Having secured the backing of vital enterprise, tourism and council, the biggest ever gathering since 200 years was given a start today. Earlier, these three organizations committed to pledge £300,000 in supporting largest gathering of its kind in Scotland. However, the total expenditure for the event is estimated at £1.5 million. The rest of the amount is expected to ensue from ticket sales. 

Commemorating the 250th birth anniversary of Robert Burns, Holyrood Park is set to house a huge congregation on 25-26 July 2009, in which over 8,000 clan members and 30,000 visitors from around the globe are expected to pour in. This event is a part of a yearlong campaign titled Homecoming Scotland drive attracting those with Scots heritage to experience a homecoming.

Another event of this theme would be a World Highland Games Heavy Events Championships, in Edinburgh. This games event will host exciting athletics, heavy events, drink fair and delicious food, besides music and bands. 

The top highlight of the program at Edinburgh will feature a clan parade up the Royal Mile and historic Pageant, beckoning a phenomenal number of clans to Edinburgh. Several large clans have booked already with several others getting registered now.

Steve Cardownie, City of Edinburgh Council festival and events champion remarked, "The Gathering 2009 will focus the world's attention on Scotland's culture and as hosts we will be ready to make the most of this fantastic opportunity to promote Edinburgh."