Around Scotland
Aviemore Sled Dog Rally, Winter Wildlife Workshop, Blackness Castle, January 13, noon-1.30. Drop in to the castle and join local rangers to give wildlife a helping hand this winter. Create a bird feeder, bird box or mini-beast hotel in this creative workshop.
Legends Of American Country, Gaiety Theatre, Ayr, January 18. A night of toe-tapping country classics performed by four fantastic singers, backed by a top-class band.
The Ghosting Of Robert Burns, Eastwood Park Theatre, Giffnock, January 27. James Mackenzie stars as the Bard giving dating advice in Gillian Duffy’s comedy-drama. www.eastwoodparktheatre.co.uk Strathpuffer 24, Strathpeffer, January 19-20. The 24-hour mountain bike endurance event that attracts competitors from around the world. It started in 2005 as a one-off, but now is a national contest with legendary status. The exciting event is open to solos, pairs and to teams of four and eight. www.strathpuffer.co.uk
Peebles Outdoor Film Festival, various venues, January 25-27. A weekend of adventure films, inspiring speakers and hands-on sessions.
Mairi Campbell: Auld Lang Syne, Barr Community Centre, January 25. Blending storytelling, animation and new music produced by Dave Gray, Mairi explores the meaning behind one of the world’s mostperformed songs.
Fife Festival Of Music, various venues, January 28-February 8. Performers at this community festival range from primary school children to adults, in both vocal and instrumental classes, competitive and non-competitive. www.ffom.org.uk Up Helly Aa, Lerwick, January 29. This famous event takes place on the last Tuesday in January every year and involves a series of marches that culminate in a torch-lit procession and the burning of a galley. Up Helly Aa is a tradition that dates back to Victorian times. For more information go to www.uphellyaa.org
Royal Marine Band Of Scotland, Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline, January 31. A concert that will showcase the wonderful variety the band possesses, from classical overtures to military marches and West End favourites.
Februaryfest, Clachaig Inn, Glencoe, starts February 1. Live music, quiz nights, whisky features, Scottish gin nights, great food and – maybe – lots of snow. Phone 01855 811252.
Hebridean Dark Skies Festival, various venues, Isle of Lewis, February 8-21. Programme of events featuring stargazing, workshops, lectures, film, music and much more. www.lantair.com/darkskies