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Events across Scotland

Something on every day

Gathered from across Scotland every day and written in our own words, with the big ones photographed by us.

What is on near you

A postcode, a town or a village, or let your phone say where you are. Every event then tells you how far it is.

Monday

19 October
V&A Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show, Dundee

Featured · until 17 January

V&A Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show

Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show is on display at V&A Dundee.

9am · GardensCharity Garden Opening - Abriachan Garden NurseryA four-acre garden above Loch Ness opens for charity, with winding paths through native woodland.Abriachan Garden Nursery, Abriachan10am · FamilyLinlithgow Family AdventureHands-on family sessions round Linlithgow Palace on its wildlife, history and landscape, for ages five and up.Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow10.15am · FamilyAdult & Child Crochet Workshop, Archerfield Walled GardenA beginners' crochet class in a walled garden, where a child and an adult make friendship bracelets together.Archerfield Walled Garden, Dirleton10.30am · FamilyFamily fun: Become the artwork - Aberdeen Art GalleryA playful family workshop with Gray's School of Art, dressing up in boiler suits to become the art.Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen11.30am · TheatreThe Utterly Revolting Science Show - The Tivoli TheatreA family science show of burps, farts and bodily noises, on a journey through the human body.The Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen12pm · HistoryLoose Goose in Castle DouglasThe Loose Goose workshop on the road from Caerlaverock, stopping at the Threave nature reserve.The Stove, Dumfries1pm · FamilyThe McDougalls: Halloween Party Show - Peterhead Community TheatreA Halloween party show from the children's theatre company The McDougalls, for all the family.Peterhead Community Theatre, Peterhead1pm · MusicLunchtime Concert: Fantastic FiddlersAn hour of music celebrating the travelling fiddlers and violinists of history and their virtuoso playing.Perth6pm · MusicSynthesisA one-night mix of visual art, live music, digital work, installation and performance.Glasgow6.15pm · FilmHer Private HellA surreal, pink-hazed film set in a futuristic city, following a rising film star.Eden Court, Inverness6.30pm · TheatreAlice Cooper: Devil on My Shoulder Book TourThe shock-rock pioneer on his life, on tour with his autobiography Devil on My Shoulder.Glasgow7pm · MusicThe Mountain GoatsThe American indie band of the songwriter John Darnielle, loved for his wordy, vivid songs.Glasgow7pm · MusicKatherine JenkinsThe Welsh mezzo-soprano, one of Britain's best-loved singers, in concert.Glasgow7pm · EventDanceLive Thrice - Al Seed Productions - The Anatomy RoomsA dance-theatre piece asking who heals the land once Macbeth is dead.The Anatomy Rooms, Aberdeen7pm · EventChristopher Hall: PizazzThe self-styled showman, jester and attention chaser, with an hour of stand-up.Glasgow7pm · MusicStephen Wilson Jr.Country singer-songwriter from rural southern Indiana, raised boxing by his father.Glasgow7pm · EventK-TrapThe London rapper who made his name in drill, known for an unorthodox flow and a mysterious air.Glasgow7pm · MusicKavus TorabiThe British-Iranian composer and guitarist, known from Gong and Knifeworld, playing his own music.Glasgow7pm · EventThe Seven Witches of TorryburnA stark, lyrical drama about seven Fife women accused of witchcraft at the height of the Scottish witch trials.Cottiers, Glasgow7.30pm · MusicBehind Enemy Lines - New Deer Public HallSongs and stories from Louise Jordan about women whose courage helped defeat the Nazis.New Deer Public Hall, New Deer7.30pm · Traditional musicWill Pound and Jenn ButterworthThe harmonica player and the folk guitarist, a duo since meeting at a session in 2018.Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh7.30pm · EventStarjunk 95Music project built round an anime-style crew of misfits who run an intergalactic radio station.Glasgow7.30pm · EventThe Sewing ClubFour-piece rock band built round three guitars and shared vocals.Glasgow8.30pm · FamilyPractical Magic 2The sequel to Practical Magic, as the Owens sisters face a curse on their family of witches.Eden Court, InvernessOn now · HistoryUntil 1 NovemberWhispers of the past: Dark history of the castleA guided tour of Edinburgh Castle's grounds, on the darker side of its past and the stories in its shadows.Edinburgh Castle, EdinburghOn now · EventUntil 21 OctoberAsn - Relaxed Cosmic Bowling at Codonas With We Too! - Codona's Amusement ParkSensory-adapted glow bowling with a quiet break-out area, for young people with additional support needs.Codona's Amusement Park, AberdeenOn now · WalksUntil 25 OctoberHalloween Trail of Treats at The Gonks of Gardenshillock - The Gonks of GardenshillockA Halloween trail of treats based on a children's storybook about a witch and the Gonks.The Gonks of Gardenshillock, AberdeenOn now · ArtUntil 1 NovemberGlasGLOWA Halloween light trail through the city's botanic gardens, themed this time as a Zombie Zoo.GlasgowOn now · WalksUntil 30 OctoberPumpkin & Play at Monty's Farm ParkPumpkin picking in the woods, carving, games, alpacas and pygmy goats on a family farm park.Ardardan Estate, HelensburghOn now · BooksUntil 22 OctoberPublic SessionA hands-on science workshop for children at a discovery centre in Elgin, with plenty of messy play.Elgin Library, ElginOn now · ArtUntil 21 OctoberIntroduction to EtchingTwo evenings learning the basics of etching, leaving with a small edition of prints.Dundee Contemporary Arts, DundeeOn now · FamilyUntil 19 OctoberCharleton Farm Owls and Forest SchoolOutdoor mornings for children, with owl masks, den building and a nature scavenger hunt.MontroseOn now · FamilyUntil 20 OctoberCharleton Farm Animal VisitsChildren feed hens, ducks, piglets and goats and meet the Highland cows on a farm near Montrose.MontroseOn now · SeasonalUntil 20 OctoberCharleton Farm Potion Lab for Little Witches & WizardsA Halloween potion lab for young witches and wizards on a farm near Montrose.MontroseOn now · FamilyUntil 21 OctoberCharleton Farm Hedgehog and Woodland FriendsChildren make a clay hedgehog and nature pictures and learn how woodland animals get ready for the cold.MontroseOn now · SeasonalUntil 31 OctoberPathhead Pumpkin PatchPumpkins, ponies and Halloween fun on a farm near Kirriemuir.KirriemuirOn now · FamilyUntil 24 OctoberChildren’s Highlight Tours: Stories from the CollectionsA museum tour for children and families in Perth, with stories from the collection and a capercaillie that cannot dance.Perth Museum, PerthOn now · FamilyUntil 21 OctoberChildren’s Highlight Tours: Fun Facts from the CollectionA museum tour for children and families in Perth, full of fun facts about the city's history.Perth Museum, PerthOn now · TheatreUntil 25 OctoberShaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy BottomAardman's Halloween adventure on Mossy Bottom Farm, where Shaun and the Flock face a mysterious beast.Eden Court, InvernessOn now · TheatreUntil 22 OctoberDiggerA film about the most powerful man in the world, trying to save humanity from a disaster he caused.Eden Court, InvernessOn now · WalksUntil 24 OctoberSpookfest at Landmark Forest Adventure ParkA Halloween fortnight at the forest adventure park in Carrbridge, with ghoulish fun for families.CairngormsOn now · FamilyUntil 25 OctoberBlock by BlockA drop-in family design challenge in the October holidays, building surreal streetscapes and windows.V&A Dundee, DundeeOn now · FamilyUntil 25 OctoberPeople Make Places!A family design jam in the October holidays, dreaming up future streets with playful design tools.V&A Dundee, DundeeOn now · GardensUntil 20 OctoberApple pressing sessionsApples brought from home are pressed into juice in the city's botanic gardens, up to 20kg a group.Inverness Botanic Gardens, InvernessOn now · HistoryUntil 23 OctoberDunfermline Abbey pilgrimage walksFree guided walks for Dunfermline Abbey's Pilgrimage Month, through Pittencrieff Park, Cairneyhill and Limekilns, booked ahead.Dunfermline Abbey, DunfermlineOn now · ArtUntil 19 OctoberBreath: paintings by Claire BurtonAn exhibition of paintings by Claire Burton at the Northlight Gallery in Stromness.Northlight Gallery, StromnessOn now · FamilyUntil 25 OctoberSuper-natural Halloween Trail at MerseheadA Halloween trail at Mersehead with a discovery rucksack, built round the reserve's wintering Barnacle Geese.RSPB Scotland Mersehead, SouthwickOn now · WildlifeUntil 19 OctoberIlluminate: Biofluorescence & BatsA sunset bat walk round Loch Garten, then UV torches after dark and hot chocolate at the end.RSPB Scotland Loch Garten Nature Centre, Nethy BridgeOn now · EventUntil 25 OctoberPumpkin AdventuresHalloween fun for families in Callendar Park, Falkirk, over the October holidays.Callendar Park, FalkirkOn now · ArtUntil 25 OctoberParallels 4Four artists, Anna Gormezano Marks, Fiona Luing, Jenni Colquhoun and Solii Brodie, show art, illustration and jewellery at Coburg House.Coburg House, Leith, EdinburghOn now · ArtUntil 22 OctoberAfroCaledoniaEse Johnson, Philip Morrell and Carla Angus show ceramics, prints and stitched work on Black Scottish connection, at The Alchemy Experiment.The Alchemy Experiment, GlasgowOn now · WorkshopsUntil 23 OctoberCharleton Farm Pumpkin Cakepop WorkshopChildren make and decorate six pumpkin cake pops to take home.Montrose

Tuesday

20 October
France-Lise McGurn: The Charm Offensive

Featured · until 15 November

France-Lise McGurn: The Charm Offensive

France-Lise McGurn studied at Duncan of Jordanstone in Dundee, and this is the show she has come back with: her largest in a UK institution, taking both galleries at Dundee Contemporary Arts.

Dundee
7am · EventDawn Goose WatchA dawn watch at Loch Leven as thousands of pink-footed geese lift off the loch.RSPB Scotland Loch Leven, Kinross10am · WalksCycle & Sip: Social Café RideA relaxed group bike ride along Stirling's paths to a cafe for a coffee.Address is Unit 2, 1 Cunningham Road, Springkerse, FK7 7SW, Stirling10am · BooksBugs! Bugs! And more Bugs!A look at the fascinating world of insects, at a library by Loch Leven.Loch Leven Community Library, Leven12.30pm · WorkshopsRevel: Meanwhile....Backstage Workshop - The BarnA gentle movement session for ages eight to eighty, led by the choreographer Kally Lloyd-Jones.The Barn, Aberdeen1pm · FamilyThe McDougalls: Halloween Party Show - Stewart's HallA Halloween party show from the children's theatre company The McDougalls, for all the family.Stewart's Hall, Aberdeen2.30pm · ArtSpecialist Tour: Black History Month - Aubrey Williams Centenary & collectingA Black History Month tour of two paintings by the Guyanese artist Aubrey Williams, in his centenary year.Aubrey Williams Centenary & collecting, Glasgow5pm · ArtHalloween Student Tuesdays: Pottery Ghosts (adults, BYOB)A student evening hand-building clay ghosts, decorated and fired by the studio; adults bring their own drinks.The Craft Pottery Studio, Glasgow6pm · HistoryTales from the Shadows of Gladstones LandAn evening of eerie stories and ghostly legends of Edinburgh in a 17th-century Royal Mile house.Gladstone's Land (National Trust for Scotland), Edinburgh6.30pm · MusicThe Hyde Quartet - the Road HomeA quartet's journey in music through the cities and cultures of the world, including work by MacMillan.the Road Home, Glasgow7pm · FestivalsInverness Film Festival - PreviewThe programmer of the Inverness Film Festival introduces what is showing this year.Eden Court, Inverness7pm · TheatreJohn Cooper ClarkeThe Salford punk poet, the original people's poet, with his fast, funny verse.Glasgow7pm · MusicThe ChameleonsThe Manchester post-punk band of the 80s, with moody, swirling guitar pop.Glasgow7pm · EventAntony SzmierekManchester spoken-word artist setting his lyrics over dance beats.Glasgow7pm · MusicHannah WicklundAmerican singer and guitarist taking her rock into psychedelic territory.Glasgow7pm · MusicBenjamin SteerBritish-American songwriter in his early twenties, writing catchy, introspective songs about modern life.Òran Mór, Glasgow7pm · MusicWellySinger and writer with a wry, literary take on himself, his band and British life.Glasgow7.30pm · BooksSeed Talks - The Science of Magic Mushrooms - The Lemon TreeA talk on the science of psilocybin and its possible use against depression, with questions after.The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen7.30pm · EventSexyTadhgBilingual multi-instrumentalist from Carlow in Ireland, putting a maverick spin on Irish traditional music.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicTristan & YseultEmma Rice's much-loved staging of the Cornish legend of doomed lovers, told with music, movement and humour.Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh8pm · MusicDexysThe Birmingham band behind Come On Eileen, blending soul, folk and new wave energy.GlasgowAll day · TheatreTony Roper's The SteamieTony Roper's much-loved comedy of four women doing their washing in a Glasgow steamie on Hogmanay.Pitlochry Festival Theatre, PitlochryAll day · FamilyIntroduction to Samba drummingAn introduction to Brazilian samba drumming for children and teenagers.An Lanntair, StornowayAll day · BooksByre World: TiLT Travels in Literary TranslationA talk on travel in literary translation, and how it shifts a familiar picture.Byre Theatre, St AndrewsAll day · ComedyAlan Carr: Work in ProgressThe comedian tries out new material in a one-off warm-up show before his tour.Byre Theatre, St AndrewsAll day · MusicThe Robert Vincent Trio at Montrose PlayhouseThe Liverpool singer-songwriter Robert Vincent with his trio.MontroseAll day · FamilyToto the Ninja Cat and the Great Snake Escape • ANGUSaliveA family musical about a nearly blind cat with ninja skills, for ages five and up.Angus

Wednesday

21 October

Featured · until 26 November

Drawing Inspiration

The Burrell Collection sits in the woods of Pollok Country Park, and this autumn it has a quiet treat for anyone who loves drawing.

Glasgow
10.30am · HistoryBell, Book and Borealis: Crafting and Storytelling in the Footsteps of a Pictish Saint - The BarnCrafting and storytelling following a Pictish saint who grew up in the Aberdeenshire landscape.The Barn, Aberdeen11am · FamilyChildren’s Highlight Tours: Fun Facts from the CollectionA museum tour for children and families in Perth, full of fun facts about the past.Perth Museum, Perth11am · ArtMeet a Viking!A Viking visits the museum for two days, with replica objects for children to hold. Free to drop in.Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, Inverness11am · History'Back to the Bronze Age' drop-in session at the roundhouseA drop-in session in a replica Bronze Age roundhouse on Arran, on how people lived there.Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park (National Trust for Scotland), Isle of Arran12pm · WorkshopsLoose Goose in Gatehouse of FleetThe Loose Goose workshop on the road, stopping in Gatehouse of Fleet.The Stove, Dumfries12.30pm · HistoryLunchtime Talk: “Founder of Steam Trawling” – The Records of Richard Irvin and Sons Limited - Aberdeen Maritime MuseumAn archivist's lunchtime talk on the Aberdeen firm of trawler owners that pioneered steam trawling.Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Aberdeen12.30pm · SeasonalThe McDougalls: Halloween Party | THE ALBERT HALLS |A Halloween party show for young children with Max and Auntie Aggie from The McDougalls, costumes encouraged.Stirling2pm · MusicDementia Friendly Concert: Jon Ritchie and That Swing Sensation – Big Band ClassicsA relaxed concert of big band classics, made for people living with dementia and those who care for them.Big Band Classics, Glasgow2pm · WildlifeIdentifying Coastal Birds in the Colder MonthsAn indoor session with conservation officers on identifying the coastal birds most often seen around North Berwick.Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick2pm · HistoryWeather spirits and rain loreThree storytellers, among them Donald Smith, share traditional tales of weather spirits and rain lore.National Library of Scotland, Edinburgh6pm · BooksScience LatesFree evening science talks at the Tolbooth, from Formula 1 onwards, for the Stirling Science Festival.Tolbooth, Stirling6pm · ArtTaster Workshops - Explore Printmaking!Try a printmaking technique and take home fresh prints in an evening taster with printmaker Fiona Maher.Edinburgh Printmakers, Edinburgh6.30pm · EventFimiguerreroUnderground London rapper, fresh from his EP The Statue of a Fool.Glasgow6.30pm · Family(Slightly later) Badger Banquet at MerseheadBadgers come to feed in the garden after dark, watched from inside the Sulwath Centre at Mersehead.RSPB Scotland Mersehead, Southwick7pm · HistoryThe Wanted 2.0The next chapter of the pop band The Wanted, playing the chart hits live.Glasgow7pm · ArtHannah Peel and Will BurnsThe Northern Irish composer and the poet Will Burns, music and words together.Glasgow7pm · MusicJames BlakeThe London producer and singer who wraps soft, aching vocals in deep bass and sparse beats.Glasgow7pm · MusicBog Boy Ep LaunchLaunch night for a new EP from the project of the Glasgow guitarist and songwriter Ali Carson.Glasgow7.15pm · ComedyLi Jin Hao: Falling from a MoonThe Edinburgh Comedy Award best newcomer, on his first UK tour.Glasgow7.30pm · TheatreBruce Molsky & Darol AngerTwo American fiddlers, one old-time and one new acoustic, who have explored music together for years.Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh7.30pm · FamilyThe Prime of Miss Jean BrodieMuriel Spark's story of a magnetic Edinburgh teacher and her chosen girls, on stage.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicAttention Seekers: Adhd Tangents With Alex Partridge - The Lemon TreeThe ADHD Chatter podcaster Alex Partridge, in an evening on living with ADHD.The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen7.30pm · MusicThe DriftersThe soul vocal group's current line-up sing classics such as Under the Boardwalk.Glasgow7.30pm · EventSkating PollyOklahoma band of step-sisters playing raw, catchy punk-pop.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicSchurRising indie-rock artist mixing atmospheric sound with emotional lyrics.Glasgow7.30pm · TheatreHen Night Horror - The Tivoli TheatreA musical comedy-horror about a hen night that goes badly wrong days before the wedding.The Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen7.30pm · FamilyAlan Davies - Music HallStand-up from the comic and QI regular on getting older and being a dad.Music Hall, Aberdeen7.30pm · EventThroes X Armed for Apocalypse Live in GlasgowA double bill of heavy sludge metal from two touring bands.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicThe Brandon McPhee Band: The Music of Sir Jimmy ShandBrandon McPhee's band plays the dance music of Sir Jimmy Shand, the great Scottish accordionist.Ross Institute, Halkirk7.30pm · MusicCarrie Hope FletcherThe musical theatre star of Heathers and Cinderella in a concert of songs.Cottiers, Glasgow7.30pm · Traditional musicDeiseil: Dancing in Time, An Tobar and Mull TheatreStepdance, Scotland's percussive dance, explored through fiddle, feet, Gaelic song and story, in Tobermory.An Tobar, Tobermory11.59pm · DanceThese Violent DelightsScotland's national ballet company turns Romeo and Juliet into a feature film, told in dance.Scottish Ballet, GlasgowAll day · MusicSomething Different SharingShort informal performances from a three-day dance and music workshop, a curtain-raiser for the sound festival.AberdeenAll day · MusicScottish International Storytelling FestivalThe long-running festival of tales, music and characters from Scotland's traditional and modern culture.EdinburghAll day · Traditional musicStirling Science FestivalFour days of science for all ages across Stirling, with aerial workshops, sport games and a science ceilidh.The Albert Halls, StirlingAll day · EventThe ShamrocksA night of Irish songs and good cheer from the Northern Irish band.EdinburghAll day · TheatreAlyson Orr Ltd Presents Witch HuntA new musical inspired by the Scottish witch trials, following three women on the run.Byre Theatre, St AndrewsAll day · ArtCurator Tour: Tartan & TurmoilA curator's tour of the exhibition on the Angus Jacobites.MontroseAll day · GardensLichen Tour - OctoberA walk round the Borders arboretum at Dawyck with a local lichen expert, looking at its lichens.Edinburgh

Thursday

22 October

Featured · until 30 November

John Bellany: Anchored

John Bellany came back to the fishing communities of the east of Scotland again and again in his paintings, and they show just how hard life at sea could be.

Anstruther
8am · FamilyCrestie WalksAn early walk through Abernethy Forest looking for crested tits, then the Loch Garten centre before it opens.RSPB Scotland Loch Garten Nature Centre, Nethy Bridge10am · FamilyWoodland Explorers in the October HolidaysA family morning in the trees at Voxter near Brae, with a creepy-crawly hunt.Voxter House, Brae10.30am · FamilyHalloween Family Trail at Drum Castle - Drum Castle, Garden & EstateA spooky Halloween trail round the pond and grounds, for families.Drum Castle, Garden & Estate, Aberdeen10.30am · FamilyGoose Walk to the Wetlands at MerseheadA walk at Mersehead to a hide to watch the Barnacle Geese back for the winter, with a hunt for children.RSPB Scotland Mersehead, Southwick10.30am · HistoryMacmillan Coffee MorningA charity coffee morning for Macmillan Cancer Support, with the castle gardens open for donations.Dunvegan Castle, Dunvegan11am · HistoryPuzzle Zone: Sensory Overload - Banff CastleA detective puzzle trail about a conservationist on the run from her kidnappers.Banff Castle, Banff11am · FamilyStorytime With Sabine Muir - Braemar CastleInteractive stories for primary-age children with a local author, with a drink and a snack.Braemar Castle, Braemar11am · ArtTaster Workshops - Explore Printmaking!Try a printmaking technique and take home fresh prints in a morning taster with printmaker Fiona Maher.Edinburgh Printmakers, Edinburgh12.45pm · MusicLunchbreak Concert: Ensemble Haar - Aberdeen Art GalleryA lunchtime set from Aberdeen's new contemporary music quartet, part of the sound festival.Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen5.30pm · HistoryMeet the Gods, Creatures, and Heroes of Celtic legendThe Gaelic writer Martin MacIntyre tells stories of the gods, creatures and heroes of Celtic legend.National Library of Scotland, Edinburgh5.45pm · FestivalsGaloshans Festival: Now She is Witch with Kirsty LoganThe Scottish novelist Kirsty Logan on her work, for Greenock's Halloween festival of the Galoshans.Greenock Central Library, Greenock6pm · MusicSound Festival: Neil Tomas Smith - The Lemon TreeA percussion theatre piece in which three players are pushed to their limits by the tasks set for them.The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen6pm · ArtElectro-Etching Taster WorkshopLearn copper electro-etching and printing, a low-toxicity alternative to acid etching, in an evening taster. Sold out.Edinburgh Printmakers, Edinburgh6.30pm · EventFashion Show and Pop-up Shop in aid of Gareloch RDAA fashion show and pop-up shop raising money for Riding for the Disabled on the Gareloch.Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre, Helensburgh6.30pm · ArtSolar Inks WorkshopMaking ink from garden plants for drawing and painting, with the Crathie artist Naomi Mcintosh.Crathie7pm · EventKytesMunich indie-pop band of three friends who grew up together.Glasgow7pm · EventThe Wedding PresentThe Leeds indie band of David Gedge, jangling and heartfelt since the mid 80s.Glasgow7pm · Music10cc's Graham Gouldman & Heart Full of SongsThe 10cc co-founder and his band play the hits, from I'm Not in Love to Dreadlock Holiday.Glasgow7pm · EventSoul II SoulThe London sound system behind Back to Life and Keep On Movin', live.Glasgow7pm · MusicPet NeedsColchester band of two brothers, playing punchy indie punk.Glasgow7pm · MusicDamian LewisThe actor from Homeland and Band of Brothers, on tour as a singer and guitarist.Òran Mór, Glasgow7pm · FamilyChristine BovillGlasgow singer-songwriter with a jazz chanteuse's style and a folk upbringing.Òran Mór, Glasgow7pm · MusicLady LeshurrThe Birmingham rapper known for her quick-witted Queen's Speech freestyles.Glasgow7pm · ArtThe Paint Club: Highland CowA painting workshop where everyone paints a Highland cow.The Babette, Inverness7.15pm · ComedyCarl HutchinsonComic who mixes storytelling and physical comedy with down-to-earth banter.Glasgow7.30pm · EventBrian Bilston & Henry NormalTwo poets, the social media favourite Brian Bilston and the writer Henry Normal, on stage together for the first time.Glasgow7.30pm · EventToploaderThe band behind the hit cover of Dancing in the Moonlight, formed in the late 90s.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicIguana Death CultRotterdam rock band mixing garage punk, psych-rock and post-punk.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicAlan Davies: Think AheadThe comedian and QI regular with a new stand-up show.Edinburgh7.30pm · MusicRsno - Brahm's Violin Concerto - Music HallThe Royal Scottish National Orchestra in Brahms's Violin Concerto and Sibelius's sixth symphony.Music Hall, Aberdeen7.30pm · ComedyAnia Magliano: Peach Fuzz - The Lemon TreeStand-up from the London comic, fresh from the latest series of Taskmaster.The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen7.30pm · Traditional musicNorrie Tago MacIver | TOLBOOTH | FolkThe Lewis Gaelic singer Norrie Tago MacIver, once the voice of Skipinnish, back after a sold-out show.Carloway7.30pm · FilmMareel Film QuizA film quiz with cunning quizmasters and prizes for the winners and the losers too.Shetland7.30pm · MusicMike Lindup TrioThe Level 42 singer and keyboard player, with a trio playing funk and jazz.Cottiers, Glasgow7.30pm · FilmCove & Kilcreggan Film SocietyA village film society's monthly screening on the Rosneath peninsula, open at the door.Cove Burgh Hall, Helensburgh7.30pm · Traditional musicDeiseil: Dancing in Time, An Tobar and Mull TheatreStepdance, Scotland's percussive dance, explored through fiddle, feet, Gaelic song and story, in Bunessan.Bunessan Hall, Bunessan7.45pm · TheatrePerth Film Society: TouchBaltasar Kormákur's romance about a man tracing the woman he lost in his youth, a lifetime later.Perth8pm · HistoryOorie Linlithgow: Buried, Beheaded & BewitchedA darkly entertaining walking tour of the old burgh of Linlithgow, full of ghost stories and grisly history.The Cross Well, Linlithgow8.15pm · ComedyFallen Angels by Noël CowardNoël Coward's champagne comedy of bad manners, which shocked audiences when it opened.Eden Court, Inverness8.30pm · MusicHue and CryThe Glasgow brothers Pat and Greg Kane, behind the 1980s hit Labour of Love.Eden Court, InvernessAll day · MusicSound Festival - Various venues: AberdeenshireThe North East's festival of new music, with concerts, installations and sound walks across the region.Various venues: Aberdeenshire, AberdeenAll day · FamilyLost IllusionsA French film adapted from Balzac's novel about a young poet chasing fame in Paris.HaddingtonAll day · MusicEnsemble HaarAberdeen's newest contemporary music ensemble playing a programme of new works, with a talk beforehand.AberdeenAll day · Musicsoundwalk: Cainnt nan Eun/The Language of the BirdsA GPS-guided walk of bird and place recordings, mapped to the Forvie nature reserve and Mill of Benholm.BenholmAll day · TheatreNeil Smith: Try Try TryA percussion theatre piece in which three players are pushed to their limits by the tasks set for them.AberdeenAll day · FamilyFamily Soundwalk: Explore Union Terrace GardensAn hour's listening walk for families through the city-centre gardens, turning everyday sounds into music.AberdeenAll day · ArtLeona Jones: apeironA piece of experimental radio art built from elemental sounds, part of the sound festival.StromnessAll day · ArtVictoria Crowe & Gemma McGregor: Orkney SequenceA film made from Victoria Crowe's Orkney paintings, with music by the Orkney composer Gemma McGregor.AberdeenAll day · ArtSarah Watts (clarinet) & Duncan MacLeod (electronics)Clarinet and electronics inside a hidden Cold War nuclear bunker, in music drawn from Gaelic landscape.HopeAll day · FamilyFamily Promenade ConcertA relaxed concert that moves from room to room around the maritime museum, for all ages.AberdeenAll day · ArtLeona Jones: BookInsA mass read-aloud, where readers bring a favourite and everyone reads from it at the same time.AberdeenAll day · MusicSpotlight gig: Any EnemyNorth East Scotland's new music ensemble playing fresh work by three emerging Scottish-based composers.AberdeenAll day · MusicJames Tenney: In a Large Open SpaceA rare performance of James Tenney's open-form piece by a Montreal string quartet and an Aberdeen ensemble.AberdeenAll day · MusicLate Night soundsession: Architectural ArpeggiosAn hour-long relaxed concert of six new pieces on the link between music and photography.AberdeenAll day · TheatreCommunity Day with Duncan MacLeodInstrumentalists of any age spend a day rehearsing and performing a musical collage by Duncan MacLeod.AberdeenAll day · ArtLydenskab: Aberdeen Unfolded SharingA Danish ensemble shares what came of a week of experimental workshops with communities in the North East.AberdeenAll day · MusicCommunity Day ConcertA short performance by local musicians of a new collage piece inspired by Aberdeen's landscape.AberdeenAll day · MusicThe Edinburgh QuartetScotland's long-running string quartet premieres Ben Lunn's second quartet, alongside a piece by Caroline Shaw.EdinburghAll day · MusicQuatuor Bozzini: Composers’ Lab SharingThe Montreal string quartet plays short new works written over three days by four emerging Scottish composers.AberdeenAll day · MusicRed Note EnsembleScotland's contemporary music ensemble in an evening of new pieces, one made with a French collective.TongueAll day · ArtJames Weeks: weatherworld quartetsSix short string quartets about being out in the weather, full of rain and wind, played by Quatuor Bozzini.AberdeenAll day · MusicSeasonal Quartet: Ali Smith (writer) & New European EnsembleThe Scottish novelist reads from her Seasonal Quartet, with live music from the New European Ensemble.AberdeenAll day · MusicRoundtable: ListeningA panel of composers talking about what it means to listen, chaired by Pete Stollery.AberdeenAll day · MusicSpotlight gig: Red Note EnsembleAlto flute and percussion in new works by six emerging Scottish-based composers.AberdeenAll day · TheatreAlistair MacDonald (electronics) & Darren Gallacher (percussion)Percussion and live electronics built from old Scots words and field recordings of accents.AberdeenAll day · ArtMimi Doulton (soprano): No Man is an IslandA soprano sings a set of Scottish premieres of new work, alongside a documentary film.AberdeenAll day · MusicLate Night soundsession: Tom MacfadyenFive young Scottish electroacoustic composers premiere pieces made from sounds recorded at home.AberdeenAll day · MusicSCO-27 Max Richter+The Scottish Chamber Orchestra plays music by Max Richter, the composer who has reshaped modern classical music.EdinburghAll day · TheatreThanks for Being HereA witty play of video and viewpoints from the Belgian company Ontroerend Goed, all about the audience.Tron Theatre, GlasgowAll day · FamilyHalloween at Dunvegan Castle GardensA Halloween trail for families through the woodland of the castle gardens at Dunvegan.Dunvegan Castle, DunveganAll day · EventNT Live: The MisanthropeA filmed London staging of Molière's comedy about the trouble with telling the truth, with Sandra Oh.An Lanntair, StornowayAll day · TheatreThe Tailor of InvernessMatthew Zajac's acclaimed one-man show about his Polish-Ukrainian father's life.Byre Theatre, St AndrewsAll day · MusicQuartet MalamatinaA new Scottish guitar quartet reimagining classical music for today.ForfarAll day · HistorySpirit Tasting with Guests Tomatin DistilleryA tasting of Tomatin whiskies in a castle tower, with the story of the Highland distillery.Inverness Castle, InvernessAll day · HistoryLiving History with the Crafty Guidwives of SpeysideTraditional crafts shown round the castle at Braemar, from spinning and weaving to other wool work.Braemar Castle, BraemarAll day · ArtWhere Listening BeginsAn interactive exhibition on the science of the ear and how people listen.AberdeenAll day · ArtLeona Jones: babblesnatchAn eight-speaker sound installation where voices dart about and words burst out of the noise.AberdeenAll day · ArtRaydale Dower: Single DropA three-day sound installation in the old Bon Accord Baths, by the Aberdeen-born artist Raydale Dower.AberdeenAll day · ArtClaudia Molitor: Silent SeasA sound piece on noise pollution in the oceans, with scientists and sea workers describing its effects.AberdeenAll day · ArtLes Harmoniques du Néon: VITRINEA live audiovisual piece watched from inside a shop window, turning passing street life into music.AberdeenAll day · TheatrePORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE (2019)Céline Sciamma's love story of a painter and her subject on a remote island off Brittany.LochgellyAll day · MusicA NIGHT TO REMEMBER MOTOWN SHOWA night of 1960s Motown hits, sung by a cast that includes singers from The Voice.DunfermlineAll day · WalksGuided Biofluorescence Walk - Benmore Botanic GardenA guided walk after dark with UV lights, showing the glow of plants, fungi and insects in the botanic garden.Benmore Botanic Garden, Dunoon

Friday

23 October

Featured · until 21 November

Clann-Nighean an Sgadain / Following the Fish

Between 1850 and 1950, thousands of young women followed the herring fleets around the coast, gutting and packing millions of fish a week.

Stornoway
10am · GardensPick your own PumpkinA pumpkin patch on a farm near Dornoch, the first in Sutherland, with pumpkins to pick in the field.Davochfin Farm, Dornoch10am · FamilyHalloween Kids Trail at Kellie Castle & GardenA Halloween trail for children through the walled garden and grounds of Kellie Castle in Fife, in costume.Kellie Castle & Garden (National Trust for Scotland), Pittenweem10.30am · FamilyCastle Fraser's Family Friendly Halloween TrailA family Halloween trail through the gardens and grounds of Castle Fraser, with a fairytale theme.Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate (National Trust for Scotland), Sauchen11am · HistoryTarvit's Ghostly Ghouls TrailA ghostly trail for brave families round the grounds of Hill of Tarvit near Cupar.Hill of Tarvit Mansion & Garden (National Trust for Scotland), Cupar11am · HistoryFinger Loop Weaving Workshop - Braemar CastleFinger-loop weaving and lucet cord-making for a bracelet, taught by a group of local craftswomen.Braemar Castle, Braemar11am · FamilyStorytime with Sabine MuirInteractive stories for primary-age children with the local author Sabine Muir, with a drink and a snack.Braemar12pm · WildlifeLoose Goose in WigtownThe Loose Goose workshop on the road, stopping by the saltmarsh at Wigtown where the geese gather.The Stove, Dumfries1pm · ArtIntroduction to Spinning and Woolwork - Braemar CastleAn introduction to spinning wool into yarn on a drop spindle and a spinning wheel.Braemar Castle, Braemar2pm · ArtA Van, a Festival and a Story of Cultural ExchangeThe story of the Salaam Festival's truck-art van, made by the artist Afshan Abid with students.Glasgow5pm · FamilyNEW: Spooky Family Halloween TrailA spooky family Halloween trail through the grounds of Castle Fraser, walked in the dark.Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate (National Trust for Scotland), Inverurie5.30pm · MusicPalm Houses Sessions: clàrsach (1)An hour of calm live music on the clàrsach, the Scottish harp, played by Siannie Moodie among the palms.Edinburgh5.30pm · TheatreThe Social ReckoningAaron Sorkin's film about the whistleblower who started the reckoning with social media.Eden Court, Inverness6pm · MusicJames BlakeThe Grammy-winning English producer and singer, whose mix of soul and electronica shaped modern pop.The Queen's Hall, Edinburgh6pm · HistoryHaunted House of the Binns ToursAn evening of ghost stories inside the House of the Binns, said to be one of West Lothian's most haunted houses.House Of The Binns, Linlithgow6pm · ArtFriday Nights: Throw a BowlThrow a bowl on the pottery wheel in a two-hour Friday evening session.Clay Works Studios, Dumfries6.30pm · HistoryFestival WelcomeThe opening toast of the Birnam book festival, with the writer Jamie Jauncey on his memoir of Cunninghame Graham.Birnam Arts, Birnam Dunkeld6.30pm · ComedyMark CoxThe actor who played Tam Mullen in Still Game, in his first solo stand-up show.British Legion, Inverness7pm · MusicOliver Richard Live @ the Cellar Aberdeen - The CellarA night of live music headlined by Oliver Richard, with the Scottish singer-songwriter Craig John Davidson.The Cellar, Aberdeen7pm · MusicLucia and the Best BoysGlasgow alternative pop-rock four-piece fronted by Lucia Fairfull.Glasgow7pm · WhiskyThe Malt Library Whisky Tasting - Aberdeen Whisky ShopA hosted tasting of rare and unusual whiskies in a whisky shop's own tasting room.Aberdeen Whisky Shop, Aberdeen7pm · MusicTwin AtlanticThe Glasgow alternative rock band, touring songs of marriage, friendship and modern life.Glasgow7pm · EventBrandon FlowersThe Killers frontman out on his own, playing songs from his solo records.Glasgow7pm · BooksBrian Bilston - How To Lay An Egg With A Horse Inside - The Lemon TreeThe poet known for his funny verse on social media, with a new show.The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen7pm · MusicBrian Bilston & Henry Normal - The Lemon TreeThe poets Brian Bilston and Henry Normal share a stage for the first time.The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen7pm · MusicHue & Cry - Music HallThe brothers Pat and Greg Kane, the Scottish pop duo who broke through in the 1980s with Labour of Love.Music Hall, Aberdeen7pm · EventA Night to Remember Motown Show | THE ALBERT HALLS |A high-energy show of Motown hits, back to the Detroit sound of the 1960s.Stirling7pm · EventLa Sierra Cassa Presents: Kyle Falconer (The View) | TOLBOOTH |The frontman of the Dundee indie band The View.Kyle7pm · TheatreResident EvilThe new Resident Evil film, following a medical courier caught in one night's race for survival.Eden Court, Inverness7.30pm · FestivalsAn Evening with Doug JohnstoneThe Scottish crime writer Doug Johnstone, on the opening night of the Birnam book festival.Birnam Library, Edinburgh7.30pm · MusicLuther: UK Celebrating the Music of Luther Vandross - The Tivoli TheatreA tribute to Luther Vandross, with Harry Cambridge singing the soul star's hits.The Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen7.30pm · MusicMama Terra - St Margaret'sA Scottish spiritual jazz and soul group led by the Glaswegian pianist Marco Cafolla.St Margaret's Braemar, Braemar7.30pm · EventAdult DVDIndie band backed by BBC Introducing and Radio X, with a following on both sides of the Atlantic.Glasgow7.30pm · ComedyWendy Wason - Breakneck Comedy ClubStand-up from the Scottish actress and comedian.Breakneck Comedy Club, Aberdeen7.30pm · TheatreHen Night HorrorA musical comedy-horror about a hen night gone wrong, with Dani Heron.Dundee Rep Theatre, Dundee7.30pm · MusicCalum MacPhail Live In ConcertThe Scottish singer, songwriter and accordion player Calum MacPhail, mixing Scottish and Irish folk.Perth7.30pm · BooksCurious Minds: James Hutton & the Scottish EnlightenmentA talk on James Hutton, the Edinburgh man who founded modern geology, and the Scottish Enlightenment.AK Bell Library, Perth7.30pm · TheatreThe Tailor of InvernessMatthew Zajac's one-man play about his father's journey from Galicia to a new life in Scotland, at the Theatre Royal.Theatre Royal, Dumfries7.30pm · SportheART Nights @ Heart of Hawick - Creative workshop - EventsA relaxed creative workshop for an evening in Hawick.Hawick7.45pm · TheatreRevelTwo performers in a dressing room that holds every show they have ever been in, past, present and future.Glasgow8pm · MusicDornoch Gatherings: Liam Ross & BandThe Invergordon guitarist, singer and songwriter Liam Ross, one of the best guitarists in the Highlands, with his band.Carnegie Courthouse, Dornoch8pm · TheatreAlan Carr: Work In ProgressThe comic and chat-show host Alan Carr, warming up new material ahead of his next tour.Perth8.30pm · TheatreDavid Byrne's American UtopiaSpike Lee's film of David Byrne's Broadway show American Utopia, the former Talking Heads singer at his best.Eden Court, Inverness9.30pm · ComedyMark CoxThe actor who played Tam in Still Game, in his first ever solo stand-up show.Boat of Garten New Community Hall, Boat of GartenAll day · WhiskyDornoch Whisky FestivalA weekend of tastings, talks and whisky dinners in the Sutherland cathedral town.DornochAll day · MusicAutumn Highland FestivalA fortnight of events in Dornoch showing off local food, whisky, music, golf and history.DornochAll day · MusicDornoch Autumn Highland FestivalA run of events in Dornoch showing off local food, whisky, music, golf and history.DornochAll day · MusicBlazin' in BeaulyThe fiddle band's own festival of Highland music, with concerts, sessions, talks and workshops.BeaulyAll day · Food and drinkArran's Food Journey festival passportHop on the bus round Arran with a festival passport and collect four stamps from the island's food and drink makers for a chance at a prize.Isle of Arran, BrodickAll day · EventRSNO Season 26-27: Brahms' Violin ConcertoThe Royal Scottish National Orchestra, with Brahms' Violin Concerto at the heart of the programme.EdinburghAll day · TheatreThriceA new play that picks up after Macbeth's death, asking who will now heal the land.Traverse Theatre, EdinburghAll day · FamilyThe Americana RevueA tribute night to American roots rock, with songs by the Eagles, Creedence Clearwater Revival and the Wilburys.HaddingtonAll day · HistoryLadies and Gents Charity Golf EventA charity golf competition for men and women over the Royal Dornoch championship course.Dornoch Cathedral, DornochAll day · EventSCO 26/27: Max Richter+The Scottish Chamber Orchestra plays the music of the composer Max Richter, with other modern works.GlasgowAll day · TheatreWhen Prophecy Fails | Studio | TheatrePhysical theatre about the first UFO doomsday cult, and the study that gave the world cognitive dissonance.Beacon Arts Centre, GreenockAll day · MusicAn Evening of Music from the West EndAn evening of songs from West End musicals, in the Georgian house near Cumnock.Dumfries House, CumnockAll day · EventSense and SensibilityA new film of Jane Austen's story of the Dashwood sisters, with Daisy Edgar-Jones.An Lanntair, StornowayAll day · MusicOff the Kerb presents Rich Hall: Chin MusicThe deadpan American comic, sharp, quick and improvised.Byre Theatre, St AndrewsAll day · MusicSilent Movie Night: Phantom of the Opera (1925)Lon Chaney's 1925 Phantom of the Opera with a live improvised organ score by Donald MacKenzie.DundeeAll day · EventThe DriftersThe soul vocal group behind Under the Boardwalk and Come On Over to My Place.ArbroathAll day · MusicBrandon McPhee presents the music of Sir Jimmy ShandBrandon McPhee plays the music of Sir Jimmy Shand, Scotland's most celebrated accordionist.BrechinAll day · HistoryGhouls and Gore at Glamis CastleHalloween tales of ghosts and gory history, told inside Glamis Castle.GlamisAll day · MarketsMartin Kemp’s Back to the 80sThe Spandau Ballet bassist and actor Martin Kemp hosts a night of 80s hits.EdinburghAll day · ArtGreyfriars Edinburgh Art FairA free art fair of painting, sculpture, photography and illustration from established and new artists.EdinburghAll day · MusicTHE SCOTTISH PINK FLOYD: THE THIN ICE TOURA Pink Floyd tribute band, eleven players strong, with a two-and-a-half-hour show.LochgellyAll day · ArtOctober Art WalkA walk round the Botanics' outdoor art, from Andy Goldsworthy to Barbara Hepworth.HopeAll day · FilmThe Big Halloween ScreenHalloween films shown after dark in a country park near Edinburgh, across five evenings.Dalkeith Country Park, DalkeithAll day · ArtSolar Inks WorkshopMaking drawing inks from Scottish garden plants with the artist Naomi McIntosh.Edzell

Saturday

24 October

Featured · until 24 October

Health of the Sublime, The Barn

The Barn in Banchory shows Health of the Sublime, Carrie Fertig's exhibition on wellbeing in nature, from 26 September.

Banchory
7am · EventDawn Goose WatchA dawn watch at Loch Leven as thousands of pink-footed geese lift off the loch.RSPB Scotland Loch Leven, Kinross7.15am · FamilyGeese at Dawn at MerseheadFirst light in the Mersehead dunes as the Barnacle Geese lift off the sandflats, then a hot drink.RSPB Scotland Mersehead, Southwick8.30am · EventTEDxAberdeen - Minds Wide OpenA day of short talks in the TED style, organised locally in Aberdeen.Aberdeen Arts Centre, Aberdeen9am · Food and drinkEllon Farmers MarketLocal producers in Neil Ross Square, Ellon, 9am to 1pm.Neil Ross Square, Ellon10am · EventGladiatorsThe TV show's Gladiators take on challengers in a live arena version of the games.Glasgow10am · WalksBairn's Halloween Trail @ The John O'Groats MillA Halloween trail and crafts for children at the old mill in John O'Groats, hunting for Frankenstein's lost pet.John o’ Groats Mill, Wick10am · Food and drinkBallater Farmers MarketProducers on the Church Green in Ballater, 10am to 2pm.Church Green, Ballater10am · FamilyHalloween Pumpkin HuntA Halloween pumpkin-counting trail round the Lochwinnoch reserve for families.RSPB Scotland Lochwinnoch, Lochwinnoch10am · ArtMokulito Weekend CourseDraw on plywood and print it as a lithograph using the Japanese mokulito technique over a weekend. Sold out.Edinburgh Printmakers, Edinburgh10am · ArtScreenprinting Weekend CoursePrint a layered, multi-colour image onto paper using screenprinting stencils and a press over a weekend.Edinburgh Printmakers, Edinburgh10am · SeasonalScrappy Halloween: Make, Mend & TransformMend or transform an old costume or fabric scraps into something Halloween in a relaxed drop-in session. Sold out.Edinburgh Open Workshop, Edinburgh10am · HistoryTablet Weaving Workshop with Sarah MawsonA Viking-inspired workshop in tablet weaving, an ancient way of making patterned bands, with Sarah Mawson.Historylinks Museum, Dornoch10am · WalksWoodcut Weekend Workshop at Farlary CroftA weekend woodcut printing workshop at an off-grid cabin overlooking woodland near Rogart.The Old Byre, Rogart10am · ArtPowerful Portraits: A Photography WorkshopA practical portrait photography workshop, inspired by Frederick Douglass, the most photographed man of his day.Perth Creative Exchange – Wasps, Perth10am · ArtSolar Inks WorkshopMaking ink from garden plants for drawing and painting, with the Crathie artist Naomi Mcintosh.Crathie10.30am · ArtPalm Houses Printmaking (1)A day of sketching, design and printmaking inspired by the Botanics' Victorian Palm Houses.Hope10.30am · FamilyFamily Promenade Concert - Aberdeen Maritime MuseumA relaxed concert that moves from room to room around the maritime museum, for all ages.Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Aberdeen10.30am · FamilyGlenmore Little Makers - Pumpkin Firefly JarsA children's workshop making pumpkin firefly jars, with an adult alongside.Glenmore, Isle of Bute10.30am · WorkshopsNeedle Felting Workshop: Seasonal ToadstoolsNeedle-felt seasonal toadstools in a beginners' session led by Léla of The Green Boat.H1 Building, Hill of Rubislaw, Aberdeen11am · HistoryTreasure Hub Open Day - Aberdeen Treasure HubA rare look inside the store where the city keeps the artworks and objects not on display.Aberdeen Treasure Hub Museum Centre, Aberdeen11am · Food and drinkHill to GrillA free outdoor festival celebrating the local forests and local food of the Cairngorms.Cairngorms11am · WhiskyGrand Tasting: Morning Session @ Royal Dornoch Golf ClubA tasting of 25 of Scotland's best-known whiskies at Royal Dornoch golf club, part of the Dornoch Whisky Festival.Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Dornoch11am · FamilyChildren’s Highlight Tours: Stories from the CollectionsA children's tour of the museum in Perth, with stories from the collection and a capercaillie that cannot dance.Perth Museum, Perth11am · ArtMarbling on Paper and FabricA day of traditional marbling with Shona, making marbled papers and fabrics for bookbinding and sewing. Sold out.Scottish Craft School, Craft Central, Dunblane11am · WorkshopsFinger Loop Weaving WorkshopChildren learn finger loop weaving and lucet to make a bracelet or a wee snail, with the Crafty Guidwives.Cairngorms11am · WorkshopsDIY Basics Workshop: Household FixesFix common household snags such as loose handles and dated light fittings in a hands-on Saturday workshop.Edinburgh Open Workshop, Edinburgh12pm · FamilyStirling Science Festival Family DayFree hands-on science for families at the Albert Halls, on the science of sport and wellbeing.The Albert Halls, Stirling12pm · WorkshopsLoose Goose in StranraerThe Loose Goose workshop on the road, ending its journey in Stranraer.The Stove, Dumfries1pm · MusicSKA & Reggae AfternoonA ska and reggae afternoon with a DJ spinning Madness, The Selecter and Bad Manners.The Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre, Helensburgh1pm · EventIntroduction to Spinning and WoolworkLearning to spin wool with a drop spindle and a spinning wheel, with the Crafty Guidwives of Speyside.Cairngorms1.30pm · MusicRollers Forever - His Majesty's TheatreA warm, funny, tartan-clad musical about the Bay City Rollers and the fans who adored them.His Majesty's Theatre, Aberdeen1.30pm · ArtHalloween Craft & Sip: Pottery Pumpkins (adults, BYOB)Hand-build up to three clay pumpkins, decorated and fired by the studio; adults bring their own drinks.The Craft Pottery Studio, Glasgow2pm · ArtBookIns - Aberdeen Art GalleryA mass read-aloud, where readers bring a favourite and everyone reads from it at the same time.Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen2pm · MusicGlasgow Phoenix Choir: Autumn CelebrationThe long-running Glasgow choir in a concert in a Partick church.Glasgow2pm · ArtWorkshop: Jewellery Making - Aberdeen Art GalleryMaking bold, colourful jewellery from salvaged materials with the local maker Aubin Stewart.Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen2pm · Traditional musicCeltic Embroidery WorkshopA beginners' embroidery session using Celtic and Viking designs, part of the Samhain Feis in Dornoch.Historylinks Museum, Dornoch2pm · WorkshopsNeedle Felting Workshop: Seascape or Landscape PictureNeedle-felt a seascape or landscape picture, from a choice of designs or a personal photograph.H1 Building, Hill of Rubislaw, Aberdeen2.30pm · MusicLet's Play The Piano UKA monthly get-together for piano lovers, run in nine UK cities.Glasgow2.30pm · MusicKC Community Choir Autumn ShowcaseA community choir's showcase concert, all about the joy of singing together.Glasgow3pm · FamilyChildren's Classic Concerts: Creepy CarnivalA Halloween family concert from the RSNO and Children's Classic Concerts, set in a haunted fairground.Glasgow3pm · FamilyClearwater Open Day & Beach ExplorationA family afternoon exploring the beaches, with talks about the sea on the Rosneath peninsula.Helensburgh3pm · WhiskyGrand Tasting: Afternoon Session @ Royal Dornoch Golf ClubThe second sitting of the grand whisky tasting at Royal Dornoch, with 25 of Scotland's best-known drams.Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Dornoch3pm · MusicQuartet MalamatinaA new Scottish guitar quartet reimagining classical music for today.Pennan Hall, Pennan3pm · MusicInverness Goes Large!The veteran club DJ and former Radio 1 presenter, with nearly three decades of dance music behind him.Inverness Leisure, Inverness4.30pm · WhiskyWhisky Tasting featuring BladnochAn evening tasting whiskies from Bladnoch, the Lowland distillery in Wigtownshire.Girvan Community Garden, Girvan5.30pm · ComedyMark Cox - Breakneck Comedy ClubThe actor who played Tam in Still Game, out on a new stand-up tour.Breakneck Comedy Club, Aberdeen5.30pm · WellnessSaturday Self-care - Sound Bath & MeditationA yoga nidra meditation that eases into a sound bath, aimed at better sleep.The Glencorse Centre, Auchendinny6pm · Food and drinkWhisky & Storytelling at Links HouseA whisky supper club with a director of the Speyside whisky merchants Gordon & MacPhail.Links House, Dornoch6pm · MusicDodieThe English singer-songwriter reimagines her second album, live and in full.The Queen's Hall, Edinburgh6pm · FamilyBadger Banquet at MerseheadBadgers come to feed in the garden after dark, watched from inside the Sulwath Centre at Mersehead.RSPB Scotland Mersehead, Southwick6.30pm · WalksIlluminator Night Trail Race - Aboyne and Deeside Community Education CentreA night trail race on Deeside over 8 or 15km, open to runners and walkers.Aboyne and Deeside Community Education Centre, Aboyne6.30pm · EventReverse Rett Scottish GalaA charity gala weekend in support of Reverse Rett, which funds research into Rett syndrome.Apex Dunblane Hydro Hotel, Dunblane7pm · Food and drinkLochlea Paired Dinner @ Dornoch StationA whisky dinner with the Ayrshire distillery Lochlea, part of the Dornoch Whisky Festival.Dornoch Station Hotel, Dornoch7pm · MusicHue and CryThe Scottish pop duo of brothers Pat and Greg Kane, on tour.Edinburgh7pm · MusicThe LevellersThe Brighton folk-rock band behind One Way and What a Beautiful Day, a fixture of festival fields.Glasgow7pm · MusicArlo ParksThe London singer-songwriter and poet whose debut album, Collapsed in Sunbeams, won the Mercury Prize.Glasgow7pm · EventCream X Unit 51 - a Decade on the Dancefloor - Unit 51A night from Cream, the Liverpool superclub, back for the Aberdeen club's tenth birthday.Unit 51, Aberdeen7pm · MusicThe Vintage ExplosionBand who went viral playing blues, with a string of number ones on the Apple Music blues chart.Glasgow7pm · MusicMusic Hall Ceilidh with Danse McCabre - Music HallA big city-centre ceilidh with the band Danse McCabre, part of a second series.Music Hall, Aberdeen7pm · FamilyFat White FamilyThe South London band formed in a Peckham squat, known for chaotic, unruly shows.Glasgow7pm · MusicSpace - The TunnelsThe Liverpool indie band behind the 1990s hits Female of the Species and The Ballad of Tom Jones.The Tunnels, Aberdeen7pm · MusicPorkPie - The Lemon TreeA band at the heart of the modern ska revival, carrying on the sound of 2-Tone.The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen7pm · EventFrankly, the Smiths & Laid / Ivory Blacks / Glasgow/ 24th octoberA double bill of tribute bands, one to The Smiths and one to James.Ivory Blacks, Glasgow7pm · MusicTrail WestA six-piece band with strong roots in the Western Highlands and Islands, known for high-energy live shows.Corran Halls, Oban7pm · BooksHave YOU Seen My Mojo?An evening of song and spoken word in North Berwick.St Andrew Blackadder Church, North Berwick7pm · EventMacmuse in Upstairs, InvernessA Muse tribute band marking the anniversaries of Origins of Symmetry and Black Holes and Revelations.Mad Hatters (upstairs at Hootananny Ceilidh Cafe Bar), Inverness7.30pm · MusicDaniel Ciobanu Concert - Inverurie Town HallThe Romanian pianist, who studied at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, in recital.Inverurie Town Hall, Inverurie7.30pm · MusicRSNO/27: Brahms’ Violin ConcertoBrahms's Violin Concerto and music of northern landscapes, with the RSNO under the Finnish conductor Emilia Hoving.Glasgow7.30pm · TheatreSounds of the 70s - The Tivoli TheatreA night of 1970s hits, from T. Rex and Bowie to Mott the Hoople and the Bay City Rollers.The Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen7.30pm · BooksBrian Bilston - How To Lay An Egg with a Horse Inside | TOLBOOTH |One of the UK's most popular poets, known for his funny and clever verse.How To Lay An Egg with a Horse Inside | TOLBOOTH |7.30pm · MusicThe Ainsley Hamill TrioThe Scottish singer and her trio, with songs in Scots, English and Gaelic.Kilmelford & Kilniver Village Hall, Oban7.45pm · MusicThe Greig Taylor Band and The Hellfire ClubBlues, soul and rock from the Greig Taylor Band, with roots and Americana from The Hellfire Club in support.Dunoon Burgh Hall, Dunoon8pm · MusicThe Guns N' Roses Experience - DrummondsA Guns N' Roses tribute, with a singer matching Axl Rose's voice and stage show.Drummonds, Aberdeen8pm · EventLizzie & The Banshees - KrakatoaA tribute to Siouxsie and the Banshees.Krakatoa, Aberdeen8pm · FamilyMichael Akadiri: Don't Call Me Uncle!Stand-up from a junior doctor turned touring comic.Glasgow11pm · EventKimmicAn all-night-long DJ set in a warehouse room, one crowd and one act from start to finish.GlasgowAll day · ArtEvent: Cut Away Edinburgh: Academician’s Masterclass: Robbie Bushe RSAA masterclass with the Scottish artist Robbie Bushe, building busy staged scenes drawn from the streets.Royal Scottish Academy, EdinburghAll day · MusicRich Hall: Chin MusicThe deadpan American comic Rich Hall, sharp, quick and making much of it up on the spot.OrkneyAll day · ArtDrawing Inspiration: The Mindful Line: Drawing Techniques for Art and WellbeingA drawing workshop in the galleries, using mindful techniques for art and wellbeing.The Burrell Collection, GlasgowAll day · FamilyIn Tronversation with Johnny McKnightThe Scottish writer, director and panto dame in conversation about his career and his long link with the theatre.Tron Theatre, GlasgowAll day · AdultsA Scottish Comedy Collective | Theatre | ComedyA night of live stand-up from a group of Scottish comics, for over-18s.Beacon Arts Centre, GreenockAll day · SeasonalShaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy BottomShaun the Sheep and the flock face a mysterious beast on the farm at Halloween, a new film from Aardman.An Lanntair, StornowayAll day · MusicDIGNITY The Deacon Blue ExperienceA six-piece tribute to the Scottish band Deacon Blue, from Raintown to Circus Lights.Byre Theatre, St AndrewsAll day · FamilyMcManus Creates: McMonster MasterpiecesA free family Halloween craft session at the city's museum, making creepy crafts and accessories.DundeeAll day · DanceThe NutcrackerA touring company dances The Nutcracker, the Christmas ballet of Clara and her nutcracker doll.DundeeAll day · FamilyGlamis Castle Pumpkin PatchA pumpkin patch at Glamis Castle, where children choose a pumpkin to take home.GlamisAll day · DanceKingennie Hoedown ShowdownA country-style afternoon party with a line dancing lesson.DundeeAll day · FamilyFreezin’A family pantomime in which the wicked Jack Frost freezes a whole kingdom solid.ArbroathAll day · EventFoam DaysDays of sliding through giant clouds of foam at the water coaster park in Carrbridge.CairngormsAll day · ComedyComic Con ScotlandThe pop culture convention, with film and TV guests signing, posing for photos and talking on stage.NewbridgeAll day · TheatreA Play, A Pie & A PintA lunchtime comedy in which Shakespeare's Bottom has one plan only, served with a pie and a pint.Traverse Theatre, EdinburghAll day · MusicNTS Harmony Garden Annual Apple EventTwo days of apples at the Harmony Garden in Melrose, with an apple display, fresh fruit, music and workshops.MelroseAll day · WildlifeNORTH SEA - NATURE UNTAMED (U)A wildlife film on the hidden life of the North Sea, by a Dutch filmmaker.NATURE UNTAMED (U), KirkcaldyAll day · FamilyPRACTICAL MAGIC 2 (12A)The sequel about a family of witches cursed never to find lasting love.KirkcaldyAll day · EventDR RICHARD SHEPHERD: TIME OF DEATHThe forensic pathologist behind Unnatural Causes on the real work of investigating death.DunfermlineAll day · DanceDEVILS DIP - Halloween themed wellness event, yoga, dance, cold water dipA Halloween wellness afternoon on Loch Lomond's shore, with yoga, breathwork, dance and a cold-water dip.AlexandriaAll day · WalksFossil PlantsWalks and talks on fossil plants and how they shaped the air, animals and landscapes of today.EdinburghAll day · WalksLinlithgow Pumpkin TrailA free family trail round the town to find the decorated pumpkins in the shop windows.LinlithgowAll day · EventDo Not Pass GoJordan & Skinner tell the story of Lizzie Magie, who invented the game that became Monopoly, at the Heart of Hawick.Heart of Hawick, HawickAll day · ArtAn Introduction to Fabric PleatingKate Colin of Kate Colin Design teaches fabric pleating, from simple accordion pleats to herringbone, and makes a set of sculptural samples.The Out of the Blue Drill Hall, EdinburghAll day · ArtPearl StringingAnja Moehler teaches two professional pearl-stringing methods and how to make an endless knotted pearl necklace.Central Scotland School of Jewellery, Craft Central, DunblaneAll day · ArtSelf Portrait: The Alter EgoDress up as an alter ego and make self-portrait drawings through a series of exercises with Jo Richardson. Sold out.Leith School of Art, EdinburghAll day · ArtThe Printed PosterDesign handmade posters using monotype, gelli printing and collage with Ursula Bevan Hunter.Leith School of Art, EdinburghAll day · ArtWatermarks: An Art & Writing Half Day WorkshopA free art and writing workshop for 16 to 25-year-olds on the theme of water, starting in two museums.DundeeAll day · WorkshopsFloral Pumpkin WorkshopMake a floral pumpkin for Halloween with Flora by Katya in Kippen.Kippen Reading Rooms, Kippen

Sunday

25 October

Featured · until 12 December

Alyth Arches Tours

The Alyth Arches, the ruins of the town's medieval church, are usually padlocked; guided tours now take visitors inside.

Alyth
9am · ArtPhotography Workshop - Autumn ColoursA relaxed morning photographing autumn colour on an estate near Peebles with the photographer Graham Riddell.Kailzie Estate, Peebles10am · HistoryLombard Historic Rally FestivalHistoric rally cars at full tilt on a special stage laid through the grounds of a Borders castle.Floors Castle, Kelso10am · WalksGuided Fungi WalkA guided walk through the Hopetoun grounds, known for their fungi lawns and mushroom-rich woods.Hopetoun House, South Queensferry10am · WalksBird walk for Beginners OctoberA gentle bird walk round Baron's Haugh in Motherwell with tips for beginners.RSPB Scotland Baron's Haugh, Motherwell10.30am · MusicCommunity Music Day - Participate! - Aberdeen Art GalleryA relaxed day of music-making for instrumentalists of any age, ending in a short performance.Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen10.30am · ArtHalloween Craft & Sip: Pottery Pumpkins (adults, BYOB)Hand-build up to three clay pumpkins, decorated and fired by the studio; adults bring their own drinks.The Craft Pottery Studio, Glasgow11am · FamilyHalloween Fun Day At TraquairA day of spooky fun for all ages at the ancient house near Innerleithen.Traquair House, Innerleithen11am · FamilyAutumn Family DayA day out for families in the grounds of Hopetoun, the grand house near South Queensferry.Hopetoun House, South Queensferry11am · HistoryMake a pre-historic pot with Barb GrayA pottery workshop making a replica prehistoric pot with Barb Gray of Experience History.Historylinks Museum, Dornoch11am · ArtCraft Sunday: Mini Quilted Wall Hangings with Amy JonesA relaxed workshop with the artist Amy Jones, making a mini quilted wall hanging.Dundee Contemporary Arts, Dundee11am · AdultsMindfulness WalkA slow, sensory walk round the Lochwinnoch reserve with a mindfulness teacher.RSPB Scotland Lochwinnoch, Lochwinnoch11am · MusicMake a prehistoric pot workshopA workshop making a pot by hand the way it was done in prehistoric times.Historylinks Museum Hub, Dornoch12pm · MarketsMonthly Markets at the MarineA monthly afternoon market of craft stalls in a Brora hotel.Royal Marine Hotel, Brora12pm · MarketsMonthly Makers and Producers MarketA monthly market of local makers and food producers in the stables of the Falkland Estate.The Stables, Falkland Estate, Falkland1pm · FamilyFreezin - the Tivoli's Enchanting October Family Pantomime! - The Tivoli TheatreA family pantomime in which the wicked Jack Frost freezes a whole kingdom solid.The Tivoli Theatre, Aberdeen1pm · WalksAnxiety & Stress Busting WalkA walk at Lochwinnoch with calming techniques along the way, for adults.RSPB Scotland Lochwinnoch, Lochwinnoch1.30pm · ArtLife Drawing SessionA life drawing session in Thurso, drawing from a live model.Haven Coffee Shop, Thurso1.45pm · MusicScottish Opera - Turandot - Touch TourA tour of the set, props and costumes of Scottish Opera's Turandot, for blind and partially sighted audiences.Touch Tour, Glasgow2pm · EventWar Graves Cemetery Tours - Trinity CemeteryA Commonwealth War Graves Commission tour of the cemetery's graves from both world wars.Trinity Cemetery, Aberdeen2pm · HistoryGuided Tree WalkA guided walk among the trees of the Hopetoun grounds, taking in their ecology, history and folklore.Hopetoun House, South Queensferry2pm · MusicSunday Teas & Car BootA Shetland afternoon of teas and home bakes, with live music and a car boot sale, in Brae.Shetland2pm · Food and drinkThe Big Bike Film NightA two-and-a-half-hour programme of short films about the fun and adventure of cycling.Eden Court Theatre and Cinema, Inverness2pm · FamilyFamily Print ClubPrint textures with recycled materials such as bubble wrap and bottle tops, as a family session with Morven Ferguson.Edinburgh Printmakers, Edinburgh3pm · MusicCreepy CarnivalA spooky family concert set in an abandoned fairground of creaking Ferris wheels and roller ghosters.Usher Hall, Edinburgh3pm · MusicCommunity Music Day - Sharing - Aberdeen Art GalleryThe sound festival's community orchestra plays what it has made in a day of music-making.Aberdeen Art Gallery, Aberdeen3pm · MusicAinsley Hamill in ConcertThe Scottish traditional singer in concert in the church at Rhu.Rhu and Shandon Parish Church Hall, Helensburgh4pm · MusicPJW: Niamh CorkeyThe Fife-born, Glasgow-based singer weaving Scottish and Irish folk roots with jazz melody.Eastgate Theatre Eastgate, Peebles, EH45 8AD, Peebles4.30pm · FamilyPitmedden Garden Family Halloween Trail - Pitmedden GardenA ghostly Halloween trail through the walled garden, with a trick-or-treat bag for children.Pitmedden Garden, Pitmedden6pm · Food and drinkThe Final Dram @ The Royal Dornoch Golf ClubThe closing evening of the Dornoch Whisky Festival, with good food and a last dram at the golf club.Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Dornoch6.30pm · DanceThe Legends - Vegas: After Hours TourFive former Strictly Come Dancing professionals in a Vegas-themed night of dance.Vegas: After Hours Tour7pm · MusicLake Street DiveBoston band who met at music college, mixing soul, pop and jazz.Glasgow7pm · TheatreChris Ramsey: Here ManThe Geordie comic and podcaster, back on the road with a new stand-up show.Glasgow7pm · MusicGoldfordLA singer-songwriter with soulful, gritty vocals and sincere lyrics.Òran Mór, Glasgow7pm · EventFat Freddy's DropNew Zealand's dub, soul and reggae collective from Wellington, a famously long, loose live band.Glasgow7pm · EventI Promised The WorldTexas post-hardcore band with scream-along choruses and heavy breakdowns.Glasgow7pm · FamilyMake Your Own Textured Silver Ring with Kristina Merchant at Birnam ArtsA jewellery workshop with Kristina Merchant, making a textured silver ring to take home.Birnam Arts, Birnam7pm · TheatreHopeA Korean creature film, where a village police chief hunts a beast that has been wreaking havoc.Eden Court, Inverness7.30pm · MusicThe ShamrocksA troupe bringing the rousing atmosphere of a traditional Irish pub to the stage.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicToto the Ninja CatA family stage show from Dermot O'Leary's books about a cat with a secret ninja life.Edinburgh7.30pm · MusicThe PooziesThe long-running women's folk band that first made its name in the early 90s.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicThe KlittensFive untrained but unbothered musicians making happy songs with sad sentiments.Glasgow7.30pm · MusicDr Richard Shepherd – Time of Death – More Unnatural CausesThe forensic pathologist behind Unnatural Causes on the real work of investigating death.The Queen's Hall, Edinburgh7.30pm · TheatreWitch HuntA new musical inspired by the Scottish witch trials, following three accused women on the run.Cottiers, Glasgow7.30pm · DanceSwan LakeThe classic ballet of Odette, cursed to be a swan by day, and the prince who vows to break the spell.PerthAll day · FamilyChildren's Classic ConcertsA Halloween orchestral concert for children, set in a creepy carnival.EdinburghAll day · FamilyHalloween Spooktacular Fun DayVictorian toys, Halloween crafts, pond dipping and a trail, with prizes for the best dressed.Paxton House, PaxtonAll day · MusicRoyal Conservatoire of Scotland at Beacon | Gallery Suite | Classical, MusicStudents from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in a short Sunday concert.Beacon Arts Centre, GreenockAll day · TheatreWhat Wood Victoria Do? | Studio | Comedy, TheatreA comic tribute to Victoria Wood, with her songs and sketches.Beacon Arts Centre, GreenockAll day · FamilyThe Pumpkin PatchA family day in the gardens, with storytelling in song, pumpkin carving, crafts and games.East LothianAll day · Dark skiesThe Night Sky ShowThe astronomer Adrian West, known as VirtualAstro, with a big-screen show about the night sky.DundeeAll day · MusicBARBARA DICKSON: THE FINAL DUNFERMLINE CONCERTThe Scottish singer's last Dunfermline concert, with her pianist Nick Holland.DunfermlineAll day · FamilyHallowDean Family Fun DayA Halloween day for families at an ancient castle, with fancy dress prizes and no big scares.AyrshireAll day · WalksThe Broommaker’s WorkshopA Halloween evening of broom making by Forfar Loch, among tales of witches and wise women.Forfar

The big ones this season

Exhibitions, festivals and gatherings we have been to and photographed, with their dates.

V&A Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show, DundeeMore info3 April to 17 JanuaryV&A Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion ShowDundeeFrance-Lise McGurn: The Charm OffensiveMore info22 August to 15 NovemberFrance-Lise McGurn: The Charm OffensiveDundeeMore info1 September to 26 NovemberDrawing InspirationGlasgowMore info5 September to 30 NovemberJohn Bellany: AnchoredAnstrutherMore info18 September to 21 NovemberClann-Nighean an Sgadain / Following the FishStornowayMore info25 September to 24 OctoberHealth of the Sublime, The BarnBanchoryMore info26 September to 12 DecemberAlyth Arches ToursAlythMore info3 October to 18 NovemberCitizens Theatre heritage building toursGlasgowThe Enchanted Forest 2026More info8 October to 8 NovemberThe Enchanted Forest 2026PitlochryMore info9 to 28 OctoberLiz Myhill at Gallery An Talla DeargIsleornsayMore info9 to 18 OctoberSouth of Scotland Dark Sky FestivalDumfries and GallowayThe Royal National Mòd 2026More info9 to 17 OctoberThe Royal National Mòd 2026Glasgow

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Days Out plans the rest of the day around where you are going: somewhere to eat, a walk or a castle on the way, written by people who live there.

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Whaligoe Steps, Caithness

Running something?

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