Homecoming Scotland 2009

National Geographic Photographer Jim Richardson traveled to Scotland in January to document the momentous beginning of Scotland's year-long Homecoming celebrations. Throughout his journey, Jim encountered the people and places that Scotland is famous for, from traditional musicians to Burns aficionados, from the rivers and mountains of Perthshire to the golf courses and whisky distilleries of Islay, and local characters met along the way. He also was able to document the Homecoming Scotland launch celebrations in Dumfries, an old haunt of our national poet Robert Burns.

Homecoming Scotland 2009 is a year-long celebration of all things Scottish. 2009 marks the 250^th anniversary of Robert Burns's birth and from January 24, the start of Burns's 250^th Anniversary Weekend, through to the Homecoming Finale Weekend around St. Andrew's Day on November 30, more than 300 major events and festivals will pay homage to Scotland as the home of Burns, Whisky, Golf, Clans, and Great Minds and Innovations.

Whether you have Scottish roots or you're simply a Scot at heart, come join us and be a part of Homecoming Scotland 2009. And check out Jim's journey in the galleries above.