In 2009, Scotland will celebrate its first ever ‘homecoming year’, marking the 250th anniversary of the Scottish poet’s birth, Robert Burns.

On Monday 16th June, the programme of events was unveiled at Edinburgh Castle.  The plan includes Scottish clan gatherings, contemporary art exhibitions and more.

Burns Night weekend of the 24th - 25th January will kickstart the celebrations with parties across the country, including the birthplace of Burns, Ayrshire.

Glasgow will be hosting the Celtic Connections festival for almost a month from 24th January to 1st February, celebrating Burn’s influence on the celtic music.

A huge art exhibition will be at Glasgow’s Mitchell Library from April to September, including old and new artists.

The project director for Homecoming Scotland, Marie Christie, said the programme was the beginning of many more events and celebrations to come, and said:

“‘We think there is something in the programme for everyone and we hope Scots, and those who love Scotland, at home and abroad will join the celebrations in 2009.”