ScotSoft2009 October 8 ScotSoft2009 brings together today's great minds in a thought leadership forum for Scottish innovators and technologists. More

Cowalfest October 9-18 Cowalfest offers a special Homecoming programme that will celebrate all those who moulded the history of the Peninsula and contributed to the way we live today. More

Am M�d N�iseanta R�oghail (The Royal National Mod) October 9-17 In 2009 the Royal National MOD, Scotland's premier celebration of its Gaelic language, music and culture is going home to Oban, its birthplace. More

Crieff and Strathearn Drovers' Tryst October 10-17 Crieff and Strathearn Drovers' Tryst offer Homecomers eight days of walking, socialising and history. More

World Porridge Making Championship October 11-11 The annual World Porridge Making Championship is followed with interest by connoisseurs of Scotland's traditional national dish across the globe. More

GLASGAY! October 12 - November 8 Times vary Scotland's annual celebration of queer culture and the UK's largest multi-arts gay festival with events spanning comedy, music, film, theatre, visual art, performance art, literature, club nights, education events and comedy. More

Highland Homecoming - Ur Beatha Dhan D�thaich! October 15-31 One of the highlights of the Highlands' contribution to the Homecoming Scotland celebrations takes the form of this fortnight-long series of events More

Salt of the Earth October 16 - January 31 Salt of the Earth, is a ground breaking photographic exhibition by Craig Mackay. More

Biggar Little Festival October 16-25 Biggar Little Festival celebrates the five arts of music, dance, literature, theatre and the visual arts. More

The Enchanted Forest: Scottish Myths and Legends October 16 - November 1 Now in its 8th year Perthshire's renowned Enchanted Forest sound and light show will again be a feast for the senses during the Year of Homecoming. More

MacPhersons Rant October 18-25 MacPhersons Rant is a new musical featuring a modern arrangement of traditional Scottish songs. More

5th International Pro-Am October 20-24 Executive Golf & Leisure are delighted to invite you to the 5th International Pro-Am, St. Andrews, 20th - 24th October 2009. More

Scotland's Global Impact October 22-24 Scotland's Global Impact - how one small nation changed the world!, Buaidh Chruinneil na h-Alba - mar a dh'atharraich aon duthaich bheag an saoghal! is an international conference exploring and celebrating the way Scots have shaped countries and communities around the world. More

Trossachs International Mushroom Festival October 22-25 Fantasy, fungi, food and fun, this festival is a food, music and cultural extravaganza based on the humble mushroom. More

Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Homelands October 23 - November 1 Inspiring live storytelling performances and hands-on workshops are a fresh way of exploring Scotland's rich culture and traditions for yourself. More

SCOTTISH INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL October 23 - November 1 Times vary A celebration of oral storytelling featuring music, song, film, workshops, talks and international guests. This year's programme is still to be announced, see website for updates. More

Voices in Paisley Festival October 23 - November 10 Now in its sixth year Voices in Paisley is an annual festival of choral an other vocal music attracting national and international performers. More

Ayrshire Innovators October 23-30 In this Homecoming year which celebrates Scotland�s great contributions to the world, this exhibition will explore the impact of key innovators that lived, worked or were born in the area. More

Soldiers from Montrose (Fraser Regiment) at the Highland Folk Museum October 24-25 During the summer the Highland Folk Museum will host an exciting series of over 20 traditional activities and crafts. More

sound. North East Scotland's Festival of New Music (Aberdeen City) October 29 - November 22 sound is an exciting festival of new music in North East Scotland. More

sound. North East Scotland's Festival of New Music (Aberdeenshire) October 29 - November 22 sound is an exciting festival of new music in North East Scotland. More

Scottish Chamber Orchestra October 30-31 The Scottish Chamber Orchestra is one of Scotland's five national performing arts companies and one of the country's foremost cultural ambassadors. More

Perthshire Amber - The Dougie Maclean Festival 2009 October 30 - November 8 Internationally renowned songwriter and composer Dougie MacLean has developed a unique festival which shares his inspiring music, celebrates the history and culture of Perthshire and showcases the beautiful scenery. More

Samhuinn October 31-31 Celebrate the Celtic new year with a spectacular procession and visual pyrotechnic feast in the heart of Edinburgh. More

This Is Who We Are (Edinburgh) November 9-30 This exhibition demonstrates the strong influence of Scots abroad when they travelled and named 1000 Canadian towns after their homeland. More

RSA 183rd Annual Exhibition 2009 - HOMECOMING November 14 - December 20 The RSA Annual Exhibition is a highlight of the exhibiting year for artists, architects and members of the public. Showcasing around 350 works, it presents a comprehensive cross section of contemporary art in Scotland. More

RACMSA Rally of Scotland: The final stage of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge November 19-21 Be part of the prestigious Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) as motor sport comes home to Scotland in 2009. More

RACMSA Rally of Scotland: The final stage of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge November 19-21 Be part of the prestigious Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) as motor sport comes home to Scotland in 2009. More

SCOTS FIDDLE FESTIVAL November 20-22 Times vary Scotland's premier fiddlefest is back with lively recitals, talks, workshops, sessions and ceilidhs More

Planting Commemorative Trees in the Orchard November 22-22 An end to an active Homecoming year at Ellisland and the start of an invigorating fruit harvest in the future. More

St Andrews Festival 2009 - Scotland's Celebration November 23-30 Join us in 2009 in the iconic town of St Andrews to celebrate our nation's Patron Saint. More

The House Folk Music Festival November 26-28 Let's celebrate Scottish homecoming at St Andrews time in the beautiful Trossachs... More

Scots Trad Music Awards November 27-29 Scots Trad Music Awards are promoting an amazing weekend of music in Dumfries. More

Homecoming Scotland's Finale Weekend November 27-30 As a sensational finale to the year, Homecoming Scotland are working with some of Scotland's biggest music promoters to�present a truly unique, major celebration of Scottish Music. More

The Illuminated Art Car Parade November 28-28 Be part of the spectacular cavalcade that will celebrate Scotland's history of invention and culture. More

Scottish Borders Hill Rally November 28-29 The Scottish Borders has a long tradition of motorsports and look forward to welcoming Homecoming enthusiasts back to the country's only Cross Country vehicle forest stage rally. More

Homecoming Live November 28-28 Homecoming Live is a sensational finale to the year and the jewel in the crown of the St Andrew's Day celebratory weekend. More

St Andrew's Day Celebration November 30-30 On St Andrew's Night 2009 the University of Edinburgh will host an evening of the best of Scottish song and instrumental music from the Scots and Gaelic tradition. More

EUROPEAN CURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009 December 5-12 Times vary Aberdeen plays host to the last major international curling event before the Vancouver Winter Olympics in 2010, bringing together more than 30 nations to compete. More