Scots are being urged to take part in some of the hundreds of events taking place across the country to mark Homecoming.
National tourism agency VisitScotland has launched a £500,000 campaign aimed at attracting those living in Scotland, and north England and Northern Ireland, to the 430 Homecoming events.
The marketing campaign, which includes a television advert, was kicked off by tourism minister Fergus Ewing in Edinburgh.
The Year of Homecoming 2014 is a 12-month programme of events running alongside the Ryder Cup and Commonwealth Games.
They include a re-enactment of the Battle of Bannockburn, a Big Burns Supper and an array of food and drink events and festivals across the country.
Mr Ewing said: “The world-class events planned for Homecoming 2014 create a huge opportunity for Scotland, boosting our tourism industry and wider economy and positioning our country on the international stage as a dynamic and creative nation.”
VisitScotland chairman Mike Cantlay said: “Homecoming is not only about Scottish people welcoming others from around the world to celebrate their home country, it’s about Scots themselves, opening their doors to the rich culture and history all around them.
“It’s going to be a truly amazing year.”