2012 sees Scotland celebrating the Year of Creative Scotland 2012, complimenting the cultural celebrations throughout the UK in this Olympic year.

Scotland has fired imagination, encouraged invention and inspired creation for generations and in 2012, we invite visitors from the UK and across the world to experience Scotland’s cultural and creative vibrancy at first hand. With a programme of fantastic events and festivals throughout the year combined with inspiring landscapes, a rich musical and artistic heritage, and fascinating museums and galleries, there’s never been a better time to explore the creative side of Scotland. 

One of the major events taking place as part of the London 2012 Festival in Scotland are :

Speed of Light by NVA - 9 August to 1 September - Arthur’s Seat, the extinct volcano which dominates the Edinburgh city skyline will be encircled by hundreds of runners from throughout the UK, wearing specially commission lightsuits, blazing trails of patterned light over the hillside in this night-time event. Experiences this once in a lifetime spectacle, and go on to enjoy the rest of Edinburgh’s summe festivals.

While London hosts the world’s greatest sporting event, Edinburgh (only an hour away from London by plane), will be hosting the world’s greatest arts festival - actually a total of eight separate festivals collectively known as the Edinburgh Festivals, showcasing the elite and emerging of the cultural world.

But the Year of Creative Scotland 2012 is about more than festivals :

Music theatre and dance - from traditional Scottish music and Highland dancing to innovative plays and world-class musicians, and venues ranging from traditional theatres to open-air performances in historic sites and breathtaking gardens - such as an open air performance of Shakespeare’s Macbeth in the grounds of Glamis Castle, believed to have been the actual site of King Duncan’s murder - you are guaranteed a cultural experience in Scotland. More

Art, architecture and design - while Scotland’s main galleries and splendid stately homes house  Renaissance and modern masterpieces, just as thrilling is coming across a small private-owned gallery displaying the work of local artists, inspired by Scotland’s dramatic land and seascapes. Don’t miss the iconic buildings and interiors of celebrated designer, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. More

Literature and film - Scotland has inspirational settings and literary connections galore. Catch top poets and authors at some of the world's best book festivals and explore famous film settings from the Stirling of Sir William Wallace in ‘Braveheart’ to the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct that marks Harry Potter’s journey to Hogwarts. More

Crafts, fashions & textiles - Scotland is renowned for producing a fantastic range authentic crafts using traditional methods. Spend some time visiting workshops and studios across the country to discover iconic materials, beautiful garments and bespoke Scottish crafts during the Year of Creative Scotland 2012. Follow the Orkney craft trail, see Harris Tweed being hand-woven in the Isle of Lewis or see the fabulous tapestries at Edinburgh’s famous Dovecot Studios. More

Science innovation & technology - Learn more about the world we live in at some fantastic hands-on attractions throughout the country, or visit one of our science festivals where fascinating talks, fun exhibitions and interactive events bring science to life. Experience the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first revolving boat lift, the intriguing Glasgow Science Centre, and architectural splendour of the Forth Rail Bridge. More

Visit our website to find out more about Year of Creative Scotland 2012.