Our themed years celebrate the very best of Scotland and its people. You’ll find a packed programme of events taking place throughout the year, as well as lots of opportunities to discover sides of Scotland you never knew existed.
2017 - Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology
From World Heritage Sites to ancient monuments, listed buildings to important battlefields, cultural traditions to captivating myths, stories and legends, the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology 2017 will be a year to enjoy the best of Scotland's historic places, icons and hidden gems.
Uncover Scotland's fascinating history.
2016 – Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design
2016 is the year we shine a spotlight on Scotland’s achievements in innovation, design and architecture. Some of the things you can enjoy this year include: a range of marvellous events at the Festival of Architecture (March – October) and the National Museum of Scotland’s 10 new galleries which will showcase internationally important collections of decorative art, design, fashion, science and technology.
2015 – Year of Food & Drink
In the Year of Food & Drink we looked at Scotland’s unique produce. Explore the unspoilt habitats that our food and drink comes from and fill your shopping basket with high quality fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat and much more.
Discover more about Scotland’s local produce using our Foodie trails eBook and whisky, our national drink with five great whisky distilleries guides.
2014 – Year of Homecoming
2014 was the Year of Homecoming, an unforgettable year in which Scotland welcomed the world to take part in a unique celebration of all that the country has to offer. With more than 1,000 fantastic events across the country, 2014 showcased the very best of Scottish arts, culture, food & drink, nature, activities, history, ancestry and much more. It also saw the opening of the Battle of Bannockburn visitor centre, the Kelpies at Helix Park, and the launch of the John Muir Way , a fantastic coast-to-coast walking route.
Find out more about your Scottish ancestry.
2013 – Year of Natural Scotland
Scotland’s outstanding natural beauty was celebrated throughout 2013. From stunning natural landscapes and surprising wildlife to art inspired by nature and delicious food & drink, Scotland’s great outdoors is a perfect playground just waiting to be explored.
Discover Scotland's landscapes and nature.
2012 – Year of Creative Scotland
Throughout 2012, we paid tribute to Scotland’s arts, culture and creative contributions. You’ll find lots of places to soak up Scotland’s creative side from galleries and theatres to craft fairs and festivals.
Find more on Scottish arts and culture.
2011 – Year of Active Scotland
In 2011 both locals and visitors were told to get active! Scotland offers plenty of great activities for you to try, from world-renowned walking and mountain biking to adrenaline-pumping activities such as kite surfing and canyoning.
Get active in Scotland yourself!