Tartan Day marks the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320 at Arbroath Abbey. This historical occasion sowed the seeds of modern day democracy and was used as a basis for the American Declaration of Independence. Tartan Day was inspired by this historical occasion to celebrate all that is good about Scotland - its people, its heritage, its history, its culture and its amazing legacy to the world.

The Arbroath Homecoming Weekend on 5/6 April features free entry to Arbroath Abbey, where, amongst other activities, there will be a medieval encampment, a hog roast and tours of the Abbey with a Benedictine monk. On 5 April, there will be a Taste of Angus event at Arbroath Harbour, historical re-enactments of fisher life almost 200 years ago at Arbroath's Signal Tower Museum and fire breathers, stilt walkers, jugglers and balloon modellers providing fun and entertainment along Arbroath High Street.

In addition, top Celtic rock band Gleadraich will play at Arbroath Harbour from 11-12 noon, followed by Kirriemuir's excellent Sonnet 65 from 1-2pm, while The Trybe will perform their unique combination of drums and pipes from 10am to 11am at Arbroath Abbey, from 12 noon to 1pm at Arbroath Harbour and along the High Street from 2pm to 3pm.

On 6 April - Tartan Day - there will be opportunities for people to find out how to trace their family tree at the Tayroots Family History Day at Arbroath's Webster Theatre. This event will close over lunchtime so attendees can join the crowds cheering on the Angus Massed Pipe Bands as they march from Kirk Square to the Abbey, where, from 1pm, the 1320 signing of the Declaration of Arbroath by Scotland's nobles will be re-enacted by Arbroath Abbey Timethemes.

Later that day, Auchmithie will host an evening of information, stories and music about the families who once lived in the clifftop village. This event will include the première of a new song which has been written specially for the Tartan Day Scotland Festival 2014.

The Homecoming Weekend in Arbroath is only the start of the packed Tartan Day Scotland Festival programme. Until the Festival closes on April 13, there will be activities for all interests and all ages, including ceilidhs, farmers' markets, pipe bands, highland dancing competitions and special Tartan Day menus highlighting Angus' excellent local food and drink. And, for those keen for another opportunity to uncover their Scottish roots, on April 11, the Tartan Day at Angus Archives will provide a chance to study the unique records and documents held there.