Scotland is throwing a party and you’re invited! Throughout 2014, Scotland Homecoming will be celebrated with a plethora of events that showcase the country’s distinct identity. The world is invited to celebrate with cultural programs, active endeavors, events that honor ancestral traditions and natural landscapes, as well as the unique flavors of Scottish food and drink.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

For 64 years, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been a masterpiece of showmanship renowned throughout the world for its pageantry and precision. The tattoo is a ‘global gathering’ of 1,000 musicians and dancers from all over the world. They perform with pomp and ceremony in waves of color and movement. Audiences also come from all corners of the globe to witness the Massed Pipes and Drums, the Massed Highland Dancers and inspiring Massed Military Bands perform drills on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo runs from 1 – 23 August 2014 with two-hour performances nightly Mondays – Fridays and two evening performances on Saturdays. There are no performances on Sundays. Tickets are available from £25 in advance. All profits go to service and civilian charities. Travel Maestro tip: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has never been canceled, so be prepared to be wowed, regardless of the weather.

Food and Drink Celebrations

Scotland is known for its national drink, whisky, so naturally “The Water of Life” plays a part in Homecoming Scotland celebrations. The month of May is deemed Whiskey Month and includes World Whiskey Day on May 17, 2014. Follow the Malt Whiskey Trail through the picturesque landscape of Speyside and enjoy a dram at seven working distilleries.

Foodie festivals, farmer’s markets and fine dining are also part of the celebration. Cheeses, game meats and craft beers are a specialty and Scotland boasts 16 Michelin-starred restaurants, five of which are in Edinburgh.

Scottish Arts and Culture

One of the Homecoming highlights this summer will be the traveling display of the Scottish Diaspora Tapestry. Volunteers from 25 communities around the world created panels representing stories of their personal Scottish roots and immigration to or from Scotland. 200 embroidered panels will be joined together to pay homage to Scottish heritage and culture in one magnificent tapestry. It is scheduled to be on view in Edinburg August 6 – 31, 2014.

 

Edinburgh is known as “Festival City” and August offers more events than can possibly be listed here or visited in one trip!

• The Edinburg International Festival is the oldest, begun in 1947, and concentrates on high art – opera, theater, classical music and dance. TM tip: Don’t miss the closing performance of a classical music concert with a fabulous synchronized fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle.
• The Edinburg Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world and offers open access to thousands of performances in hundreds of venues across Edinburgh, from burlesque to poetry readings to street buskers. TM tip: There’s literally a Fringe show for every conceivable taste.
• The International Book Festival hosts over 750 authors for intellectual discussions at cafes and bookstores in Charlotte Square Gardens. TM tip: Edinburgh is the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.
• Edinburgh Arts Festival runs free artistic tours of a huge variety of exhibitions, including tours by bike and the popular Tourist-in-Residence programs. TM tip: Tickets are free but very popular, so book ahead.
• Edinburgh Mela is a two-day festival of world music and dance held on the Leith Links. TM tip: The Global Food Village is a cultural food bonanza.

Scotland Homecoming 2014 is chock full of exciting cultural, culinary and celebratory events that showcase the rich traditions of the country’s heritage. For more information or to plan your own Scotland Homecoming, please contact Covington Travel’s vacation specialists.