Gaeldom's premier festival, the National Mod, gets under way in Dunoon today, 82 years after the event was first staged in the town.
Nearly 3000 competitors will arrive from around the world to take part in over 200 competitions with up to seven thousand visitors there to watch them.
John Morrison, chief executive of An Comunn Gaidhealach, told The Herald: "The economic impact is expected to be similar to that of last year's Royal National Mod, which took place in the Western Isles.
"Research from our survey work showed £2.1 million was spent by visitors, competitors and organisers at the 2011 event. In addition, 56% of those who attended the Western Isle Mod indicated they would definitely return in the future."
One who is returning is mother-of-four Elizabeth Townsend from the Gold Country of Northern California. She came to the 2009 Mod in Oban.
Mrs Townsend said: "I was thrilled to be a part of the Mod in 2009 Everyone welcomed us. There was an honest competitive spirit that was impressive and an effort to maintain high standards.
"This year I am very excited to be able to return. I only wish I could make the trip annually!"
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