Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Homecoming Scotland 2009 Programme

Art on the Map 17 July - 16 August

Visit our stunning Hebridean Islands and follow the art trail. To celebrate 2009 - visit jetties, piers and ancient sites redolent of the passage of those leaving and arriving on the islands. Meet the local artists who capture and bring alive these sites, landscapes and island life. Experience this fragile and ancient land.

Tattoo Hebrides 2009/Tatu Innse Gall 7 - 8 August

Come home to Stornoway for a two day Hebridean Ceilidh! Enjoy the Lewis Highland Games and a spectacular military Tattoo, performed by 7 pipe bands. A colourful carnival leads up to a Grand Concert featuring Dougie Maclean, the 78th and Gaelic Choirs. Till dhachaigh!

1. Friday 7th August 2009 - Lews Castle Green, Stornoway

2. Saturday 8th August 2009 - Stornoway Town Centre (Carnival Event)

3. Saturday 8th August - Stornoway Sports Centre (Grand Concert Event)

Conference on Emigration from the Outer Hebrides 10 - 12 September

Meet with people from different backgrounds to learn about the remarkable story of emigration from the Hebrides over the last 250 years. Set in the beautiful landscape of South Harris, the event will include leading historians, representatives of emigrant communities and an emigration exhibition.

Isle of Barra Whisky Galore Festival 18 - 20 September

In 2009 the beautiful island of Barra is hosting the first ever 'Whisky Galore Festival'. Launching in Kismul Casle, an exciting weekend is planned. Take part in the hunt for Whisky on the island where Whisky Galore was born; enjoy the craic with the locals; or take part in the golf tournament.