Big Burns Supper Sanctuary

Celebrate Scotland’s favourite bard with the traditional Big Burns Supper. There are traditions aplenty at this time of year, and this new festival is set to add to it with 10 days of activities. Date 19-28 January Web bigburnssupper.com Stay at Barnsoul Caravan and Camping Park Web www.barnsoul caravanpark.co.uk

Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival

For the 39th year, this festival will be hosting some of the best talent across the arts for all ages, as well as offering workshops to help in developing the next creative generation. Date 25 May-3 June Web dgartsfestival.org.uk

Dumfries Open Studios

Craftspeople and artists across Dumfries will be opening their doors for a special weekend. Download the Dumfries Art Trail map for a head start and to see the artisans and galleries that are open all year round, and the website will tell you where to head to see the artists at work in their homes and studios. Date 27-29 May Web www.dumfriesarttrail. wordpress.com Strange things are afoot in the heart of Galloway Forest as artists and creatives bring the wilderness to life with dozens of art, sculpture and science installations. This is an incredible interactive experience in the peaceful setting of the Dark Sky Park. Date TBC Web sanctuarylab.org