Message from First Minister Alex Salmond
On behalf of the Scottish Government, I am delighted to extend my warmest wishes to you on St Andrew's Day.
This is a day for everyone in Scotland, and our family and friends around the world, to celebrate the best of Scotland and our huge global contribution. It's a day when we recall our proud history, culture and traditions and look to the vibrant, creative and confident nation that is Scotland today.
St Andrew's Day is about enjoying ourselves and celebrating Scottish achievements. And, even at this time of global economic challenge, we can look with confidence to the future of Scotland - to our advances in key sectors like renewable energy, the life sciences, food and drink and the creative industries.
So we can look back with pride on a year when a major survey of global investors acclaimed Scotland as Europe's "place of the future". And we can look forward with confidence, knowing that the ambition and talents of our people stand our country in good stead.
This year's St Andrew's Day is particularly special because it will mark the beginning of Scotland's Winter Festival and prepares the way for the Year of Homecoming.
Inspired by the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, Homecoming 2009 will celebrate Scotland's contribution to the world - golf, whisky, great minds and innovations and Scotland's rich culture and heritage.
An inspiring programme of events across Scotland will run from Burns Night on January 25 through to St Andrew's Day, making 2009 a special year for Scots and those who love Scotland. More details can be found on our website www.homecomingscotland2009.com.
Whether you're a Scot, of Scots descent, or a friend of Scotland, we extend you a warm Scottish welcome to join us in 2009.
On behalf of the people of Scotland I send you best wishes for a wonderful St Andrew's day. 
Watch a video about St Andrew.