Edinburgh: Visit our Inspiring Capital in Homecoming Year
Edinburgh is an award winning, world-class tourist destination. A must see cultural capital. From stunning skylines to sandy beaches, festivals to fireworks – the city has something for everyone, day and night.
The city is a modern day Jekyll and Hyde. The city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site lying between two extinct volcanos, Edinburgh also boasts an exceptional blend of contemporary pubs and bars, restaurants, specialist retailers and leading tourist attractions. The days can be spent exploring the city’s medieval alleyways and architecture – least not the dramatic Edinburgh Castle perched above the city centre. Nights out in Edinburgh provide an opportunity to explore the bustling bars, clubs and lively street scenes.
Edinburgh is renowned the world over for its year round festivals. During the Summer and Winter festivals the city’s streets throng with visitors from around the world.
The surrounding areas of this unique and vibrant city too offer activities to suit all tastes and budgets! 2009 sees Edinburgh extending a very warm invitation to come join us in our year long Homecoming Scotland event celebrations that will take place all over Scotland. As part of these celebrations Edinburgh will be playing host to the world’s biggest ever Clan Gathering!
St Andrew's 'DO'
Free family-friendly fun to be had by all
This year, St Andrew's Day festivities are set to make 2009 the biggest St Andrew's ‘DO' yet. Celebrations will see Edinburgh play host to a spectacular weekend of free family-friendly activities and entertainment planned from 28th-30th November as part of the Homecoming Scotland Finale celebrations. From ceilidhs to children's activities and music to interactive fun - there will be something for the whole family; and everyone is invited to come along and join in the fun. St Andrew Square Garden will play host to a family festival, offering interactive, creative activities and entertainment throughout the weekend. Set in three tents, the St Andrew's ‘DO' will highlight Scotland's achievements, key historical events and famous Scots; Scotland's ambitions and innovation, including science labs, tree planting and Gaelic language workshops; a showcase of the best of Scottish produce; and a packed programme of music and entertainment. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see top Scottish Chefs at work and pick up a few tips at the interactive cookery demonstrations. Other activities across the city will keep the family amused; including a family photo challenge; a Scottish film showcase; and a massed pipes and drums parade. Music and a ceilidh at the Hub with guest appearances by Dougie MacLean and Skerryvore will also be a fantastic highlight. Then, to bring the Homecoming Scotland Finale Celebrations to a close - an impressive firework display will light up the sky over Edinburgh Castle on St Andrew's Day.
For further information on the St Andrew's Day programme please visit: http://www.scotland.org/standrewsday