Edinburgh is gearing itself up for The Gathering . No, its not a TV series or a video game about “Immortals” chasing Duncan MacLeod around, trying to behead him. The Gathering 2009, the centerpiece of Homecoming Scotland 2009, is planned as a gigantic clan gathering, July 25 and 26 with thousands arriving in Edinburgh for Highland Games, Costumed Parades and Pageants.
Expect to see loads of tartan and to witness burley men in kilts tossing the caber and performing other traditional feats of incredible strength. The various Scottish clans will have tents where you can catch up with members of your clan from all over the world.
Thousands of clan members, proceded by their chiefs and clan banners will march up the Royal Mile from Holyrood Palace to the Castle Esplanade as part of the Clan Parade. (Don’t worry if you’re not a clan member. Those canny Scots are allowing anyone who has purchased a Passport ticket to march in the parade.)
The Clan Pageant that follows in the Castle Esplanade, promises to be a spectacular, specially commissioned show on the history of the clans with music, dancing and pipers and undisclosed surprises.
Two types of ticket are available:
- Highland Games and Scottish Festival Tickets as one or two-day passes
- The Gathering 2009 Passport with unlimited access to all events plus a guaranteed place in the Clan Parade and Pageant.
The official Gathering 2009 website is full of useful information – including how to wear your kilt and what to wear if you’re not brave enough for that breezy form of traditional Scottish dress.