Town’s festive celebrations get off to start with Winterfest

Callander’s festive period celebrations get underway next weekend with the launch of its Winterfest.

On Saturday, November 23, the Rotary Christmas Crafts, Coffee and Lunch event takes place at the Kirk Hall from 10.30am. Entry costs £3 at the door.

On Friday, November 29, a Gala Christmas Concert is to be staged at McLaren High at 7.30pm, featuring Callander Amateur Operatic Society (CAOS), Callander Kirk Junior Choir, Callander Chorale and Callander Brass. Tickets cost £8 for adults and £4 for under 16s.

Saturday, November 30, sees the Callander Kirk Christmas Fair in the Kirk Hall from 10.30am. Entry is £3 for adults and £1.50 for child or £7 for a family of four.

Winterfest in the Square takes place that same day. Held within Ancaster Square, the day starts at 1pm with Festive Fun courtsey of the Rotary Club of Callander and West Perthshire. At 3.15pm Callander Brass will perform and at 3.45pm Santa’s Parade judging will take place with Callander and District 41 Club, with the parade leaving from the Medical Centre at 3.30pm.

The Christmas tree lights will be switched on at 4pm by Citizen of the Year 2018 Lesley Hawkins.

On Saturday, November 30, a matinee film, Aladdin, will be shown at Callander Hostel at 5pm.

Singers, Ringers and Stringers will perform at Callander Kirk at 8pm, with Song Squad, Callander Chimes and Rusty Strings. Tickets are £5 at the door.

Sunday, December 1, sees the Winterfest Gaelic

Walk from 11am. The walk goes to Bracklinn Falls where participants can learn about Gaelic in the landscape. Booking is essential by contacting julie.wilson@lochlomondtrossachs.org.

A Youth Carol Service will be staged in Callander Kirk at 6pm.

The festival comes to an end on Saturday, December 7, when Callander Brass play in the Kirk Hall from 10am. Entry costs £2.