The Guide to Scotland's Festivals 2013 by Creative Scotland

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THE GUIDE TO

SCOTLAND’S

FESTIVALS 2013 MUSIC BOOKS ART E THEATR FILM COMEDY FAMILY FOOD DRINK R OUTDOO RE! AND MO

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GRAHAM SMITH

THE GUIDE TO

SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS 2013

8 10 12 14

GADGET GURU Tech to enhance the festival experience

FIDDLIN’ AROUND Karine Polwart’s pick of the folk fests

SUPER SCRAN

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS

EDINBURGH FESTIVALS

Palate-pleasing festival menus

Highland games and sporting events

OFFBEAT GEMS Some of this year’s more unusual entries

OOT AND ABOOT

Scotland’s Festival City in August

Walking festivals

LISTINGS JANUARY

MAY

SEPTEMBER

FEBRUARY

JUNE

OCTOBER

MARCH

JULY

NOVEMBER

APRIL

AUGUST

DECEMBER

85 INDEX Find exactly which fest you’re looking for (organised by name, genre and location)

94 MAP Explaining Scotland’s different areas 3

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THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS 2013

FOREWORD

MANIPULATE

Throughout the year, and across all parts of Scotland, there are hundreds of festivals – from small local gatherings to major events on the international calendar. If ‘festival’ means celebration, Scotland celebrates culture 52 weeks a year.

World-class theatre, puppetry, animation and film from around the globe comes together with home-grown practitioners in a fortnight of innovative and colourful performances. 3–16 Feb. manipulatefestival.org

Creative Scotland is delighted to support this publication, in partnership with EventScotland and VisitScotland, which recognises the importance that festivals play in the cultural life and national identity of Scotland. Scotland is the place to immerse yourself in arts and culture and this guide showcases some of the highlights of the festival year.

TRADFEST

SOUND

BIG BURNS SUPPER

Sound features every type of musical genre you’ve ever heard of, and probably many you haven’t, during a month-long series of events across north east Scotland. 23 Oct–18 Nov. sound-scotland.co.uk

Brightening up January no end, the Big Burns Supper honours Scotland’s Bard across a weekend of familyfriendly activity in Dumfries and Galloway. 25–27 Jan. bigburnssupper.com

MAN-HIGH

A new festival showcasing Scotland’s traditional arts, and acting as a curtain raiser to the summer of fèisean celebrations. 24 Apr–6 May. scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk/ tradfest/tradfest.asp

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PHOTO © GORDON DUNCAN

2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

MUSIC AT PAXTON

The world’s largest youth music festival hits Scotland with a series of public performances taking place across the country. Feb–Mar. mfy.org.uk/regional

Ten days of the highest quality chamber music, presented in beautiful surroundings. 19–28 Jul. musicatpaxton.co.uk

SCOTLAND LOVES ANIME

WIGTOWN BOOK FESTIVAL

Bringing Japanese animated cinema to Scotland, and supporting young Scottish-based animators in the process. 11–20 Oct. lovesanimation.com

Scotland’s National Book Town swells each autumn, when the festival, one of the highlights in the Scottish calendar, takes over. 27 Sep–6 Oct. wigtownbookfestival.com

PHOTO © ALAN RICHARDSON

MUSIC FOR YOUTH FESTIVALS

LUMINATE

BLUE SKIES FESTIVAL

A month-long, country-wide focus on arts by and for older people. 2012 saw over 200 events take place across Scotland. Oct. luminatescotland.org

Dundee’s cultural community comes together for a unique weekend of free events taking place across – and often, above! – the city. Aug. dundeeblueskies.co.uk

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Project editor: Suzanne Black Production manager: Simon Armin Designer: Lucy Munro Research assistant: Jen Bowden Contributors: Niki Boyle, Hannah Ewan, Nicola Meighan, Anna Millar, David Pollock, Claire Ritchie, Kirstyn Smith, Jack Taylor Advertising: Juliet Tweedie, Nicky Carter, Sheri Friers, Chris Knox, Debbie Thomson Digital Director: Simon Dessain Publisher: Robin Hodge Cover Image: T In The Park This guide was produced in conjunction with Creative Scotland, EventScotland and VisitScotland. The project manager within Creative Scotland was Bernie Regan with support from Kate Campbell of EventScotland.

INTRODUCING THIS GUIDE For a small nation Scotland is jam-packed with cultural goings on. From the traditional, making the most of the country’s rich heritage, literature and landscape, to the out-of-the-ordinary and the cutting edge, utilising digital technology, inspired ideas and a wealth of home-grown talent, Scotland offers an overwhelming array of festivals for all tastes. To help navigate through the vast number on offer, The List, Scotland’s leading arts and entertainment guide, has compiled a comprehensive overview. Descriptions for each festival, a selection of features (p8–14) picking up on some of 2013’s trends and a series of indexes organised by festival name, genre and location mean there’s no excuse for not finding the perfect festival (or ten) for you, whatever you’re into and wherever you are. Listings start on page 22. HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

Published by The List Ltd HEAD OFFICE 14 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1TE Tel: 0131 550 3050 Fax: 0131 557 8500 www.list.co.uk email festivals@list.co.uk © 2013 The List Ltd All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission in writing of The List Ltd. This edition published January 2013 Printed by Acorn Web Offset Ltd.

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Festivals are listed in date order. In cases where the exact date has not been decided at the time of going to press, they are listed alphabetically at the end of each month. Each entry includes an address and box-office phone number and/or website. All dates are for 2013.

DISCLAIMER : The List magazine has made every effort to ensure information published in this guide is correct. Line-ups, times and dates can change at short notice, however, so please check with the festival before attending. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors the guide may contain. For up-to-date listings information go to list.co.uk. Festival organisers can get in touch at festivals@list.co.uk. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Drams to try, masterclasses, live music, whisky tour, fo od.

stival. Music Fe ’s g o D w Bre ludes 0/30. Inc 2 £ s t e k Tic lph’s n, Rando Fatherso itty copolis, K Leap, Dis x. ux Miaou o ia M , n the Lio

Best in roots music from around the world. Concerts, ceilidhs, sessions.

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THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS 2013

FESTIVAL CHECKLIST Niki Boyle hunts down the most innovative gadgets and apps designed to make the most of the festival experience

1) IFEST Everything you need at a music fest: GPS tent finder, line-up guide, stage times, weather forecasts and social networking linkage. Price: 69p Stockist: iTunes | 2) SHAZAM Lets you know who sings that pretty little ditty you overheard between the beer garden and the public loos. Price: Free Stockist: shazam.com | 3) WIND TURBINE CHARGER Avoid the all-too-likely risk of overcast skies and charge your phone with an almost-guaranteed stiff breeze instead. Price: £36.99 Stockist: hymini.com | 4) GOCARSHARE Hitch a ride with fellow festival-goers and chip in for the petrol. Cheaper than the bus, plus you make new friends. Price: Free Stockist: gocarshare.com

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2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

5) WALKIE TALKIES You can never guarantee decent network coverage at festivals. Invest in some two-way radios instead – these ones reach 3km. Price: £15.98 Stockist: Binatone.com | 6) SOLAR-POWERED BACKPACK One for the optimists. This will charge your phone/camera/forklift truck battery while you saunter about, provided the sun’s shining. Price: £131.80 Stockist: o-range.com | 7) OFFICIAL FRINGE APP Show times, venue details, half price ticket offers – just the thing if you don’t have a copy of The List handy. Price: Free Stockist: edfringe.com | 8) WATERPROOF TECH CASE Use your device without fear of getting it wet – you don’t even have to take it out of the case. Price: £39.99 (this model) Stockist: over-board.co.uk

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2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

FOLKY DOKEY Folk circuit regular Karine Polwart tells Nicola Meighan about her favourite Scottish folk festivals

arine Polwart is one of our most vital and sublime folk voices. A multiple BBC Folk Award winner and former member of The Battlefield Band and Malinky, she also performs in indie-folk super-group The Burns Unit (King Creosote, Emma Pollock, Sushil Dade). Polwart’s latest album, Traces (produced by Iain Cook of CHVRCHES / The Unwinding Hours), is beautiful, poetic and forceful: a landmark in the Scottish canon. Below are her picks for 2013. CELTIC CONNECTIONS

‘The scope of its programming is a wonder: the international span; the deliberate inter-genre collisions that have, in my opinion, helped foster a fluid and inventive music scene in Scotland; the offsetting of stripped-back traditional styles with contemporary experimentation. In the smaller print, check out the New Voices series, in which young Scotland-based writers/composers are commissioned to work on a grander scale than they’d normally be able to. And try to catch fiddler Duncan Chisholm’s ‘Strathglass Suite’ at Kelvingrove Art Gallery. I’ve no doubt the space and the music will love each other.’ ■ See page 22.

SHETLAND FOLK FESTIVAL

‘I’ve played here once, in 2002, with the ScotsIrish quintet Malinky. Backstage at the cavernous Clickimin in Lerwick, I began to scribble a song called ‘Follow The Heron’. It became my own sort of hymn to the festival: ‘by night and day, we’ll sport and we’ll play and delight as the dawn dances over the bay . . .’ That’s where it’s at with Shetland Folk Festival. If you want to really get it, you need to see the morning in, having sung, played, listened and utterly filled up to bursting with blistering reels, bluegrass hollering (there are always excellent US acts) and a glorious swell of harmony singing in the stairwell. I found it transformative 10 years ago – a turning of darkness into light. To go is to have some of the best fun you’ll ever have, but also, if you’re lucky,

to sense something deeper in the amazing people you’ll meet. Guard your liver, of course. And open your heart.’ ■ See page 36.

ORKNEY FOLK FESTIVAL

‘I’ve stayed up late singing ever-more-gruesome murder ballads and witnessed the Scottish jazzfolk fusion scene performing in daylight dressed as chickens. There’s always a superlative and interesting international line-up, with unexpected on-the-hoof collaborations. And most importantly, there’s the Sunday afternoon Orkney versus The Rest of the World football match, at which you can witness folk at its finest: shamelessly unwashed and hungover, in shit shorts and lycra.’ ■ See page 42.

INNERLEITHEN MUSIC FESTIVAL

‘Innerleithen Festival in the Scottish Borders takes real pride in supporting local artists as well as big-noise folkies. Evening gigs are hosted in the stout Memorial Hall in the heart of the town, but the festival vibe is created by a wealth of daytime workshops (harmony singing, Border Ballads) and pub sessions. This whole area is steeped in myth and song.’ ■ See page 66.

CEOL CHOLASA

‘There’s one boat on and off Colonsay for the festival weekend, and a strictly finite number of beds and tickets. But my, it’s beautiful – [from] Saturday’s whirlwind of a ceilidh [to being] entertained by the likes of LAU, Karen Mathieson and Roddy Woomble. The real charms are out of hours, as ever, with inter-band dance-offs in the stunning Atlantic arc of Kiloran Bay, or supping bespoke Bruichladdich (let it not be said that whisky has played a part in my festival selection), while chatting to oystermen and beekeepers, artists and landed gentry, as tunes unravel in a kitchen. Not to be missed.’ ■ See page 73. 11

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THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS 2013

WEIRD & WONDERFUL Jen Bowden walks on the wilder side of Scotland’s festivals scene and rounds up some of the more intriguing events in the 2013 calendar Crieff Berry Festival

Festival of Erotic Arts

cotland is a land of celebration, but being home to over 350 festivals it’s often difficult to see past the music-dominated extravaganzas and the Edinburgh Festivals. However, beneath the radar exists a younger, more niche breed of festival. Gloriously offbeat, these gems cater for everyone from berry-lovers to wannabe Viking movie stars.

MANIPULATE

Puppetry and animation combine with performing arts of all styles and techniques in this festival from Puppet Animation Scotland. Held each February at Edinburgh’s Traverse Theatre, performers come from throughout the world to take part in productions and masterclasses. The visual experience might be whimsical, but these events don’t shy away from very real subjects. ■ See page 24.

FESTIVAL OF DANGEROUS IDEAS

This education festival aims to challenge, peovoke and generate ideas with a series of events across the country. This year Mel Young, president of the Homeless World Cup, launches the fest, which includes a wilderness journey, virtual games, philosophy cafés and theatre at The Arches in Glasgow. ■ See page 50.

FESTIVAL OF EROTIC ARTS

This is only the second year that the festival has run, bringing with it a heady mix of erotic literature, film, talks and workshops. A celebration 12

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Luminate

of the multi-faceted art of erotica is combined with a sex-positive culture, so expect events that aren’t afraid to be laid bare. ■ See page 49.

CRIEFF BERRY FESTIVAL

Crieff takes its onslaught of all things round and juicy to a new level with an annual berry festival. A celebration of the local soft fruit season, the businesses of the area offer seasonal berry dishes, berry-themed visitor attractions and a visit from Strathearn’s very own Struan the Giant Strawberry. Berry nice indeed. ■ See page 65.

FOOD ON FILM

While most of us settle for popcorn when we get the munchies at the movies, the residents of Kingussie have gone one step further, merging food-themed films and gourmet gastro-events at this annual festival. This year’s event includes a première set in a fish and chip shop and a whiskythemed screening of Ken Loach’s The Angels’ Share. ■ See page 23.

LUMINATE

You’re never too old to learn ballet – or funky Brazilian drumming – according to the organisers of Scotland’s Creative Ageing Festival. These events celebrate creativity for all generations with age-defying artist collaborations, exhibitions, performances and workshops. ■ See page 76. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION Haggis Hostels 5/3 West Register Street Edinburgh Scotland EH2 2AA info@haggishostels.co.uk www.haggishostels.co.uk

SCOTLAND’S LIVING TRADITIONS Music, Song, Storytelling, Dance You’ve seen the landscape, vibrant cities and rich history… Don’t miss out on the warmth and energy of a modern culture inspired by tradition.

Free high speed internet access

FESTIVALS Scotland serves up a feast of local and national festivals throughout the year. See: www.creativescotland.com/festivals www.feisean.org; www.tmsa.org.uk www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS From tasters to master classes, experience Scotland’s living traditions. Learn more about our diverse culture and try out new skills. www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk www.feisean.org

FEISEANS AND CEILIDH TRAILS See and hear Scotland’s Gaelic traditions of music, song and ceilidh. www.feisaen.org Check out local sessions in halls, pubs, museums, and arts centres in local Tourist Information Centres. Further information also on www.tmsa.org.uk; www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

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THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS 2013

TAK’ THE HIGH ROAD David Pollock rounds up some of the best festivals dedicated to getting out and about in Scotland’s stunning natural environment

or dedicated ramblers and hillwalkers, Scotland is of course one of the finest countries in the world to indulge their passion. Yet for keen amateurs and those with at least a little fitness and just as much curiosity, walking can be the ideal way to see the views of the country the guide books can’t replicate. For those of all abilities who want to be shown where to go in the experience of professional guides over week-long or long weekend events – with a social element which often incorporates some of the local tourist attractions – an organised walking festival might hold some appeal.

ARRAN MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL

A community-led outdoor festival celebrating one of Scotland’s finest island mountain landscapes, the Arran Mountain Festival is a four-day event featuring a variety of walks and scrambles through one of the most southerly Scottish isles. Located just off the west coast and best reached by a ferry from Ardrossan, attractions on Arran include the historic Brodick Castle, the Arran Distillery and the Arran Brewery, as well as many golf courses. Led by qualified mountain guides, everything from nature walks along the coast to scrambles across high granite ridges are on the itinerary. ■ See page 41.

SCOTTISH BORDERS WALKING FESTIVAL

First held in 1995 in West Linton, this festival has the honour of being the longest-established event of its type in Scotland. Usually held in the first week of September, with roughly three walks per day for around a hundred participants, it’s particularly attractive to returning visitors because it shifts location to a new town and surrounding area every year. Evening entertainment is also provided. ■ See page 70.

MORAY WALKING FESTIVAL

CRIEFF & STRATHEARN DROVERS’ TRYST

A walking festival which seeks to impart a little historical colour, the Drovers’ Tryst is inspired by annual parties held every October around Michaelmas in the 1700s, where cattle drovers from the surrounding area would converge on Crieff for a week-long fair. Although walking is central to the festival, also on the menu are ceilidhs in the evening, deerstalking excursions at dusk or local cinema club trips, while the Hairy Coo mountain bike race is a day of biking activities around country tracks for youths and adults.

Only recently established, the Moray Walking Festival is doing a good job of catering to a range of disparate groups who might be inspired by the Scottish tourism experience. The area is ‘Scotland’s Malt Whisky Country’, with the Glenfiddich and Glenlivet distilleries both part of Moray’s regular sightseeing trail. Beyond the bottom of the glass there is an enviable variety of terrain and sights, from the Cairngorm Mountains to the Moray Firth (with the potential for dolphin watching) and local forestry land. Based around the Moray Way, a 95-mile circular amalgam of the Dava Way, Moray Coast Trail and Speyside Way, the walks are all guide-led and given five gradings from easy to strenuous.

■ See page 79.

■ See page 51.

■ See page 38.

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NEWTON STEWART WALKING FESTIVAL

Deep in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway, in the south-west of Scotland, the town of Newton Stewart is well-sited for both its proximity to the coast and its location on the edge of Galloway Forest Park. WalkFest is now one of the biggest walking festivals in the south of Scotland, taking advantage of some beautiful scenery, which perhaps isn’t as well publicised as that of the Highlands, with around 28 linear, coastal and themed routes in seven days. All events are fully guided and all abilities are catered for, with social events also included in the evening.

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PHOTO © GORDON MORRISON

Crieff & Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst

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THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS 2013

FRESHENING UP Festival menus are dramatically improving. Hannah Ewan charts the rise in quality of on-site cuisine and ﬁnds six events leading the food revolution

ifting the lid of your (biodegradable) takeaway carton, what lies inside: a rubbery mystery meat burger or a buffalo one? Clammy fish and chips or moules marinières? A desire for high-quality menu options at festivals, including healthy and locally-sourced choices, has led to blackboards being rewritten to reflect the abundance of gastronomic delights that Scotland has to offer. 16

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Gone are the unflattering images of deep-fried Mars bars and, well, deep fried everything, and in their place is a bounty fit for a king (or a festival reveller in need of energy to keep going until the wee hours). And all this good eating needn’t break the bank, with local traders and artisan companies working with festivals to provide access to Scotland’s larder without the need for a lot of dough. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

BELLADRUM TARTAN HEART

ROCKNESS

‘We have two criteria,’ says BTH founder Joe Gibbs. ‘A high standard and to keep it as local as possible.’ He builds long-term relationships with reliable traders through a very grown-up pay structure: every pitch pays a percentage of their festival profits. If they do well, Joe does well. If it’s a bad year they don’t shoulder a huge loss from upfront fees. He’s found good suppliers of everything from wood-fired pizza to frozen yoghurt and organic craft beer – the only thing he’s struggled to find is a great Scottish curry company. ‘We’ve raised expectations,’ he says, ‘and there’s now a much stronger demand for healthy food.’

Relying to an impressive extent on Scotland’s larder, if you don’t eat properly at RockNess it’s not for lack of trying on their part. Venison chilli from local deer stalkers Winston Churchill Wild Venison, moules marinières from Loch Fyne Oysters and Alison MacKay of Stronmagachan Farm’s famous lamb stovies counter any ‘they only had chips’ excuses. Mind you, if/when you do want chips, get the real deal from Chunky Chips and Wicked Dips, who ask the very pertinent question: ‘Who can disagree that the absolute manifestation of greatness is the conversion of potatoes into the plain, yet perfect . . . chip?’ Quite so.

■ See page 59.

■ See page 48.

SOUTHERN FRIED

REWIND SCOTLAND: THE 80S FESTIVAL

Scotland’s premier festival of all things Americana proudly showcases Southern food. In fact, as festival director Andy Shearer explains: ‘The Southern and soul food menu has become as much a part of the Southern Fried Festival as the music itself – very much as it is ingrained in the culture of the Southern US.’ It all happens at Perth Concert Hall’s Glassrooms Restaurant, the highlight being the Soul Food Brunch, developed for Deep South authenticity with US food historian Dr Peggy Brunache. Expect vegetarian green gumbo, pulled pork, Smith Island cake, chocolate pecan pie and, of course, fried chicken.

Ostrich burger or a crocodile wrap? Or just hot, freshly fried churros dipped into thick chocolate sauce? Rewind’s ‘Posh Nosh’ food centre might not be all salads and tofu, but when it comes to the sheer variety and quality of scran it’s not the 80s any more. The food here errs towards the comforting, done well – hog roasts, woodfired pizzas and burgers or shepherd’s pie from Perthshire Farmers and Producers, home-made with local ingredients. New for 2013 is a Food from Argyll tent, filled with market-like stalls from hyper-local, small producers. Finally, there are the themed bars, from cocktails at the Big Top to gins at the 80s Lavish Lounge.

■ See page 55.

■ See page 56.

T IN THE PARK

THE WICKERMAN FESTIVAL

The world’s largest carbon neutral festival, TITP’s green policy and its food are closely linked. Vendors must use biodegradable food containers, and a 10p deposit is paid on recycled cups. The 30-plus stands in the ‘Healthy T’ arena cater for veggies, vegans and coeliacs. ‘With everything from Loch Fyne Oysters to falafels and gourmet burgers on offer, I think the fans really value the quality and diversity of the food options,’ says festival director Geoff Ellis. ‘Personally I’m a huge fan of the homemade lamb burgers and hot smoked salmon rolls.’ It’s not all smoothies and seafood though – there are ‘conventional’ (read less healthy) stands across the site for those 3am cravings.

Good vibes aren’t limited to the stages at Wickerman – grouping the food traders in a catering circle has created a chill-out area in which to relax over falafel and meze plates, a crepe, pakora or Thai curry. Some, like Katie’s Kitchen of the aforementioned Thai, have been pitching up for ten years, becoming sought out faces. There are a few thoughtfully placed units elsewhere too – all-day breakfast and Stoats porridge bars in the campsite, and a coffee and bacon roll stop in the Down and Dirty area to help while away time in the shower queue. ‘Festival goers are more demanding about what they want now,’ says festival coordinator Helen Chalmers. ‘And the number of people offering catering has increased dramatically over the last ten years.’

■ See page 55.

■ See page 56. 17

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| HIGHLIGHT SPORT EVENTS 2013 GOLF | HIGHLIGHT EVENTS 2013 FINA Diving World Series 19–21 Apr The FINA Diving World Series will be coming to the capital in April. This high-profile, annual competition offers an opportunity for the world’s best divers to compete in the run up to the Commonwealth Games. thecommiepool.co.uk IRB sevens 4–5 May It’s rugby – and with only seven players on each team, playing for seven minutes each half – every game is guaranteed to be played at a fast and furious pace. A fun day out for everyone and expect to see plenty of spectators in fancy dress! glasgow7s.com

EXPLORE SCOTLAND ON TWO WHEELS Scottish cycling is flourishing. With endless miles of natural cross country trails and some of the UK’s most scenic, quiet country roads it is easy to see why Scotland is a world-class cycling destination. Join both road and mountain bike devotees from across Europe for bike rides, races and live music at the TweedLove Bike Festival in the Scottish Borders (25 May–2 Jun). If you prefer the more extreme action of mountain biking against a stunning backdrop, then head to the slopes of Fort William for the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup (8–9 Jun). Glasgow’s brand new venue the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome will welcome the upcoming track cycling stars to compete in the UCI Junior Track Cycling World Championships (7–11 Aug). In autumn, the 10th anniversary of the Tour of Britain will take place. This event is free to attend, and is the UK’s largest professional cycle race attracting some of the biggest names in world cycling such as Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish (15 Sep).

Mountain Bike World Cup 8–9 Jun Mountain biking has rocketed in popularity in recent years and nowhere more so than in the Highlands. The Nevis Range has the longest single-track descent in the UK and welcomes the Mountain Bike World Cup again this summer. fortwilliamworldcup. co.uk ATP Champions of Tennis Edinburgh 20–23 Jun Watch the world’s greatest tennis players compete in

the Champions of Tennis event, which takes place in Scotland for the first time, just one week before Wimbledon. championsoftennis.com UCI Junior Track Cycling World Championships 7–11 Aug The brightest young stars of track cycling will gather this year in Glasgow. Track events can be split into two main types: Sprint events which generally last for less than two minutes, and Endurance events which can be up to 40km in length. britishcycling.org.uk/ scotland World Youth Netball Championships 22–31 Aug These championships will see the sport of netball showcase its best players at Under 21 level from 20 countries throughout the world at the Emirates Arena, Glasgow. glasgowlife.org.uk Tour of Britain 15 Sep The Tour of Britain is the UK’s biggest professional bicycle race and a centrepiece of the British sporting calendar as the country’s largest free-towatch live sporting event. The Scotland stage of the ride will start in Dumfries & Galloway and finish in the Scottish Borders. tourofbritain.com

DISCOVER MORE EVENTS AROUND SCOTLAND AT VISITSCOTLAND.COM/EVENTS

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| ADVENTURE/OUTDOOR HIGHLIGHT EVENTS HIGHLIGHT 2013EVENTS 2013 | MOBO AWARDS

MOBO AWARDS RETURN TO GLASGOW IN 2013 Glasgow is a must visit city for touring international urban artists. Jay-Z, Eminem, BeyoncĂŠ, Kanye West, Alicia Keys and John Legend are just some of the global urban community that love playing in front of a knowledgeable, enthusiastic Glasgow audience. Glasgow was the first host outside of London for the prestigious MOBO Awards in 2009, and has inspired existing Scottish songwriters, producers, singers, rappers and DJs to push the urban sound, as well as opening the ears of countless more who have yet to find the scene. The MOBOs came back to Glasgow in 2011 and will again bring together the top UK and international music stars in 2013. mobo.com

SAVE THE DATE FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TRIP TO SCOTLAND For inspiration on everything to see & do in Scotland call into a VisitScotland Information Centre. Most of them are open all year round and our friendly, knowledgeable experts can help you with accommodation, tickets for activities & events and travel & transport. To find us visit VisitScotland.com/wheretofindus PLUS! Our exciting Days Out iPhone app is available to download FREE from the iTunes app store, packed with over 2000 attractions and activities across Scotland.

In 2014, Scotland will be celebrating its Homecoming with a year-long programme bursting with events and festivals. We invite you to come experience a place where everyone feels at home. Find out more at homecomingscotland.com

For more information please visit: VisitScotland.com/daysout 19

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HIGHLAND GAMES HIGHLIGHT EVENTS 2013 GOLF | HIGHLIGHT EVENTS| 2013 Inveraray Highland Games 16 Jul It is said these Highland games stem from Mary Queen of Scots visiting her half-sister the Countess of Argyll in 1563. Today the games attract competitors from around the world and host the World Caber Championship. inveraray-games.co.uk

A WARM WELCOME AT THE HIGHLAND GAMES For a traditional Scottish experience, head to the fantastic Highland games taking place across the country. Originating from the Scottish clan system and dating back hundreds of years, Highland games are one of Scotland’s most distinct cultural expressions. Staged throughout the summer months, the games provide a unique combination of Scottish culture, sport and hospitality set amongst some of the nation’s most spectacular scenery. From May to September you’ll find a full programme of Highland games in small towns and villages, and even within the atmospheric grounds of castles such as Drumtochty and Inveraray. Marvel as kilted participants test their strength and endurance in heavy events such as caber tossing, hammer throwing and tug o’war, as well as track and field events. There are also vibrant piping and Highland dance competitions. In fact, Highland games are just as famous for their warm welcome and exceptional Scottish hospitality as for the herculean displays of strength and agility.

Aberdeen Highland Games 16 Jun A traditional programme of events including the Scottish 725kg Tug o’War Championship, heavy and light events, track and field events, dancing, pipe band and solo piping competitions. Family fun is also available. aberdeencity.gov.uk/ highlandgames

Loch Lomond Highland Games 13 Jul These games host the official SHGA Heavyweight World Championship for Ball, Hammer and Caber Weights, the Scottish 80 Metres Running Championship and the Scottish Backhold/ Cumberland Style Wrestling British Championship. llhgb.com

Inverness Highland Games 20 Jul Founded in 1822, these games form part of the Inverness Summer Festival and are one of the most spectacular gatherings in Scotland, featuring athletics, dancing and, of course, caber tossing. invernesshighlandgames. com Skye Highland Games 7 Aug Held in Portree over two days and a highlight of the Isle of Skye calendar, it attracts pipers from Scotland as well as from Australia, New Zealand, France and the USA. skye-highland-games. co.uk Argyllshire Highland Gathering 22 Aug Held in Oban, this is a traditional Highland games and a great day out for all the family, with highly competitive track and field events and also a world class solo piping competition. obangames.com Cowal Highland Gathering 29–31 Aug The Cowal Highland Gathering in Dunoon is the

world’s largest Highland games attracting over 3,500 competitors and 20,000 visitors each year. Highlights include shot putting the 34lb Cowal Stone, the Highland Dance World Championship and the salute to the chieftain. cowalgathering.com Braemar Gathering 7 Sep The Braemar Gathering is one of the most famous Highland games in Scotland. It’s a firm favourite of the Royal Family during their summer stay at Balmoral Castle and a must-see for visitors. Highlights include the massed pipe bands and sports events amid stunning scenery. braemargathering.org Pitlochry Highland Games 14 Sep This is one of the last Highland games of the season and subsequently hosts the finals for a number of competitions, including the British Tug o’War Championship, Scottish 1600m Championship and Highland dance competitions. pitlochryhighlandgames. co.uk Invercharron Highland Games 21 Sep Set in the beautiful Kyle of Sutherland, these traditional Highland games are the final games of the season. Highlights include the ‘Beating of the Targe’ during the opening ceremony, heavy events, piping and Highland dance competitions. invercharrongames.co.uk

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HIGHLIGHT EVENTS 2013 | ADVENTURE/OUTDOOR HIGHLIGHT EVENTS 2013 | GOLF Jamieson, Paul Lawrie, Richie Ramsey and Lloyd Saltman have all played. Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open Presented by EventScotland 30 Aug–1 Sep The Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open will return to Castle Stuart Golf Links for the third successive year in 2013 before moving to a brand new venue, Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, in 2014.

SCOTLAND: THE HOME OF GOLF In 2013 there will be four full European Tour events held in Scotland, headlined by The Open Championship at Muirfield (18–21 Jul). No other country in Europe will host more full Tour events. When you add a plethora of other exciting events from the ladies (including the RICOH Women’s British Open), seniors and satellite Tours then there is no doubt 2013 will confirm Scotland’s place as the perfect stage for both watching and playing golf. And, of course, all of this will precede the arrival of golf’s most enthralling team event, the Ryder Cup, when it is played at Gleneagles in 2014 in front of more than 200,000 fans and an expected TV audience of more than half a billion worldwide.

Ricoh Women’s British Open 1–4 Aug The Ricoh Women’s British Open is one of the most exciting Majors in golf. As the only women’s Major played outside the US it is the most international, boasting players from many different nations. It is also one of the four majors in women’s professional golf and one of the marquee events on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour.

Scottish Hydro Challenge, hosted by MacDonald Hotels 20–23 Jun The Scottish Hydro Challenge, one of the premier events on the European Challenge Tour, gives Scottish golfing fans the chance to get up close and personal with some of the game’s most promising up-and-coming stars. The tournament has seen such international players as Rafael Cabrera-Bello and Matteo Manassero while local favourites Scott

The Open Championship 18–21 Jul In 2012 the Open Championship took place in Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Course, for 2013 the venue is Muirfield which last hosted The Open Championship in 2002. Winners of previous Muirfield Opens include golf’s biggest names: Nick Faldo, Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, Harry Vardon and Walter Hagen. Johnnie Walker Championship 22–25 Aug Held over the PGA Centenary Course, venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup, this is one of the leading events on the PGA European Tour International Schedule of Events and will welcome some of the best golfers in the world to one of the most beautiful places in the world. The 2012 championship was won by home-grown talent Paul Lawrie. Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open 30 Aug–1 Sep The Aberdeen Asset

Management Ladies Scottish Open will return to the magnificent Archerfield Links in East Lothian. The tournament attracts some of the best female golfers on the Ladies’ European Tour and is a great showcase for ladies’ golf in Scotland. Each year, the event continues to grow in popularity and status with amateurs and pros commenting on how much they enjoy the unique event format and the atmosphere that surrounds it. Alfred Dunhill Links Championship 26–29 Sep The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is one of the world’s leading golf events. A truly international championship, it is a magnet for golfers from every corner of the world and is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the European Tour. A celebration of links golf, this championship is played over three magnificent links courses – the Old Course (St Andrews), the Championship Course (Carnoustie) and Kingsbarns (St Andrews). Scottish Senior Open 16–18 Aug The tournament is one of the longest-running on the Senior Tour schedule and last year under new sponsorship it became the SSE Scottish Senior Open. The list of former winners includes Scotland’s Ryder Cup-winning captain and the most capped player in European Tour history, Sam Torrance (2006). For more information please visit VisitScotland.com/golf 21

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JANUARY 17 JAN–3 FEB

CELTIC CONNECTIONS FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 353 8000, celticconnections.com

See panel, left. 25–27 JAN

BIG BURNS SUPPER FAMILY / HERITAGE / MULTIARTS Various venues, Dumfries and Galloway, bigburnssupper.com

See panel, opposite. 25 JAN–3 FEB

WINTER WORDS

CELTIC CONNECTIONS Twenty years of Scottish sounds With its 20th anniversary approaching in 2014, January’s Celtic Connections has built itself into one of the busiest and most important winter music events on the UK’s festival calendar, earning widespread national press and media focus and a roster of exclusive performances and collaborations every year. In 2013 the Glasgow-based, multi-venue festival boasts a mammoth 300 performances over 18 days. Programmed by artistic director Donald Shaw, a member of highly successful Scottish traditional group Capercaillie, the festival’s remit to explore the roots of Scottish music is approached in the broadest and most expansive terms. Expect to see performances from American roots and country musicians, modern Scots pop artists with a traditional sensibility and others from around the world who have experienced some form of cross-pollination with the sounds of Scotland. This year’s bill makes for exciting reading, including familiar names like Eddi Reader, Dougie MacLean, Julie Fowlis, The Mavericks, Salif Keita and Old Crow Medicine Show. Among them will be Cowboy Junkies, Martha Wainwright, Little Feat, Aimee Mann and Tanita Tikaram, while recommended younger acts include Washington Irving, Stanley Odd, This is the Kit and a double bill featuring The Pictish Trail and Rozi Plain. Special events include a 20-year celebration of Kate Rusby’s career, appearances by the former politician Tony Benn and Ethiopian multi-instrumentalism Mulatu Astatke, and the Roaming Roots Revue, a tribute to The Band’s late drummer Levon Helm with his daughter Amy, Beth Orton, Gemma Hayes and Ben Knox Miller of The Low Anthem, amongst others. (David Pollock) ■ Various venues, Glasgow, 17 Jan–3 Feb, 0141 353 8000, celticconnections.com 22

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FAMILY / LITERATURE Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry, 01796 484626, pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com

Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s flagship literary festival returns with an abundance of events for lovers of literature. Among those already confirmed are Paddy Ashdown, Trevor Royle, Max Benitez, Hamish Scott, Mick Fowler, Tom Pow, Tam Dalyell, Julie Davidson, Alistair Moffat and Sarah Fraser, while child-friendly entertainment, workshops and, of course, the book fair are also on the menu. 26–27 JAN

AVIEMORE SLED DOG RALLY OUTDOOR Loch Morlich, Aviemore, 07990 848898, siberianhuskyclub. com/aviemore

The Arden Grange & Siberian Husky Club of GB’s 30th Anniversary is the biggest event in the British sled dog racing calendar. The race features teams of two to eight dogs pulling their musher on a sled LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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and if there’s no snow, the races still go on with mushers using a three-wheeled rig that looks like a tricycle without a seat. 28 JAN–8 FEB

FIFE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Fife, ffom.org.uk

Performers at this community festival range from primary school children to adults in both vocal and instrumental classes, competitive and noncompetitive. Performances are open to anyone who wants to come along and watch.

FEBRUARY 1–3 FEB

FIFE JAZZ FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Fife, fifejazzfestival.com

Fife Jazz Festival covers all the bases: from traditional to avant-garde, from international productions to homespun community events, from the biggest names in jazz to newcomers. Uniquely, the festival takes place throughout Fife from Crossford to St Michaels, from Dunbog to Burntisland, with major concerts taking place in Dunfermline, Glenrothes, Kirkcaldy and St Andrews.

29 JAN

UP HELLY AA

1–3 FEB

HERITAGE Lerwick, Shetland, uphellyaa.org

WEE DUB FESTIVAL

Shetland shows off its Viking history with a spectacular fire festival, the highlight of which is the torchlight procession of up to 1000 colourfully dressed guisers following a Viking galley through the town before setting it alight. 31 JAN–3 FEB

FOOD ON FILM FAMILY / FILM & TV / FOOD & DRINK Kingussie, kingussiefoodonfilm.co.uk

The culinary meets the audiovisual in this interdisciplinary festival that seeks to titillate eyes and tastebuds alike with a menu of foodie films and film-worthy food, including the Scottish Premier of Papadopoulos & Son set in a Greek fish and chip shop and acompanied by Greek food and dancing.

FAMILY / MUSIC Old Town, Edinburgh, weedubfestival.co.uk

Scotland’s only festival dedicated to dub and reggae music in all its forms. Taking place across various venues in Edinburgh’s Old Town over one weekend, it offers a diverse line-up of gigs, clubs, workshops, food and more. 2013 includes Zion Train (full live show), Prince Fatty ft. MC Horseman and Mungo’s Hi-Fi ft. Kenny Knots. 1–16 FEB

EDINBURGH IRANIAN FESTIVAL MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, ediranfest.co.uk

A welcome return for this volunteer-run biannual cultural festival, which celebrates the heritage and creativity of Iran. This year’s programme features an art exhibition with the theme

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . BIG BURNS SUPPER Scotland’s national Bard Burns Night is a highlight of the Scottish events calendar: a one-night antidote to the grim darkness of January in celebration of Ayrshire poet Rabbie Burns. Dumfries and Galloway have taken it one step further, hosting a whole weekend of festivities in honour of the Bard. The Big Burns Supper is a family-friendly modern arts festival with deep roots covering traditional and contemporary music, theatre, comedy, dance, children’s shows and live art. Deacon Blue, Eddi Reader, Fiddlers Bid and Dougie MacLean are the headliners this year, and the new Festival Village at the old market on the Whitesands hosts entertainment in a 1920s-style speigeltent. Fortunately, festival-goers are not required to prove their poetry skills in order to partake of the endless supply of entertainment the festival offers. (Jen Bowden) ■ Various venues, Dumfries and Galloway, 25–27 Jan, bigburnssupper.com

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of ‘Borders’, a music concert in the style of ‘Persian opera’, comedy from Irish-Iranian comedian Patrick Monahan, an Iranian film season at the Filmhouse cinema, and a mini Iranian bazaar with nomadic tents and a teahouse. 2 FEB

KILMARNOCK EDITION FESTIVAL MUSIC The Grand Hall, Kilmarnock, 01563 554900

Ayrshire plays host to a selection of indie rockers, with a strong, mainly Scottish line-up headed up by Glasvegas and supported by interesting acts like Vukovi and Fatherson. 2 FEB–17 MAR

SCOTTISH SNOWDROP FESTIVAL GLASGOW FILM FESTIVAL Big screen bounty A relative newcomer on the film festival circuit – this is its ninth year – the festival builds on its 2012 success and adds some new and exciting strands into the mix. Kapow!@GFF, the popular strand curated by Mark Millar and focusing on all things comic book and superhero-related makes a return. A continued emphasis on fashion capitalises on Glasgow’s trendsetting status, and the festival retains its commitment to marrying music and film in unique live events. 2013 focuses on new cinema from Brazil with a series of screenings and tie-in events, gigs and performances across the city. It also brings James Cagney back to the big screen, devoting an entire retrospective to the legendary Hollywood tough. Robert Florence, of BBC Scotland’s Burnistoun, leads a strand looking at the links (and disparities) between the big-screen and video games that includes a costume gala screening (so now’s the time to start ironing that Princess Leia or Batman outfit). It also incorporates the Glasgow Short Film Festival (7–10 Feb), a four-day programme of screenings and events focusing on women and filmmaking dedicated to those working with constrained time but not talent. In addition to the child- and family-friendly aspects of the main festival programme, the preceding Glasgow Youth Film Festival (5–15 Feb) is curated entirely by 15–19 year olds and offers schools workshops in which the next generation of filmmakers, cinema-lovers and perhaps even film festival programmers can learn the ropes. (Suzanne Black) ■ Various venues, Glasgow, 14–24 Feb, 0141 332 6535, glasgowfilm.org/ festival 24

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FAMILY / OUTDOOR National Trust Properties, Scotland-wide, nts.org.uk

The snowdrops are showing up in parks, gardens and woodland all over the country, and the sixth annual Snowdrop Festival celebrates this plucky little perennial. More than 50 venues with notable snowdrop gardens are keen to show them off: check the website for details of individual venues. 3–16 FEB

MANIPULATE VISUAL THEATRE FESTIVAL THEATRE & DANCE Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh, manipulatefestival.org

Puppet Animation Scotland collates a collection of worldclass animation, puppetry and related performing arts of all styles and techniques and, through its masterclasses, also provides learning opportunities. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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STMAGNUS

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL ORKNEY ISLANDS 20 – 28 JUNE 2013

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5–15 FEB

GLASGOW YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL FAMILY / FILM & TV Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 332 6535, glasgowfilmfestival.org.uk/youth

See panel, p24. 7 FEB

MUSIC FOR YOUTH: SCOTTISH REGIONAL FESTIVAL SERIES MUSIC Easterbrook Hall, Dumfries, 020 7759 1830, mfy.org.uk/regional

The Music for Youth Regional Festival Series is the gateway to the MFY season. Regional festivals take place throughout February and March each year and 50,000 young musicians take part in around 70 festivals across the UK. 7–10 FEB

GLASGOW SHORT FILM FESTIVAL FAMILY / FILM & TV Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 332 6535, glasgowfilm.org/festival

See panel, p24. 7–21 FEB

MIDDLE EASTERN FILM FESTIVAL COMMUNITY / FILM & TV / HERITAGE Filmhouse, Edinburgh, filmhousecinema.com

A retrospective of cinema on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. Part of The Edinburgh International Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace Festival 2013, see below. 7 FEB–17 MAR

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SPIRITUALITY AND PEACE COMMUNITY / MULTI-ARTS / POLITICS Various venues, Edinburgh, mesp.org.uk

For the tenth year the Middle East Festival draws together people from a wide range of spiritual backgrounds, cultures, traditions and communities to celebrate peace and mutual understanding via spiritual, educational, artistic and cultural events. This year includes a retrospective of cinema that focuses on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. 12–20 FEB TBC

TAKEAWAY CHINA ART / FAMILY Various venues, Glasgow, ricefield.org.uk

Takeaway China 2013 is a series of events over a two-week period highlighting Chinese arts and culture in Glasgow. Coinciding with the end of the Year of the Dragon and the beginning of the Year of the Snake, both aspects of the Chinese calendar will be represented in a programme that includes exhibitions by children of the Suining area of China and Chi Zhang. 13–17 FEB

SNOWDROPS BY STARLIGHT ART / FAMILY / OUTDOOR Cambo Estate, Kingsbarns, snowdropsbystarlight.com

After being inspired by the sight of drifts of snowdrops caught in car headlights, Cambo Estate’s endless woodlands are opened up each year to reveal the magic of their many snowdrops, enhanced by a natural art installation with lighting and sound effects.

14 FEB

MUSIC FOR YOUTH: SCOTTISH REGIONAL FESTIVAL SERIES MUSIC Perth Concert Hall, Perth, 020 7759 1830, mfy.org.uk/regional

See 7 Feb. 14–17 FEB

SHETLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Shetland, shetlandjazzclub.org

The Tim Garland Lighthouse Trio headlines this year’s festival, and Tim will also be playing with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Scotland Collective. Fionna Duncan with Brian Kellock, Ronnie Rae and Tom Bancroft, and Nigel Clark are also headlining, and Trio Red, Brian Nicholson and Maggie Adamson and Alison Ramsay will be making appearances. 14–20 FEB

ABERDEENSHIRE CELEBRATES! COMMUNITY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Aberdeen, 0131 225 7355, aberdeenshirecelebrates.org.uk

A celebration across Aberdeenshire of the arts and crafts activity taking place in the area. Events are staged in arts venues, museums, libraries, community halls and beyond, hosted by drama, dance, music, visual art and craft groups. 14–24 FEB

GLASGOW FILM FESTIVAL FAMILY / FILM & TV Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 332 6535, glasgowfilm.org/ festival

See panel, p24. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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15 FEB

MUSIC FOR YOUTH: SCOTTISH REGIONAL FESTIVAL SERIES MUSIC The High School of Glasgow, Glasgow, 020 7759 1830, mfy.org.uk/regional

See 7 Feb. 16–24 FEB

WINTERWEEK COMMUNITY / FAMILY / HERITAGE Various venues, Kenmore, winterweek.co.uk

A series of events in and around Kenmore to brighten up the dreich days of February. 20–24 FEB

FORT WILLIAM MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL FILM & TV / OUTDOOR Various venues, Lochaber, mountainfestival.co.uk

Films and lectures celebrating the great outdoors and mountain culture, held in Scotland’s outdoor capital, and spread over four nights: Bike Night, Antarctic Night with Paralympic silver medalist Karen Darke and Antarctic skier Felicity Aston, Climbing Night and Best of Banff Night. A range of workshops allow spectators to get involved. 21–28 FEB

PAPAY GYRO NIGHTS HERITAGE / MULTI-ARTS Papa Westray, Orkney, 01857 644340, papaygyronights. papawestray.org

The third outing for a unique festival of contemporary visual and performance art taking place in one of the UK’s most remote environments during the depths of winter. The programme encompasses experimental film and video art, installation,

STANZA: SCOTLAND’S INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL Rhyme and reason Focusing on the concentrated literary form of verse, StAnza has made a name for itself as a site of international literary exchange as well as being a champion of the poetic form. Each year the programming is inspired by two strands. This year, the first is Designs on Poetry, which leads to a consideration of how poems are formed, and also relationships between other aspects of design and poetry. The second, Legacy & Place, ties in with the 600th anniversary celebrations at the University of St Andrews and the Year of Natural Scotland. It looks at both the impact on poetry of great past writers and men and women of the arts and sciences, and also how poetry addresses a sense of place and the importance of natural and built environment. Robin Robertson, Scotland’s own Makar Liz Lochhead, the delightful John Hegley, Mark Doty, Paula Meehan, the festival’s poet-in-residence Erín Moure, Ken Babstock and Welsh National Poet Gillian Clarke are among the names confirmed for 2013, and they will be reading, performing, debating and engaging in a series of poetry-related events. Thinking outside the chapbook, the programme strays into performance with Jacobean music from the Fires of Love quartet, Martin Dimery’s Shakespeare, Rattle & Roll and a rehearsed reading of Sir Walter Scott’s poem Marmion. 2013 also marks the bicentenary of the birth of David Livingstone, and StAnza celebrates with a collaboration with the Badelisha Poetry X-change, bringing together poets from Scotland and Africa. (Suzanne Black) ■ Various venues, St Andrews, 6–10 Mar, 01334 475000, stanzapoetry.org 27

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performance, visual arts and architecture with the aim of mediating between new media and ideas, and traditions and ritual. 23 FEB–6 MAR

INVERNESS MUSIC FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Eden Court Theatre, Inverness, 01463 716616, invernessmusicfestival.org

Run by Inverness Festival Association, this music festival is a competitive event that allows people of all ages and abilities to show off their skills. The main discipline groups are vocal, instrumental, speech, Gaelic and Scottish with over 75 awards to be won. Competitions are open to the public.

GLASGOW INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL Knock, knock... While Edinburgh is known for its cultural take-over of August, Glasgow spreads out its festivals over the entire year and March welcomes spring with a dose of laughter. First held in 2003, after an idea by the organisers of The Stand Comedy Club, the comedy festival has grown into a regular and much-loved event. This year it involves 390 shows taking place in 46 venues across 18 days with big household names rubbing up alongside rising talent, covering traditional and cuttingedge comedy by home-grown and international stars. 2013 marks the 10th anniversary of the festival and heading the bill are some very famous and very funny faces familiar from the television: Jimmy Carr, Harry Hill, Paul Merton, Dorothy Paul, Sean Lock, Al Murray, Marcus Brigstocke, David O’Doherty, Chris Addison and Fred MacAulay. The Scottish contingent is represented by controversial magician Jerry Sadowitz, young Fifer Daniel Sloss, Raymond Mearns, Susan Calman, Gary Little and emerging talent like Davey Connor, Matthew Winning, Julia Sutherland and Sarah Cassidy. The America Stands Up showcase brings together some of the best acts from North America. Other notable performers include Sanderson Jones whose unique ‘digital comedy’ includes Venn diagrams, social media and Chat Roulette, Billy Kirkwood’s Show Me Your Tattoo which takes place in a tattoo parlour, Julia Sutherland’s debut show about her transformative weight loss, and the Lunchtime Comedy Club in the Corinthian, which serves up tasty appetisers from some of the festival’s best comedians. This year also offers stand-up comedy for kids and an afternoon of comedy for grown-ups in a baby-friendly environment. (Suzanne Black) ■ Various venues, Glasgow, 14–31 Mar, 0141 552 2070, glasgowcomedyfestival.com 28

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MARCH 1 MAR

MUSIC FOR YOUTH: SCOTTISH REGIONAL FESTIVAL SERIES MUSIC Broughton High School, Edinburgh, 020 7759 1830, mfy.org.uk/regional

See 7 Feb. 1–3 MAR

FAURÉ WEEKEND MUSIC Perth Concert Hall, Perth, horsecross.co.uk

A weekend celebrating Gabriel Fauré’s immense contribution to classical music, led by internationally renowned pianist and scholar Roy Howat and performed by an impressive lineup comprising the Minguet and Navarra String Quartets, singers Anna Grevelius and Andrew Kennedy, and the National Youth Choir of Scotland. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Fèis Eadar -Nàiseanta Bàrdachd na h-Alba

St Andrews

Mark Doty

Paula Meehan Robin Robertson Erín Moure

John Hegley Zoë Skoulding

6–10 March

Gillian Clarke

Ken Babstock Liz Lochhead George Szirtes

Luke Wright Andrew Greig

more than 90 events more than 70 poets

poetry · performance · films · installations music · workshops · talks · exhibitions www.stanzapoetry.org

For quality visual art and craft look no further than Spring Fling 2013 in Dumfries and Galloway. With over 90 studios open to the public and an array of additional activities over the late May bank holiday weekend the 11th Spring Fling promises to be bigger and better than ever. For more information please visit www.spring-ﬂing.co.uk / Download the app / Follow us on twitter @spring_ﬂing /

brochure@stanzapoetry.org

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2–4 MAR

TORRIDON WINTER WALKING FESTIVAL OUTDOOR Torridon Mountains, Kinlochewe, 01445 791242, thetorridon.com

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE FESTIVAL It’s science, Jim... If cocktail-tasting and bubble-blowing had featured in our high-school science curriculum, it’s a fair bet that more of us would have ended up as chemists and biologists. EISF allows the neophytes and lapsed physicists among us to channel our inner boffins by debating, discerning patterns in nature and dissecting eyeballs (if we’re so inclined) as part of a programme that’s equal parts fun and profound, entertaining and enlightening. EISF also offers a Children and Family Programme that takes place across five floors of the City Art Centre. It allows curious kids (and overgrown weans) to unravel a mummy, operate an endoscope, and programme and operate their very own robot. The festival celebrates its 25th birthday in 2013, with a special series of events theorising as to what the next quarter-century holds. (Nicola Meighan) ■ Various venues, Edinburgh, 23 Mar–7 Apr, sciencefestival. co.uk

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The second annual winter festival in the surrounds of the far northwestern village of Torridon, home to some of Scotland’s most rugged and dramatic scenery. Offering a safe, guided experience of winter walking, events on offer range from low level walks to tough ice climbs and even an overnight stay in a snow hole (they promise it’s very warm), or an essential winter skills course. Rest tired limbs in the evenings with live music and a quiz in the Torridon Inn. 6–10 MAR

STANZA: SCOTLAND’S INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, St Andrews, 01334 475000, stanzapoetry.org

See panel, p27. 6–17 MAR

GLASGOW’S ST PATRICK’S FESTIVAL FAMILY / HERITAGE / MUSIC Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 424 0465, glasgowstpatricksfestival.co.uk

A ten-day programme of events taking in Irish music and history with entertainment from Dave Munnelly and Mick Connelly, Damien Mullane and Donogh Hennessy, The BibleCode Sundays and Yuptae, and a free family day on 16 Mar. 7–9 MAR

ULLAPOOL DANCE FESTIVAL FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Ullapool, 01854

612575, ullapooldancefestival.org A dance festival with classes for all ages and abilities, performances from Alan Greig Dance Theatre plus a ceilidh and Latin dance party. 9 MAR

MUSIC FOR YOUTH: SCOTTISH REGIONAL FESTIVAL SERIES MUSIC Culloden Academy, Inverness, 020 7759 1830, mfy.org.uk/regional

See 7 Feb. 11–16 MAR

GALLOWAY MUSIC FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Galloway, 01671 402570, gallowaymusicfestival.org.uk

Competitive music festival for amateur musicians of all ages. The syllabus covers a wide range of categories including piano, brass, woodwind, recorder, strings, ensemble, vocal, choral, jazz, recital, composition, speech and Scottish traditional, with members of the public welcome to attend all competitions and a festival concert on the final day. 13–17 MAR

EDINBURGH’S FESTIVAL OF IRELAND FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, 07855 285207, edinburghsfestivalofireland.org

A little bit of Ireland descends upon Edinburgh in the runup to St Patrick’s Day. Visit some of the dance events for solo step and group routines, hear a bit of storytelling about the Little People, enjoy some bacon’n’cabbage and learn LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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about historical Irish events.

15–17 MAR TBC

13–17 MAR

ABERDEEN JAZZ FESTIVAL

HIPPODROME FESTIVAL OF SILENT CINEMA FAMILY / FILM & TV / HERITAGE Various venues, Bo’ness, 01324 506850, falkirkcommunitytrust. org/silentcinemafest

Scotland’s only silent film festival expands to five days of events, screenings, new commissions and workshops, featuring live music and storytelling by national and international musicians and performers. The programme is a mix of rare, recently re-discovered and classic silent films with live accompaniment, and also revives the tradition of the Film Explainer (part narrator/part actor).

MUSIC Various venues, Aberdeen, 08451 110302, aberdeenjazzfestival.com

A host of musicians and performers descends on the Granite City for a few days of jazz and blues, with everything from workshops and jamming sessions, to chilled out gigs on the green and late night sessions. 15–24 MAR

FIFE SCIENCE FESTIVAL FAMILY / SCIENCE Various venues, Fife, 01382 228800, fifesciencefestival.org.uk

The over 50s take the spotlight for this informal festival of free recitals, a craft fair, exhibitions, film screenings and author visits.

Coinciding with National Science and Engineering Week, the festival takes a look at the past and the future of science in Fife, from notable experts and advances developed in the area, to how science and technology is working to preserve Fife’s natural and cultural heritage. Events include family fun days, guided walks, lectures and workshops.

14–31 MAR

19–22 MAR

GLASGOW INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL

LORN DRAMA FESTIVAL

14–30 MAR

YOUNG AT HEART FESTIVAL COMMUNITY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, South Lanarkshire, 01698 452299, southlanarkshire.gov.uk

COMEDY / FAMILY Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 552 2070, glasgowcomedyfestival.com

See panel, p28.

Details correct at time of going to press but are subject to change or cancellation. Please check with festival organiser before travelling. Updated information will also be available at list.co.uk

FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE Corran Halls, Oban, 01631 567333, argyllcommunities.org/ lorndramafestival

A festival of one-act plays performed by drama groups from all over Argyll. The 2012 programme included awardwinning productions of Some Mother’s Son, Nick Warburton’s The Last Bread Pudding and Colin Cross’ The Canterbury Road Tales. To have your drama group involved, contact the organisers via the website.

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . BEHAVIOUR Envelope-pushing live arts With its programme of clubs and live music nights, the Arches – based in the atmospheric brick vaults under Glasgow’s Central Station – is possibly the leading player in developing the city’s emerging and experimental theatre arts scene. Behaviour is one significant reason for this: an eight-week exploration of ‘live arts’, which last year expanded to many off-site venues, furthering the voice of some of Glasgow’s finest new theatremakers. Previous years have built an excellent reputation for finding artists and shows with strong, unique voices, with highlights this year including the Platform 18 award-winning shows Wuthering Heights by Peter McMaster and Poke by Amanda Monfrooe, and the Arches Brick Award winners The Shit/La Merda and Torycore. Rob Drummond, Kieran Hurley, Gary McNair, Nic Green and Claire Cunningham will also be debuting new work as part of the National Theatre of Scotland and The Arches’ Auteurs Creative Development Programme. (David Pollock) ■ Various venues, Glasgow, 1 Apr–12 May TBC, thearches. co.uk

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22–24 MAR

BOOTLEG FILM FESTIVAL

DANNY WILLIAMS

FILM & TV The Banshee Labyrinth, Edinburgh, bootlegfilmfestival.com

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . BELTANE FIRE FESTIVAL Here come the drums One of the most unusual events in Scotland’s cultural calendar and also one with the oldest roots, Beltane Fire Society’s annual spectacle is organised to celebrate the beginning of summer and draws on the traditions of the ancient Celtic festival of Beltane. Running since 1988, the current incarnation of the festival brings arts to the fore as it re-enacts the story of the death of winter and the birth of summer using a variety of media. Dancing, acrobatics, puppetry and fire are accompanied by a wealth of drummers who beat out a primal rhythm that resounds on Calton Hill. Also look out for their spectacular Samhuinn Fire Festival (31 Oct), during which they hark back to the pagan origins of Hallowe’en with a procession through the streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town and performances of acrobatics, fireworks and drumming to mark the passing of summer. (Suzanne Black) ■ Calton Hill, Edinburgh, 30 Apr, beltane.org

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A roving film festival with a DIY ethos that cares more about what’s on the screen than who’s on the red carpet. In fact there’s no red carpet. It moves location each year and 2013 is Edinburgh’s turn to showcase the best underground films by adventurous directors. 22–24 MAR

NIEL GOW ANNUAL SCOTTISH FIDDLE FESTIVAL

working with local authorities, organisations and venues throughout Scotland. 27–28 MAR TBC

CREATIVE LOOP STUDENT MEDIA FESTIVAL FILM & TV CCA, Glasgow, creativeloop.org

The festival is a collection of lectures, workshops and masterclasses aimed at the creative students of Scotland. Radio, television and digital media are all covered in depth as industry experts come from across the country to inspire, teach and network with the new generation of content providers.

MUSIC Various venues, Dunkeld & Birnam, niel-gow.co.uk

29–31 MAR

Established in 2004 to celebrate the life of Perthshire fiddle legend Niel Gow, this festival is held in his home village each year. Now a breeding ground for traditional music talent, the festival runs a selection of workshops, performances and events.

MUSIC Caithness Indoor Riding School, Caithness, 01847 892624, nncmc.co.uk

23 MAR–7 APR

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE FESTIVAL FAMILY / SCIENCE Various venues, Edinburgh, sciencefestival.co.uk

See panel, p30.

NORTHERN NASHVILLE CAITHNESS COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL

The tenth anniversary of this popular country music festival brings together stars from the USA, Europe, Ireland and Scotland. The 2013 line-up includes Connie Smith, who has recently been inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame in Nashville, Will Banister, Bobby Flores, Kimberly Murray, Bob Manning, Rance Norton, Evi Tausen (Faroe Isles) and Music Road Pilots (Holland).

23 MAR–13 APR

PUPPET ANIMATION FESTIVAL

29 MAR–7 APR

FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE Scotland-wide, 0131 560 1298, puppetanimationfestival.org

FAMILY / HERITAGE Various venues, Angus, 01307 473262, tartandayscotland.com

The UK’s largest and longest established annual performing arts event for children pulls some strings to present a feast of puppet-based entertainment,

A celebration of Scotland marking the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath symbolising Scottish Independence in 1320 at Arbroath Abbey. Tartan Day itself is now

TARTAN DAY ANGUS

LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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a national celebration and takes place on 6 Apr but has expanded into a week-long festival of events throughout the country. 29 MAR–7 APR

TARTAN DAY EAST RENFREWSHIRE FAMILY / HERITAGE Various venues, East Renfrewshire, eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk

See above. 29 MAR–14 APR

crafts from around the world to accompany the tippling. 5–7 APR

COUNTERFLOWS

12–20 APR

MUSIC Various venues, Glasgow, 07939 607934, counterflows.com

AYE WRITE! GLASGOW’S BOOK FESTIVAL

Counterflows marries the local to the international with artists from around the world collaborating with homegrown talent in spaces across Glasgow and London’s Cafe Oto, and working within all genres of music.

WILD SPRING FAMILY / OUTDOOR Various venues, Dumfries and Galloway, wildlifefestival.org.uk

More than 80 wildlife-themed events and activities held across south-west Scotland to coincide with the Year of Natural Scotland. Events are led by local experts from conservation organisations and include hands-on family activities as well as opportunities to see Scotland’s spectacular animals and birds. For 2013 the festival has expanded to include Ayrshire.

APRIL

5–10 APR

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL HARP FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Merchiston Castle School, Edinburgh, harpfestival.co.uk

Held on the beautiful grounds of Merchiston Castle School, EIHF annually welcomes a healthy mix of world-class harpists and up-andcoming local talents playing a range of musical styles from folk to jazz for concerts, courses, workshops, the UK’s largest harpmakers’ exhibition and late night music sessions.

1 APR–12 MAY TBC

6–14 APR

BEHAVIOUR

ON THE ROCKS

THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Glasgow, thearches.co.uk

FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, St Andrews, ontherocksfestival.com

See panel, p31.

The fifth year for this student-run arts festival promises more shows, concerts and exhibitions for all the family.

5–6 APR

INVERNESS WHISKY FESTIVAL

Clarke, Clamjamfry Ceilidh Band, Farg Folk, Karine Polwart, Les Barker, Rallion and Real Time.

FOOD & DRINK / HERITAGE / MUSIC Various venues, Inverness, 01463 772800, invernesswhiskyfestival.co.uk

12–14 APR

A diverse and lively festival with a programme of live music, masterclasses, food, fashion and

A small and friendly stalwart of the folk festival calendar, this year’s line-up includes Anthony John

GLENFARG FOLK FEAST MUSIC Glenfarg Hotel, Glenfarg, 01577 830611, glenfargfolkclub.com

FAMILY / LITERATURE Mitchell Library, Glasgow, ayewrite.com

Glasgow’s Book Festival is back for its eighth outing in 2013. Located in the iconic Mitchell Library it remains committed to celebrating Scottish and international writers and writing. This year, for the first time, it also offers a dedicated schools programme (11–15 Mar). 12–25 APR TBC

ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL SCOTLAND FILM & TV Scotland-wide, italianfilmfestival.org.uk

Some of the best Italian films from the past year as well as re-discovered and restored gems from the past. 14–19 APR

WALK ISLAY OUTDOOR Various venues, Isle of Islay, 01496 850382, walkislay.co.uk

See the best of Scottish island landscapes with this walking festival, which last year covered five islands: Islay, Texa, Colonsay, Oronsay and Jura.

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS In addition to these festivals, there are many other major events taking place in April and May 2013 including: • FINA Diving World Series • IRB sevens For more details of these events see pages 18–21

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19–20 APR TBC

25–28 APR

SCOTTISH CHEESE FESTIVAL

DEAD BY DAWN, SCOTLAND’S INTERNATIONAL HORROR FILM FESTIVAL

FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Ayrshire, tasteayrshire.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL

A calendar of cheese events across Ayrshire, including cheese and wine tastings, cheese rolling and other workshops.

Bottoms up

19–21 APR

Whisky enjoys an immovable place in the landscape of Scottish culture, and whether you are a committed taster or uninitiated in the ways of distilling, this festival aims to please all palates. With tours and tastings at many of the area’s distilleries (including exclusive access to some usually closed to the public), there’s no excuse for not finding a new favourite tipple (or a dozen). While the main focus of this festival is Scotland’s aqua vitae, there’s a wideranging programme of events going on outside of the cask. There’s the Whisky and Wildlife Walk, or the Wild About Scotland, Wild About Whisky event at the Scottish Dolphin Centre as distilleries, shops, restaurants, pubs and villages throughout Speyside lay on an enormous array of events. You can try wood carving, clay pigeon shooting, wildlife walks and smuggling talks, tours, railway journeys, family fun days and exhibitions as well as enjoying your dram. (Suzanne Black) ■ Various venues, Speyside, 2–6 May, spiritofspeyside.com

MULTI-ARTS / POLITICS Tramway, Glasgow, 0131 556 0878, arika.org.uk

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ARIKA13 EPISODE 1

The first in 2013’s series of experimental film events from Arika (who were behind the Instal and Kill Your Timid Notion festivals). Each instalment is designed to explore a particular theme through screenings, performances and debates. 19–22 APR

ORKNEY JAZZ FESTIVAL MUSIC The Stromness Hotel, Orkney, 01856 850298, stromnesshotel.com

A weekend of jazz with players from around the UK and a sprinkling of local talent to ensure a true Orcadian flavour. 24 APR–6 MAY

TRADFEST FAMILY / HERITAGE / MULTIARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, scottishstorytellingcentre. co.uk/tradfest

A new festival inspired by the traditional arts of Scotland. Expect music, song, story, dance and craft to coincide with the seasonal rites of Beltane and Mayday, given a contemporary spin.

FILM & TV Filmhouse, Edinburgh, 0131 228 2688, deadbydawn.co.uk

Celebrating 20 years of cinematic scares, the Filmhouse’s horror fest ups the gore ante with a selection of blood-curdling genre premieres, classic features, short films and special guests. For a concentrated dose of evil, the Spawn of Dawn mini-fest runs throughout the Saturday night. 26–28 APR

NORTHERN STREAMS MUSIC / THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Edinburgh, 07951 918366, northernstreams.org

A celebration of Nordic and British traditional music, song and dance bringing top and emerging artists from Scandinavia, Scotland and beyond to Edinburgh on an annual basis. 2013 welcomes Irmelin, Eva Rune, Karin Ericsson Back & Maria Misgeld, and Wendy Carle Taylor among others. 27–28 APR

COLONSAY BOOK FESTIVAL LITERATURE Isle of Colonsay, Argyll and Bute, colonsaybookfestival.org.uk

This beautiful inner Hebridean isle plays host to its second ever literary festival, after 2012’s inaugural event proved such a success. Confirmed names heading to the friendly island this time around include Ian Rankin, Candia McWilliam, John Burnside, Sara Sheridan, LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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G L A S G OW I N T E R N AT I O N A L P I P I N G F E S T I VA L

YEAR 20 ) 13 ANNIVERSARY

11th – 17th AUGUST AU UGUST 2013 2013 Go to www.pipinglive.co.uk for all the latest news and sign up for email updates!

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Maggie Fergusson and Angus Peter Campbell, with festivities continuing apace until the Monday ferry leaves for the mainland.

Knockengorroch World Ceilidh

27–28 APR

KNOYDART FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS / OUTDOOR Knoydart Village Hall, Knoydart, knoydartfestival.com

Previously focusing on music, this stunning location welcomes musicians from all over Scotland, both big names and new bands, and complements the concerts with a series of events including food, sports, family fun, films, crafting and beach bonfires. 29 APR–19 MAY

COLONSAY FESTIVAL OF SPRING FOOD & DRINK / HERITAGE / OUTDOOR Various venues, Isle of Colonsay, 07850 230000, colonsayevents.co.uk

This tiny island comes alive with a series of events that showcase its natural beauty: workshops and tours, whisky tasting and cake baking, music, exhibitions and film screenings. 30 APR

BELTANE FIRE FESTIVAL HERITAGE / OUTDOOR / THEATRE & DANCE Calton Hill, Edinburgh, beltane.org

See panel, p32. TBC APR 2014

GLASGOW INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF VISUAL ART ART Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 36

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276 8384, glasgowinternational.org Biannual festival of contemporary art commissioned from artists around the globe and including exhibitions in traditional gallery spaces, plus unique site-specific installations and live performance art. There is no festival this year but it will return in 2014.

MAY 1–18 MAY

MAYFESTO THEATRE & DANCE Tron Theatre, Glasgow, tron.co.uk

Mayfesto celebrates theatre with an edge, theatre that focuses on what’s going on in the world and that responds to recent events. 2–5 MAY TBC

DUNDEAD HORROR FILM FESTIVAL FILM & TV Dundee Contemporary Arts, Dundee, 01382 909900, dca.org.uk

For the third year running Dundee indulges its more bloodthirsty side with a bank holiday weekend of cinematic thrills and scares.

With a programme of sneak previews and terrifying classics, the event has an inclusive feel, welcoming suggestions via Twitter and Facebook. 2–5 MAY

HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS MUSIC AND DANCE FESTIVAL MUSIC / THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Oban, obanfestival.org

An Oban-based festival showcasing young talent in over 125 competition classes in music and dance disciplines and prestigious national competitions. 2–5 MAY

SHETLAND FOLK FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Shetland, 01595 694757, shetlandfolkfestival.com

This internationally renowned

Details correct at time of going to press but are subject to change or cancellation. Please check with festival organiser before travelling. Updated information will also be available at list.co.uk

LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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festival – the most northerly folk festival in the UK – continues to host eclectic line-ups of folk, blues, jazz and swing. It’s famous for showcasing Shetland musicianship, especially the unique fiddle tradition.

A well-established jazz festival with over 40 concerts featuring over 20 bands and artists scheduled for 2013, covering New Orleans to mainstream and modern jazz. Highlights include the family jazz picnic.

2–6 MAY

3–6 MAY

SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL

LOCH SHIEL SPRING FESTIVAL

FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Speyside, 07789 671635, spiritofspeyside. com

MUSIC Various venues, Loch Shiel, 01397 722334, lochshielfestival.com

See panel, p34.

A festival of Western classical music set amid the stunning scenery of Loch Shiel. From off-beat locations to local traditions, national celebrations to innovative performances, this festival celebrates anything and everything to do with chamber music.

3–5 MAY

GIRVAN TRADITIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Girvan, girvanfolkfestival.co.uk

A weekend community folk festival run by Girvan Folk Club featuring a range of open sessions, concerts, workshops and children’s events. 3–6 MAY

FÈIS ROIS INBHICH THE ADULT FÈIS MUSIC Various venues, Ullapool, 01349 862600, feisrois.org

A three-day weekend of topflight tuition in traditional music, song, dance, Gaelic language and culture from a line-up of tutors drawn from Scotland’s finest traditional musicians. The draw for most, though, will be the surrounding fringe programme of concerts, talks, recitals and ceilidhs. 3–6 MAY

ISLE OF BUTE JAZZ FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Argyll and Bute, 01700 503640, butejazz.com

3–11 MAY

SCOTTISH SIX DAYS TRIAL OUTDOOR Various venues, Fort William, ssdt.org

Established in 1909 the Scottish Six Day Trial entices riders from across the globe to race their motorcycles through the Scottish landscape. 3–12 MAY

HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE CYCLING FESTIVAL FAMILY / OUTDOOR Perthshire, highlandperthshire cyclingfestival.co.uk

A week-long celebration of cycling with a packed programme of guided mountain bike and road rides, evening rides, school events, the BIG Day (a family fun cycle day in Aberfeldy) and evening entertainment culminating in the

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . BANK OF SCOTLAND IMAGINATE FESTIVAL The kids are alright Some festivals have zones for children; Imaginate has a whole programme of international performing arts especially for them. Unlike other festivals, it doesn’t limit itself to one hurrah a year but supports home-grown theatre companies year-round. The spring festival is for children and young people from four months up to 16 years, so there’s a diverse range of acts: 2013’s programme includes Visible Fictions’ swashbuckling The Mark of Zorro and 2012 favourites Shona Reppe Puppets’ The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean. Every year there’s a conscious international flavour to the line-up, this year from Robot Planet’s The Intergalactic Nemesis, Book One: Target Earth, a one-of-a-kind American live-action graphic novel theatrical experience, to the Maas Theater en Dans’ Wanted:Rabbit, about a rabbit on the run. (Hannah Ewan) ■ Various venues, Edinburgh, 6–13 May, imaginate.org.uk

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Etape Caledonia, an 81-mile bike race round Highland Perthshire.

10–12 MAY

4 MAY

MUSIC Border Union Showground, Kelso, broncosfestival.co.uk

BREW AT THE BOG FOOD & DRINK / MUSIC Bogbain Adventure & Heritage Farm, Inverness, 01463 772800, brewatthebog.com

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . ULLAPOOL BOOK FESTIVAL A tasty literary treat Stretching along the shores of Loch Broom, Ullapool is intimate, friendly and packed with bibliophiles. Last year John Burnside, Alan Spence and Rodge Glass were among the literary rewards for those making the trip northwards, and there is always a well-represented Gaelic contingent. This year’s programme offers Jenni Fagan, Kathleen Jamie, Ewan Morrison, Ian Rankin, James Robertson and Raja Shehadeh, among others. Throughout the weekend there is a linear approach to the schedule, meaning visitors can atttend any of the events without the times clashing. To make things even more tempting, Sunday morning storytelling will coax you in with the promise of breakfast rolls, while locally-smoked salmon and a tipple accompanies evening sessions, proving this wee town knows how to do a book fest for all tastes. (Kirstyn Smith) ■ Various venues, Ullapool, 10–12 May, 07754 835935, ullapoolbookfestival.co.uk

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KELSO COUNTRY AND WESTERN FESTIVAL

A day of great music and great beer with BrewDog, the coolest craft beer label on the block, and Bogbain Farm, which was voted Scotland’s Best Unusual Venue at the Scottish Event Awards. The line-up is hand-picked from Britain’s flourishing indie scene.

A Western-themed affair, complete with line dancing tuition, a fast-draw competition, a ladies’ afternoon tea (Western attire compulsary) and live music from C`est La Vie, Henry Smith & Country Dreams, Picasso Bros, Roy Orbison Tribute, Little Rock, Blue Horizon, Natalie Diamond & Tony Dallas, Whiteline Fever and more.

4–5 MAY

10–12 MAY

BON SCOTT FEST

ULLAPOOL BOOK FESTIVAL

MUSIC Kirriemuir Town Hall, Angus, dd8music.com

Fans from all over the world descend on the sleepy Angus town of Kirriemuir for a celebration of its most rock’n’roll son, AC/DC front man Bon Scott. Alongside the line-up of original and tribute acts, the festival organisers plan to unveil a surprise on the Saturday. 6–13 MAY

BANK OF SCOTLAND IMAGINATE FESTIVAL

LITERATURE Various venues, Ullapool, 07754 835935, ullapoolbookfestival.co.uk

See panel, left. 10–12 MAY

UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN MAY FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS University of Aberdeen, abdn.ac.uk/mayfestival

10–12 MAY

A vibrant programme of events to promote culture, arts, music, film, science and Gaelic with events for all ages and backgrounds, including lectures, excursions, tours, exhibitions, workshops, debates, concerts and film screenings.

FIFE TRADITIONAL SINGING FESTIVAL

10–16 MAY

FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Edinburgh, imaginate.org.uk

See panel, p37.

HERITAGE / MUSIC Fife Animal Park, Cupar, springthyme.co.uk/fifesing

A celebration of traditional singing for singers and enthusiasts. The weekend includes concerts, singarounds, sessions, workshops and talks.

NEWTON STEWART WALKING FESTIVAL OUTDOOR Various venues, Newton Stewart, 01671 404500, newtonstewartwalkfest.co.uk

A week of guided walks exploring the wild hills, rugged coastline LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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and rolling countryside of Galloway in south-west Scotland. Walks are guided by members of Galloway Mountain Rescue Team or other local guides and some have specific themes, such as wildlife, coastline, geology or history. 11 MAY

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . BOSWELL BOOK FESTIVAL When a man is tired of book festivals... The world’s only biography festival celebrates the diarist, writer and world’s greatest biographer, James Boswell, with talks, performances and workshops by writers, actors and artists. Auchinleck House was the home of Boswell, whose biography of Samuel Johnson made him a household name, and it is the setting for this annual festival. 2013 marks the 250th anniversary of Johnson and Boswell’s meeting on 16 May 1763 and a bumper programme of festivities with Richard Holloway, Janice Galloway, Timothy West and John Byrne joining in the fun. The popular opening night’s play makes a return, as does Dr Gordon Turnbull’s muchanticipated performance and a series of house tours (you have to get in quick as they sell out fast). New for this year is the ‘BookandBedFest’, which allows visitors to extend their visit overnight with camping and book karaoke, and should give them something interesting to write about in their own diaries. (Suzanne Black) ■ Auchinleck, 17–19 May, boswellbookfestival.co.uk

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BANCHORY FESTIVAL OF SCOTTISH MUSIC FAMILY / MUSIC Town Hall, Banchory, banchory festival.banchoryfiddlers.co.uk

A day of fiddle, accordion and piano competitions with a concert in the evening to celebrate the winning musicians. For those who want yet more entertainment, the concert is followed by a ceilidh.

Stirling County Rugby Club, Stirling, scribblerspicnic.co.uk A music festival for all ages aimed at family entertainment and raising money for cancer charities. 12–17 MAY

AVIEMORE WALKING FESTIVAL OUTDOOR Various venues, Aviemore, aviemorewalking.talktalk.net

The festival offers a variety of guided walks from gentle strolls through forests and along loch shores to challenging high-level mountain walks in the breathtaking Cairngorm Mountains. 13–31 MAY TBC

BOOKED! 11 MAY

SPIRIT OF STIRLING WHISKY FESTIVAL FOOD & DRINK Albert Halls, Stirling, 07712 765615, spiritofstirling.com

FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, West Dunbartonshire, 01389 608978, bookedfestival.info

The festival returns for a second year with even more whiskies on offer and a dedicated food court area.

A free, local literature festival run by West Dunbartonshire Libraries that nevertheless manages to book some big name authors for its programme of talks, signings and more unusual events.

11–19 MAY

15–18 MAY

VOLUNTARY ARTS WEEK

LOCH LOMOND QUILT SHOW

COMMUNITY / MULTI-ARTS Scotland-wide, 0131 225 7355, voluntaryartsweek.org

ART Loch Lomond, lochlomondquiltshow.com

A UK-wide celebration of the arts and crafts activities being carried out by amateur groups, who take part by opening their doors for taster sessions, showing off their wares in special shows and taking their crafts into public places.

A show of traditional and contemporary quilt work. 2013 includes work by Ferret, Gillian Cooper and the Contemporary Quilt Group as well as workshops and masterclasses.

12 MAY

SCRIBBLERS PICNIC FAMILY / MUSIC

16–19 MAY

SOUTHSIDE FILM FESTIVAL FILM & TV / FAMILY Southside, Glasgow, LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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southsidefilmfestival.net A super-local festival that brings an eclectic programme of films and workshops to ‘pop up’ cinemas in various Southside venues (cafés, pubs, clubs, schools, libraries, parks, even a boat shed). Film choices are often site-specific or engage audiences by producing an event around the film.

17–19 MAY

and guided sea kayaking.

IRVINE VALLEY WALKING FESTIVAL

18–19 MAY

OUTDOOR Various venues, Irvine, 01560 322966, east-ayrshire.gov.uk/ivrp

The eleventh annual walking festival takes in some of the finer spots around the area. 17–19 MAY

16–26 MAY

STRICHEN

PERTH FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

FAMILY / HERITAGE / MULTIARTS The Ritchie Hall, Strichen, buchanheritagesociety.co.uk

MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Perth, perthfestival.co.uk

A diverse festival offering music, comedy, theatre, dance and visual arts. 2013 welcomes Van Morrison, Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, Sir James Galway, English Chamber Orchestra, The Sixteen, Moscow State Symphony Orchestra, English Touring Opera (Cosi fan tutte), The Importance of Being Earnest and much more. 17–18 MAY

HELENSBURGH & LOMOND REAL ALE FESTIVAL FOOD & DRINK / MUSIC Helensburgh Sailing Club, Helensburgh, helensburghalefestival.co.uk

A charity event run by the local Round Table, 2013 offers over 40 real ales from 8 Scottish breweries and musical accompaniment in the form of unplugged sets. 17–19 MAY

BOSWELL BOOK FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Auchinleck, boswellbookfestival.co.uk

See panel, opposite.

This friendly festival has been running since 1984 and seeks to keep traditional art forms alive. Located in North East Scotland, it offers a programme of music, song, verse, drama and dance as well as competitions and ceilidhs. 17–20 MAY

ARRAN MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL OUTDOOR Various venues, Isle of Arran, 01770 302244, arranmountainfestival.co.uk

A huge variety of guided walks and scrambles throughout Arran’s stunning hills and mountains: from wildlife-watching walks along the island’s coastline to airy scrambles on towering granite ridges. 17–25 MAY

WILD LOCHABER FESTIVAL

LOCH FYNE FOOD FAIR FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK / MUSIC Loch Fyne Oysters, Cairndow, 01499 600264, lochfyne.com/events

In operation since 1990, the Loch Fyne Food Fair celebrates the best local produce Scotland has to offer. Alongside Loch Fyne Oysters’ own seafood stands, The event will also feature live music throughout both days, a craft tent and a dedicated children’s area hosting a whole range of exciting activities. 18–24 MAY

BALLATER WALKING FESTIVAL OUTDOOR Various venues, Ballater, 01339 755467, walkballater.com

Run continuously since 1998 this festival caters to all abilities of walkers. Making the most of the magnificent views afforded by the Cairngorms National Park and Royal Deeside, it offers Easy, Medium and Strenuous walks each day, which are led by knowledgeable local residents, full-time rangers and professional mountain guides. For those still with a spring in their step at the end of the day, a series of evening events and a closing ceilidh will burn off any remaining energy.

FAMILY / OUTDOOR Various venues, Lochaber, 01397 705765, wildlochaber.org

22–26 MAY

A week of activities celebrating the wealth of wildlife and spectacular scenery in Lochaber including guided walks, rock safaris, boat trips, children’s nature activities, wildlife safaris

COMEDY / FAMILY Various venues, Inverness, happy-ness.co.uk

HAPPYNESS COMEDY FESTIVAL

A five-day curated festival of comedy, recreational and sporting events taking place across 41

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multiple venues in the Highland capital. New and local comics share the bill with internationally recognised acts and Gaelic comedy gets a look in with a dedicated show. 23–25 MAY

ISLE OF SKYE ACCORDION AND FIDDLE FESTIVAL

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . ROCKNESS Scenic sounds Fast becoming one of the music festival season’s must-have tickets, RockNess is arguably one of the most scenic events in Scotland’s summer calendar. Set on the banks of the titular loch, you can keep a wee eye out for Nessie and enjoy some pretty sweet visual stimulation if you feel the need for a break from the ravages of festivaldom. It’s not just the landscape that’s stunning; the line-ups are equally impressive. 2012 saw Mumford & Sons, deadmau5 and Biffy Clyro headline across the weekend, plus there is always an array of smaller stages for up-and-comers, DJ tents and a bonus massive comedy contingent for when you’re all music-ed out. The camping options suit every festival-goer’s tastes: as well as the usual down’n’dirty site, there’s the choice of boutique glamping (glammed-up camping) or the Tangerine Field (where your tent is pre-pitched and all you have to do is turn up). (Kirstyn Smith) ■ Dores, nr Inverness, 7–9 Jun, rockness.co.uk

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23 MAY–2 JUN

HADDINGTON FESTIVAL MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Haddington, 01620 824816, haddingtoncc.org.uk

A local festival with a range of activities and musical concerts, exhibitions, craft fairs and a daily café and sporting competitions.

MUSIC Various venues, Isle of Skye, skyemusic.co.uk

24–25 MAY

A weekend of traditional music celebrating the twin tenets of Scottish folk music, the accordion and fiddle, with a series of gigs and ceilidhs on Skye.

MUSIC Ardrossan, North Ayrshire, ardrossanmusicexperience.com

23–26 MAY

KNOCKENGORROCH WORLD CEILIDH FAMILY / MUSIC Knockengorroch Farm, Castle Douglas, knockengorroch.org.uk

An outdoor festival with the emphasis on roots music, the line-up is a melting pot of world, folk, fusion and dub reggae music with electronica, hip hop and drum & bass thrown in for good measure, performed live and DJed. The musical programme is complemented by cabaret, spoken word, comedy and dance. 23–26 MAY

ORKNEY FOLK FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Orkney Islands, 01856 851331, orkneyfolkfestival.com

A firm fixture in the folk festival calendar and now in its 31st year, the festival’s combination of Orcadian talent and visiting musicians earned it the accolade Event of the Year at the 2011 Scots Trad Music Awards.

ARDROSSAN MUSIC EXPERIENCE

Returning for a second year, this festival brought Oli Brown, blues rockers Larry Miller & the River Devils, Inspiral Carpets founder member Tom Hingley and his band, and ex-Silencers maestro JJ Gilmour to the North Ayrshire seaside town in 2012. Peripheral events included a photography exhibition, guitar construction workshop and free activities for kids in the daytime. 24–26 MAY

ARIKA13 EPISODE 2 MULTI-ARTS / POLITICS Tramway, Glasgow, 0131 556 0878, arika.org.uk

The second in a series of experimental film events from Arika (who were behind the Instal and Kill Your Timid Notion festivals). Each instalment is designed to explore a particular theme through screenings, performances and debates. 24–26 MAY

BURNS AN’ A’ THAT! FESTIVAL HERITAGE / MULTI-ARTS Belleisle Park, Ayr, 01292 616143, burnsfestival.com

A whole festival dedicated to Scotland’s internationally LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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acclaimed poet, Robert Burns. To celebrate the 2013 Year of Natural Scotland, the festival heads outdoors to Belleisle Park for a programme of live music, and visual and performing arts. 24–26 MAY

MONTROSE MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Montrose, montrosemusicfestival.co.uk

Affectionately known as ‘Mo Fest’, this annual event in the colourful town of Montrose offers band nights, ceilidhs, big names on stage and a campsite. 24 MAY–2 JUN

DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY ARTS FESTIVAL EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Lights, camera, action Edinburgh International Film Festival is one of the world’s first fim festivals. Established in 1947 this granddaddy of the film scene will enter its 67th year in 2013. A trendsetter and innovator in the world of the silver screen, the festival has hosted the premieres of Toy Story 3, Billy Elliot and Brave as well as showing classic films like Taxi Driver, Blade Runner and Cinema Paradiso. Renowned for its varied programme, EIFF showcases everything from features, documentaries and retrospectives to shorts, panel discussions and educational workshops. It’s not just the programme that’s diverse, the films are shown on all manner of big screens: from the cosy-but-cool independent cinemas like Filmhouse and Cameo, to the booming arenas of Cineworld and the Festival Theatre. Not content with being a purveyor of fine cinema, EIFF also hands out a number of awards each year. Those include the Michael Powell Award for Best British Feature Film, awards for the Best International Feature Film and Short, plus The Student Critics Award chosen by the film critics of the future. 2013 promises to be just as innovative as Chris Fujiwara enters his second year as EIFF’s Artistic Director. There aren’t any clues yet as to what the programme will consist of, but word on the street is that it will present innovative developments in world cinema alongside new features and events. With the usual mix of premieres and original filmmaking to look forward to, EIFF 2013 looks set to be another cracking festival. (Jen Bowden) ■ Various venues, Edinburgh, 19–30 Jun, 0131 228 4051, edfilmfest.org.uk

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FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Dumfries and Galloway, 01387 260447, dgartsfest.com

Forty events in ten days, filling the region’s theatres, halls and cafes with live music, dance and comedy. 25 MAY

MAUCHLINE HOLY FAIR COMMUNITY / FAMILY / HERITAGE Mauchline, 01290 559304, mauchlineburnsclub.com

A recreation of an 18th century street festival in the tradition of the fairs held in Robert Burns’ time, featuring over 70 market stalls and living history re-enactments. 25–26 MAY

COAST FESTIVAL ART / FAMILY Various venues, Banff & Macduff, coastfestival.org.uk

Set in the stunning twin harbour LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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25–27 MAY

THE EDINBURGH GUITAR & MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC Corn Exchange, Edinburgh, edinburghguitarandmusic festival.co.uk

A new festival for 2013 and the largest of its kind in Scotland with an extensive programme of performances, seminars and competitions, as well as a trade exhibition. Performances will feature an international line-up of artists including Jan Akkerman, Peter Finger, John Doan, Anth Purdy and The Maria Camahort Quintet. There are also two student guitar competitions, the EGMFestival Juniors Guitar Competition and the EGMFestival Seniors Guitar Competition, the finalists of which will perform live on Sun 26 May.

25 MAY–2 JUN

TWEEDLOVE BIKE FESTIVAL FAMILY / OUTDOOR Various venues, Scottish Borders, 0131 555 0044, tweedlove.com

Now in its fourth year, TweedLove is nine days of bike riding and good times in the iconic Tweed Valley in the Scottish Borders. TweedLove encompasses all things cycling – from road and mountain bike races that attract pro cyclists to family rides through Peebles town centre and informal jaunts into the hills guided by local riders. There’s also a photography and film competition, music gigs and barbecues. 27–30 MAY

FIFE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC MUSIC Various venues, Fife, ffom.org.uk

Performers at this community festival range from primary school children to adults, in both vocal and instrumental classes, competitive and noncompetitive. Performances are open to anyone to come along and watch. 30 MAY–1 JUN

25–27 MAY

SPRING FLING ART / FAMILY Various venues, Dumfries and Galloway, spring-fling.co.uk

A vibrant visual art and craft open studios event covering the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway in south-west Scotland and offering a chance to see behind-the-scenes of around 80 local artists. The Spring Fling Fringe provides a complementary programme of music and arts performances.

ABERDEEN & NORTH EAST CAMRA BEER FESTIVAL FOOD & DRINK Richard Donald Stand, Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen, 01224 575940, aberdeencamra.co.uk

CAMRA’s (The Campaign for Real Ale) most northerly annual festival is now in its 27th year and offers the chance to sample from over 100 cask ales selected from throughout the UK, real ciders and perries and a selection of continental bottled beers.

WILLIAM ELLIS

towns of Banff and Macduff in north Aberdeenshire, Coast is predominantly a visual arts festival, with elements of performance and community participation. 2013’s theme is artists’ responses to nature, working outdoors or with natural materials.

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . GLASGOW JAZZ FESTIVAL Finger-clicking jams Based in and around the Merchant City, Glasgow International Jazz Festival has welcomed countless world-renowned performers since its launch in 1987, including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, George Benson, Isaac Hayes, Dionne Warwick, Van Morrison, Carol Kidd and Tommy Smith, among other local and global jazz greats. This year’s festival will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Old Fruitmarket, which the Jazz Festival opened in July 1993 to the strains of Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Band. It will also feature a photography exhibition starring some of the major names and jazz torchbearers who have played the venue through the years, including Chick Corea, Tito Puente, Buddy Guy, Celia Cruz, Jack Bruce and Arturo Sandoval. Determined to present jazz as a broad, inclusive and accessible style, the festival’s programme embraces blues, reggae, funk, soul, hip hop and, as such, promises something for everyone. (Nicola Meighan) ■ Various venues, Glasgow, 26–30 Jun, jazzfest.co.uk

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30 MAY–2 JUN

31 MAY–2 JUN

TBC MAY

ANGUS GLENS WALKING FESTIVAL

MARGINS BOOK AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

KINTYRE SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL

OUTDOOR Various venues, Angus, 01307 473168, angusahead.com/ walkingfestival

FAMILY / LITERATURE / MUSIC Various venues, Aberdeen, marginsfestival.com

MUSIC Campbeltown, Argyll, kintyresongwritersfestival.co.uk

Twenty-eight walks over four days from gentle coastal strolls to exhilarating hikes, all guided by experienced mountain leaders. The evening programme is crowned by a popular ceilidh on the Saturday night.

Back again for year three, this hip young festival spreads its wings to a new city for Margins Aberdeen. Set over two weekends, confirmed acts so far include Robert Newman, FOUND, Alasdair Gray, Christopher Brookmyre, Janice Galloway and more for six days of music, books and debate.

30 MAY–2 JUN TBC

NORTHERN ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Inverness, 01463 772800, northernrootsfestival.co.uk

Bruce MacGregor of Blazin’ Fiddles and BBC Radio Scotland started this festival to showcase the finest roots, folk and world music from around the world and it’s gone from strength to strength. 31 MAY–2 JUN

GARDENING SCOTLAND FAMILY / MUSIC / OUTDOOR Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh, 0131 333 0965, gardeningscotland.com

The national festival of gardening and outdoor living. Alys Fowler, Kate Rushworth and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers join the floral fun for this celebration of the garden. It includes show gardens, bonsai and floral art displays, and a cookery theatre and food fair.

Details correct at time of going to press but are subject to change or cancellation. Please check with festival organiser before travelling. Updated information will also be available at list.co.uk 46

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A music festival aimed at showcasing and promoting Kintyre’s home grown musical talent, along with appearances by a selection of higher profile guests. 2012’s programme featured The Gilchristians, Panda Su, Twisted Melons, Billy Bates, Macanta and more.

JUNE 1 JUN

31 MAY–23 JUN

COLOURSFEST

WEST END FESTIVAL

MUSIC Braehead Arena, Glasgow, 0141 771 9851, colours.co.uk

COMMUNITY / MULTI-ARTS West End, Glasgow, westendfestival.co.uk

Taking over the West End of Glasgow each year, the festival treats the ears to a great musical line-up, tantalises all the senses with a carnival and delves into the creative depths of local studios and exhibitions with The Hidden Lane Festival. TBC MAY

48 HOUR FILM PROJECT FILM & TV Cameo, Edinburgh, 48hourfilm.com

Scotland’s most popular filmmaking event, having inspired the creation of over 239 new Scottish shorts in the past five years. Participants are given a character, prop and line of dialogue, and have 48 hours to make a film, start to finish. All films are professionally screened, and the winning filmmaker wins a trip to Filmapalooza in the USA.

Scotland’s longest running dance event is held on the first Saturday in June every year and brings together 10,000 clubbers with superstar DJs. 1 JUN

WHISKY AN’ A’ THAT FOOD & DRINK Ayr Town Hall, Ayr, whatsonayrshire.com/ ayr-whisky-festival.html

Ayr’s annual whisky festival celebrates its tenth anniversary with the biggest array of whiskies yet. 1–2 JUN

MEADOWS FESTIVAL COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTIARTS The Meadows, Edinburgh, meadowsfestival.3st.org.uk

Edinburgh’s festival season kicks off with the Meadows Festival, which offers the best local bands, dance groups, quirky performers and workshops amidst lots of family-friendly activities. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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1–23 JUN TBC

5–6 JUN

OCHILS FESTIVAL

GONORTH CREATIVE INDUSTRIES FESTIVAL

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / OUTDOOR Various venues, Ochil Hills, 01259 452528, ochils.org.uk

The festival celebrates the cultural, environmental and built heritage of the Hillfoots of the Ochil Hills to the north of the River Forth with over 20 events including walks, talks, workshops and fun family activities designed to help people discover more about the area and celebrate the heritage of the Ochils’ landscape. 1–30 JUN

HORSECROSS YOUTH ARTS FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC / THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Perth, 01738 477729, horsecross.co.uk

A festival by children and young people for children and young people featuring performances and showcases by Horsecross Arts Join In groups (including Perth Youth Theatre, Horsecross Glee, Perth Youth Dance Company and many more) and performances by professional theatre and dance companies for children and young people. 2 & 9 JUN

WORLD OCEANS WEEK CELEBRATIONS FAMILY / OUTDOOR Rockcliffe Beach (2 Jun) & Port William Beach (9 Jun), Dumfries and Galloway, 01387 702362, solwayfirthpartnership.co.uk

Marine-related activities such as rock-pooling, guided walks, treasure hunts, sea shell identification, sea shell art, and beach cleans to raise awareness of the world’s seas and oceans, based around World Oceans Day on 8 Jun. 48

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MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Inverness, gonorthfestival.co.uk

A creative industries festival that started out as a music showcasing festival and has grown into an industry staple, showcasing some of the best emerging Scottish talent across the genres.

Raehills Meadows, Moffat, edenfestival.co.uk A small and well-thought-out music fest with a varied line-up supported by family-friendly activities, exhibitions and cabaret and comedy tents. 7–9 JUN

ROCKNESS MUSIC Dores, nr Inverness, rockness.co.uk

6–8 JUN

See panel, p42.

RUTHVEN PARISH FESTIVAL

8–9 JUN

MUSIC Ruthven Church, Blairgowrie, 01828 632558, ruthvenassociation.org

Located in a small country church on the River Isla, this classical music festival takes as its theme Viva Italia! with two concerts featuring the Ruthven Musicians (conducted by Howard Duthie and Allan Young) as well as performances of Vivaldi’s ‘Gloria’ and Monteverdi’s ‘Beatus vir’ by the Perth-based choir Chansons.

UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD CUP FORT WILLIAM MUSIC / OUTDOOR Fort William, fortwilliamworld cup.co.uk

Mountain Bike action from the planet’s top riders and, off the tracks, the World Cup Village offering all the latest mountain bike goodies, demos and entertainment. Last year held a treat for music fans: the Downhill Downtown, concerts at the Nevis Centre featuring top Scottish indie bands.

6–16 JUN

GLASGOW SCIENCE FESTIVAL

8–16 JUN

FAMILY / SCIENCE Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 330 5370, glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTIARTS Various venues, Leith, 0131 629 1214, leithfestival.com

This year’s theme is ‘Glasgow, Naturally’ and a packed programme of workshops, shows, films, discussion, exhibitions and art collaborations allows budding scientists to sit back and learn something new or don safety goggles and take part in an experiment.

The vibrant community of Leith shows off its festival skills with a fun-packed programme of events. Among the line-up of exhibitons, concerts, walks, talks and films is the anticipated Leith Festival Gala Day on Leith Links.

7–9 JUN

THE EDEN FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC

LEITH FESTIVAL

10–15 JUN

CUMNOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL MULTI-ARTS / MUSIC Various venues, Cumnock, LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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01290 426242, createcumnock arts.webeden.co.uk 2013 marks ten years of this local multi-arts festival. Mixing music, art, comedy, poetry and a popular carnival, the bill includes Les McEwan’s Legendary Bay City Rollers, Talon: The Best of the Eagles, And Finally . . . Phil Collins and Koda. 10–16 JUN

FESTIVAL OF THE EROTIC ARTS MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, erotic-arts.co.uk

After a successful first outing last year, this festival specialising in all things naughty and arty returns for a second week of big-time sensuality in the form of performance, visual arts and crafts, film and more. 13 JUN

MUSIC FOR YOUTH: NATIONAL FESTIVAL SCOTLAND

T IN THE PARK

MUSIC Perth Concert Hall, Perth, 02077 591830, mfy.org.uk/national

The Big Daddy of Scotland’s music festival calendar, 2013’s T in the Park is expected to be even bigger and better than ever before, as the Balado-based behemoth prepares to celebrate its 20th year on the scene with a bumper line-up of acts, including international superstar Rihanna. While organisers are keen to keep the headliners close to their chest until the launch in spring, the calibre from years gone by suggests this is one party you won’t want to miss. Previous rock, pop and indie giants to grace the TITP stage include Beyoncé, Stone Roses, REM, New Order, Kings of Leon, Noel Gallagher, Jessie J, Florence + the Machine and The Wanted – and that’s us barely getting started. Lest we forget the dance-floor anthems to be found in the SLAM tent or the up-and-coming stars who annually grace the T Break stage. From relatively small beginnings, TITP’s mighty music mettle now plays host to over 85,000 fans, its vast airfield and multiple stages providing endless scale and limitless possibilities, whether you’re rocking up for the day or setting your stall for the whole weekend’s roster of talent. So much more than a music festival, the last few years have seen a boom in glamping (glamorous camping) on site for those looking for a little more luxury. Foodies, too, can rejoice with some of Scotland’s yummiest producers serving up something beyond the traditional festival burger fare. Prepare for a party and you won’t be disappointed. (Anna Millar) ■ T in the Park, Balado, Kinross, 12–14 Jul, tinthepark.com.

A one-day music festival featuring young musicians from across Scotland. 13–16 JUN

BORDERS BOOK FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Harmony Garden, Melrose, bordersbookfestival.org

Taking place in the National Trust’s Georgian Harmony Garden, in the heart of Melrose, the Borders Book Festival attracts world-class writers and personalities and also hosts the £25,000 Walter Scott Prize for historical fiction awards, with previous winners including Hilary Mantel and Sebastian Barry.

Tip top tunes

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13–16 JUN

14–16 JUN

FABFEST!

DUNOON FILM FESTIVAL

ART / FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Balfron, 07760 114845, fabfest2013.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . EAST NEUK FESTIVAL Classical music and more Originally a small and cosy series of summer classical music concerts given by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, seven years later East Neuk has gained a reputation for attracting world class artists, musicians and writers to its annual arts festival. Still very much centred on a classical music programme, the festival has now developed into an annual celebration of the arts, adding literature and art to the bill for 2013’s bird-themed programme. Joining the SCO are Tallis Scholars, London Conchord Ensemble, Red Note, Elias String Quartet, the Tokyo String Quartet (in its last ever European recital) and Christian Zacharias. There’s a special treat in the form of the UK premiere of Inuksuit, a huge outdoor percussion work composed in 2009 by John Luther Adams and Littoral, the festival’s literary strand builds on 2012’s success with an expanded remit of events. (Jen Bowden) ■ Various venues, East Neuk, 3–7 July, eastneukfestival.com

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Visual arts events celebrating creativity in the heart of rural West Stirlingshire with adult and family workshops, an art and craft fair, exhibitions and an open studio trail. A literary strand offers readings in the local library, alongside music and film programmes. 13–16 JUN

KIRKCUDBRIGHT JAZZ FESTIVAL

FAMILY / FILM & TV Various venues, Dunoon, 01369 703302, burghhalldunoon.com

A new boutique festival celebrating Scotland at the movies with classic titles featuring major homegrown stars, rediscovered gems and new work by Scottish directors. 14–16 JUN

FYNEFEST FOOD & DRINK / MUSIC Fyne Ales Brewery, Cairndow, 01499 600120, fynefest.com

The 16th instalment of the festival offers a programme of music featuring professional artists and musicians from the jazz scene, with everything from New Orleans influences to Ragtime.

Beer is the star at Fyne Ales Brewery with over 100 different choices from the UK’s best breweries available over the weekend, accompanied by an equally tempting music programme and food from a range of local producers (local as in venison burgers from the estate and fresh oysters collected from the loch).

13–21 JUN

14–16 JUN

FESTIVAL OF DANGEROUS IDEAS

LOANHEAD MUSIC FESTIVAL

MULTI-ARTS / SCIENCE Scotland-wide, 01786 892000, scotlandscolleges.ac.uk

MUSIC Various venues, Loanhead, 07092 876798, loanheadfest.co.uk

MUSIC Various venues, Kirkcudbright, kirkcudbrightjazzfestival.co.uk

A unique education festival developed and promoted by the sector agency College Development Network, aimed at challenging, provoking and generating ideas about how education could be. Launched this year by Mel Young, President of The Homeless World Cup, there will be virtual games, philosophy cafés, a night of dangerous theatre at The Arches in Glasgow and breakfast at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Edinburgh.

Now in its 13th year, this local folk festival still emphasises pub sessions and fun. There are also open mic sessions, a craft fair and competitions for songwriting and the best recycled instrument. Workshops in the miners’ club include accordion, songwriting, slide guitar, banjo, finger-style guitar and fiddle. 14–16 JUN

TMSA KEITH FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Keith, LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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keithfestival.co.uk Traditional music, song and poetry across a platform of competitions and spectator events, ending with a Farewell Concert/Ceilidh to leave revellers with fond memories and the desire to return next year.

19–30 JUN

20–25 JUN

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

ALIVE FESTIVAL

FILM & TV Various venues, Edinburgh, 0131 228 4051, edfilmfest.org.uk

See panel, p44. 15–16 JUN

CRAIL FOOD FESTIVAL

20–23 JUN

FOOD & DRINK Crail, Anstruther, 01333 450935, crailfoodfest.co.uk

THE ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW

Food and music meet in this newer festival. For the foodies there’s the Taste of Fife with a producers market, cookery demonstrations and evening supper while music fans can expect some top Scottish names. For the children there’s a harbour festival.

FOOD & DRINK / HERITAGE Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, royalhighlandshow.org

Part agricultural show, part food festival, part family fun day out, with everything from motor, equine and craft programmes to food and drink and children’s activities. 20–23 JUN

16–22 JUN TBC

PEEBLES BELTANE FESTIVAL COMMUNITY / FAMILY / HERITAGE Various venues, Peebles, peeblesbeltanefestival.co.uk

Local legend, history and tradition combine for this annual festival celebrating summer. Services, discos and concerts are topped off with a Crowning Ceremony and Grand Procession to mark the beginning of summer.

SKYE STORYTELLING FESTIVAL AND GLENDALE GATHERING HERITAGE / LITERATURE / MUSIC Various venues, Highlands, 01470 511340, scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

The festival starts off from Edinburgh by bus and makes its way to various literary landmarks in the Highlands before alighting on Skye for walks, stories, music and a ceilidh.

17–23 JUN

20–24 JUN

REFUGEE WEEK SCOTLAND

MORAY WALKING FESTIVAL

COMMUNITY / MULTI-ARTS Scotland-wide, refugeeweekscotland.com

OUTDOOR Various venues, Moray, moraywalkingfestival.co.uk

This annual week-long festival of arts and cultural events and activities celebrates the contribution of refugees to our communities and promotes better understanding of why people seek sanctuary.

A series of walks in the varied landscape of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Country. Take in the sights along sandy beaches, over hilltops, past railway tracks and in the footsteps of whisky smugglers.

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Inverness, aliveministry.co.uk

A Christian festival with live music, talks, conferences, worship and days out. This year’s events include a Ladies’ Night at Drumossie with author Liz Curtis Higgs and Phillipa Hanna (who has just supported Lionel Richie on tour), a concert at the Ironworks with LZ7, Empire Nation and Ben Cantelon and band, and a children’s party with Out of the Box Scotland. 20–27 JUN

ST MAGNUS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS / MUSIC Various venues, Orkney, 01856 871445, stmagnusfestival.com

A prestigious music festival that brings international orchestras, recitalists, theatre and literature to the Orkney Islands for a week around Midsummer and is renowned for its unique blend of world-class performance and community participation. 2013 promises folk tales, myths and legends and a celebration of the explorer John Rae.

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS In addition to these festivals, there are many other major events taking place in June 2013 including: • Aberdeen Highland Games • ATP Champions of Tennis Edinburgh • Mountain Bike World Cup • Scottish Hydro Challenge, hosted by MacDonald Hotels For more details of these events see pages 18–21

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THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS 2013 GUIDES

21–23 JUN

THE INSIDER FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Inshriach House, Aviemore, 07724 617487, insiderfestival.com

A small and intimate contender on the Scottish music festival scene. Set in the gardens and woodlands of Inshriach House by Aviemore, it brings together 300 Scottish musicians to offer something special to its 1000 guests. 21–23 JUN

FAMILY / OUTDOOR Portsoy, 01261 842951, scottish traditionalboatfestival.org.uk

As traditional boats congregate in the historic harbour, the seaside town of Portsoy celebrates with a festival of music, dance and traditional crafts and art. 26–30 JUN

GLASGOW JAZZ FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Glasgow, jazzfest.co.uk

See panel, p45.

SOLAS FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS / POLITICS The Bield, Tibbermore, solasfestival.co.uk

An age-free arts festival with music, literature and spoken word, visual art and crafts, film and theatre as well as a programme of talks and debates. 2013 promises intimate venues, rising stars, unique collaborations, participation and mental stimulation. 22 JUN

ST MONANS SEA QUEEN DAY COMMUNITY / FAMILY / HERITAGE St Monans, Anstruther, 01333 739131, stmonans.org.uk

The oldest Gala Day in the East Neuk of Fife, it harks back to the fishing tradition of Scottish coastal villages. A fun-filled family day, the highlight is the arrival of the Sea Queen Party onboard a restored antique sail-boat, while dockside there are stalls, a mini fairground and live music. 22–23 JUN

SCOTTISH TRADITIONAL BOAT FESTIVAL 52

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28–30 JUN

ISLE OF GIGHA MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC Isle of Gigha, Hebridean Islands, flit@gigha.org.uk

The smallest music festival in Scotland offers a perfectly formed line-up of ceilidhs, headline concerts, sessions, workshops and a musical beach picnic.

Various venues, Edinburgh, 0131 226 1918, magicfest.co.uk MagicFest pulls another rabbit out of the hat with a progamme of close-up conundrums, mindboggling illusions, comic cabaret and other feats of the impossible. The festival begins with the Magic and Variety Gala Opening and continues to bamboozle with events and workshops. 29 JUN–7 JUL

SHETLAND NATURE FESTIVAL FAMILY / OUTDOOR Shetland, 01595 694688, shetlandnaturefestival.co.uk

From puffins to killer whales, otters to Britain’s rarest flowers, Shetland is a cornucopia of wildlife and this festival wants everybody to know – and experience it first hand – with a series of guided walks, family days out and evening talks. 30 JUN–5 JUL

LES-FEST 2

CANTILENA FESTIVAL ON ISLAY

FAMILY / MUSIC Valley International Park, Carluke, les-fest.co.uk

FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Isle of Islay, cantilenafestival.co.uk

Scotland throws up the devil horns for its only award-winning rock and metal festival, now entering its second year. Joining UK acts Evile, Virus, JettBlack, Furyon, Monument and Sarah Jezebel Deva are European bands including Bonafide and Descend across the Main Stage and Rock for Fund Stage, which showcases unplugged, acoustic and blues based acts.

The beautiful island of Islay plays host to a repertoire of worldclass classical music. Focusing on collaboration, education and creativity, the festival encourages participants to push their boundaries, and this is echoed in a summer school that allows local young musicians to work with established creative practitioners.

28–30 JUN

TBC JUN 28 JUN–5 JUL

LEITHLATE

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL MAGIC FESTIVAL

MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Leith, leithlate.co.uk

FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE

LeithLate is one huge art opening, LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

NEW DOUBLE ALBUM Features 20 tracks including ‘Blac k Chandelier’ and ‘Making of’ DVD

"Hear tfelt and brilliantly executed, it’s a creative peak” * * * * Mojo “O pp o s i t e s sets Biffy on course to become the biggest band on the planet” 9 /1 0 Rock Sound “Thundering… most deserved British rock success story in the last 20 years’” Q “Early Contender for album of the year’” FHM “Rock album of the decade” Fake DIY “An epic game changer of an album’” Xfm 53

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with multiple free events taking place simultaneously over a number of art spaces and local businesses on and around Leith Walk, all within the space of just a few hours on the same evening.

3–7 JUL

TBC JUN–JUL

6–7 JUL

GARIOCH THEATRE FESTIVAL

KELBURN GARDEN PARTY

FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE Wyness Hall, Inverurie, gariochtheatrefestival.org.uk

FAMILY / MUSIC Kelburn Castle and Country Centre, Largs, 01475 568 204, kelburngardenparty.com

Staging a mix of professional and youth theatre shows alongside community events and exhibitions, this Inverurie-based theatre festival aims to foster new talent by providing training opportunities in a range of theatre skills.

JULY 1–6 JUL

MENDELSSOHN ON MULL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Mull & Iona, mendelssohnonmull.com

This year the festival celebrates its 25th anniversary with a week of music and special guests such as the internationally acclaimed Chilingirian Quartet. A merging of young and professional musicians, the festival is composed of a series of free concerts played in venues throughout Mull, Iona and Oban. 3–7 JUL

EARLY YEARS FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, East Renfrewshire, 0141 577 4956, eastwoodparktheatre.co.uk

Babies and toddlers rule the roost at this multi-arts festival dedicated to little ones with a programme of visual art, theatre, movement, sport, film and more. 54

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EAST NEUK FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, East Neuk, eastneukfestival.com

See panel, p50.

Kelburn Castle provides the fairytale setting for this eccentric music festival. The graffitti project for which Kelburn is known is just one of the items of handmade décor, art and lighting that make the event a feast for all the senses. Four stages and various pop-up nooks host the musical programme – an eclectic mix of Scottish talent from the avant garde and the experimental to the accessible. There is also a plethora of events for children. 6–7 JUL

TARBERT SEAFOOD FESTIVAL FOOD & DRINK Tarbert, Loch Fyne, tarbertfestivals.co.uk

An opportunity to sample the internationally renowned seafood (and other types of cuisine) from the waters of Loch Fyne. Off-menu there is a parade of decorated floats, after which the Seafood Queen is crowned, and music on the Sunday. 7–12 JUL

CEOLAS MUSIC Daliburgh School, Isle of South Uist, 01878 700154, ceolas.co.uk

Annual summer school focusing on the connections between

Scottish traditional music, Gaelic song and dance, with expert tuition and workshops plus lectures, demonstrations, concerts and ceilidhs, all in the spectacular surroundings of South Uist. Shortlisted as the Best Cultural Event in the Highlands and Islands in 2012. 7–14 JUL

UNSTFEST FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Unst, unstfest.org

Britain’s most northerly festival on Britain’s most northerly island is a family-friendly affair with fiddle workshops, go kart races, film screenings and live music worth travelling for. 10–13 JUL

KILMARNOCK FAIR FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Kilmarnock, kilmarnockfairfestival.co.uk.

The third outing for this music festival. In addition to the usual line-up of Scottish music scene stalwarts, this year introduces a series of ‘Events in the Tent’ in the Centrestage marquee, which include acoustic acts, stand-up comedy and Q&A sessions with performers. 11–14 JUL

STONEHAVEN FOLK FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Stonehaven, 07811 455279, stonehavenfolkfestival.co.uk

The 25th anniversary of the festival heralds a line-up combining old favourites and exciting new acts in a programme of concerts, ceilidhs, workshops, sessions and the Tradition Bearers Concert, as well LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Scottish and European bands. 2013 is set to be similarly exciting.

The Wickerman Festival

19–21 JUL

SOUTHERN FRIED FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Perth, 01738 621031, southernfriedfestival.co.uk

as some more unusual events like the World Paper ‘n’ Comb Championships and the Aqua Ceilidh. 12–14 JUL

DUMFRIES FOLK ‘N ALE FESTIVAL FOOD & DRINK / MUSIC Various venues, Dumfries, 01387 267647

and contemporary music with a strong focus on Gaelic culture. 17–27 JUL

CRAIL FESTIVAL

19–28 JUL

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTIARTS Various venues, Crail, 01333 540108, crailfestival.co.uk

EDINBURGH JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL

T IN THE PARK

The festival returns after a three-year gap with headliners Phil Cunningham and Aly Bain and a line-up including Mairi MacLeod, Christine Bovill, Opera Bohemia, Temple Bros playing Everly and Cobblers the Clown. As well as musical entertainment there’s art, drama, theatre and outdoor activities including a sandcastle competition and rock pool guddle, for adults and children.

MUSIC Balado, Kinross, tinthepark.com

19–21 JUL

Celebrating the complementary pastimes of music and aledrinking, this festival favours the traditional versions of both, and brings live music sessions to local pubs as well as offering an open concert on the High Street on the Saturday afternoon. 12–14 JUL

See panel, p49. 17–20 JUL

HEBRIDEAN CELTIC FESTIVAL FAMILY / HERITAGE / MUSIC Various venues, Outer Hebrides, 01851 621234, hebceltfest.com

The picturesque Hebridean islands of Lewis and Harris provide a fitting backdrop for this family-friendly festival that showcases Celtic, traditional

Scotland’s festival of American roots music covers all the musical bases, including blues, country, cajun, gospel, swing and soul. Fill up on workshops, free gigs, local bands and their legendary soul food.

GUILDTOWN BLUEGRASS MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC Guildtown Village Hall, Perth, 07968 124582, scottishbluegrass.com

Scotland shows its love for bluegrass with this popular festival that celebrated 2012 with Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen, a top US band, who were supported by a selection of

MUSIC Various venues, Edinburgh, 0131 467 5200, edinburghjazzfestival.com

Scotland’s biggest jazz festival presents over 100 concerts in ten days all over the capital, in parks, churches, clubs and concert halls. With a programme featuring all jazz styles from early jazz to the avant garde, the EJ&BF usually manages to secure some world premieres, new bands, and new collaborations.

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS In addition to these festivals, there are many other major events taking place in July 2013 including: • Inveraray Highland Games • Inverness Highland Games • Loch Lomond Highland Games • The Open Championship For more details of these events see pages 18–21

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19–28 JUL

MUSIC AT PAXTON FAMILY / MUSIC Paxton House and Country Park, Berwick upon Tweed, 07752 570389, musicatpaxton.co.uk

See panel, p58 20–21 JUL

TIREE MUSIC FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC An Talla, Isle of Tiree, 01879 220520, tireemusicfestival.co.uk

Music is the star at this festival which was voted Best Small Festival at the Scottish Event Awards in 2012. The tiny Hebridean island, nicknamed the ‘Hawaii of the North’ plays host to a weekend of genre-spanning sounds as well as family activities and fringe events. 20–21 JUL

THE WICKERMAN FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC East Kirkcarswell Farm, Kirkcudbright, thewickermanfestival.co.uk

One of Scotland’s best-loved independent music and arts festivals, the centre-piece of which is the burning of a 40-foot Wickerman statue on the Saturday night after the headlining act on the main stage. The eclectic music programme is complemented by a fun fair, fire walking, and music and dance workshops, while the campsite hosts a luxury camping

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field with a handcrafted village of tipis, cloudhouses and yurts.

26–28 JUL

20–28 JUL

FILM & TV Various venues, Loch Ness, lochnessfilmfestival.co.uk

LOCHINCH CASTLE SUMMER ART FESTIVAL ART / FAMILY Lochinch Castle, nr Stranraer, 01776 702024, castlekennedygardens.co.uk

Top artists from Dumfries & Galloway showcase a wealth of professional talent in a wide selection of artworks including oil, acrylic, water colours, photography, sculpture, pottery, printing, woodturning and more. The Victorian stables and grounds host an accompanying series of workshops, talks and children’s activities. 21–27 JUL

DUNEDIN INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCE FESTIVAL THEATRE & DANCE Scotland-wide, 07951 918366, dunedindancers.org.uk/public/ festival.php

Held bi-annually, this event brings together dance groups from Belgium, Switzerland and France with those from Scotland to participate in an exchange of folk dance styles in a series of workshops and performances. 22–28 JUL

SURGE FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE The Briggait, Glasgow, 0141 559 4925, conflux.co.uk

Conflux’s festival of street arts, physical theatre and circus with new work from Scottish and international companies and artists staged in venues and streets around the city and augmented by a range of workshops and masterclasses.

LOCH NESS FILM FESTIVAL

An independent, grassroots festival in a unique location, this year will feature the best short films from around Scotland, the UK and abroad as well as two independent Scottish features and, for the first time, a guerrilla film workshop in which a short film will be created on the day from Facebook and Twitter suggestions. 26–28 JUL

LOMOND FOLK FESTIVAL MUSIC Loch Lomond, lomondfolkfestival.com

One of Scotland’s scenic lochs provides the backdrop for this family-friendly weekend folk festival featuring the best of roots and traditional music. 26–28 JUL

REWIND SCOTLAND: THE 80S FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Scone Palace, Perth, rewindfestival.com

Rewind goes large on nostalgia with the biggest lineup of 80s artists to perform together in Scotland. The music festival is now in its third year and always attracts a bigname line-up. 26–28 JUL

SPEYFEST MUSIC Playing Fields, Fochabers, speyfest.com

Well-established as one of the best Celtic and Scottish music LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

THE LARGEST AND MOST DIVERSE ARTS FESTIVAL IN EAST LOTHIAN

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festivals in the country with a varied programme of seated concerts, ceilidhs and stomps across three days and nights. The festival line-up features some of the biggest names from the worlds of Scottish traditional and contemporary music. 26–28 JUL

UGIE FOLK FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Buchan, 01771 613352, ugiefolk.co.uk

A small, intimate and friendly celebration of folk with concerts, pub folk nights and sessions. 26 JUL–3 AUG

ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FESTIVAL

PAUL HARRIS

FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Aberdeen, 01224 213800, aiyf.org

MUSIC AT PAXTON The art of music This festival makes use of the beautiful venue of Paxton House and brings it alive with a programme of international chamber music. Concerts take place in the Picture Gallery, which houses paintings from the collection of the National Galleries of Scotland. This year marks the anniversaries of Corelli, Samuel Barber and Francis Poulenc and Music at Paxton reflects this in its music choices, introducing some of their less-well-known works alongside familiar masterpieces. 2013’s line-up is similarly illustrious. The Endellion Quartet and Arcadia Quartet (the 2012 winners of the London International String Quartet Competition) join baritone William Berger, the Rhodes Piano Trio, Florilegium, French pianist Pascal Roge (solo and in duo with clarinettist Emma Johnson), Pure Brass and guitarist Sean Shibe, while there will be a major new commission from Anthony Payne. To complement the music, there are pre-concert buffet suppers at weekends and the house’s extensive parkland offers the perfect site for a picnic. (Suzanne Black) ■ Paxton House and Country Park, Berwick upon Tweed, 19–28 Jul, 07752 570389, musicatpaxton.co.uk 58

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Classical and chamber music, contemporary and traditional dance, jazz and theatre is also on offer from a cast of rising international and local stars, with companies travelling from the USA, Russia, Middle East, Africa and Asia to perform. 27–28 JUL

SCOTLAND’S COUNTRYSIDE FESTIVAL FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK / OUTDOOR Glamis Castle, Angus, 01250 875712, scotlandscountryside festival.co.uk

An outdoor agricultural festival with a modern twist. As well as the usual dog shows and shooting trials, look out for stunt horse riding teams, duck herding and terrier racing among many others. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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27–28 JUL

AUGUST

TRAQUAIR FAIR FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Traquair House, Innerleithen, traquair.co.uk/content/ traquair-fair

The annual family fair promises a full range of music, dance, crafts, theatre and non-stop entertainment for all. 30 JUL–3 AUG

AFRICAN DRUM FESTIVAL COMMUNITY / MUSIC African Drum Village, Glenisla, africandrumvillage.com

A five-day festival of African drumming and culture. As well as workshops in drumming, tuition will be given in singing, African languages, cookery and musical instruments for everyone from absolute beginners to more experienced players. TBC JUL

ABOYNE AND DEESIDE FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Deeside, 807799 772316, aboyneanddeesidefestival.org.uk

A small yet diverse festival, now in its 22nd year, that offers a selection of classical, folk and contemporary music, politics, thought, art, drama, literature and film.

1–17 AUG

HARRIS ARTS FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Isles of Lewis and Harris, harrisarts.org

This festival displays the Hebrides’ passion and aptitude for luring arts fans to idyllic locations and rewarding them with a showcase of professional performances and local artistry. Now in its 21st year, the festival is the highlight of a summer-long programme of events, illustrated talks, concerts and workshops. 1 AUG–1 SEP

EDINBURGH ART FESTIVAL ART / FAMILY Various venues, Edinburgh, 0131 226 6558, edinburghartfestival.com

Scotland’s largest annual celebration of visual art offers work by the best contemporary Scottish artists as well as exhibitions of the most important international artists and movements of the 20th century and other historical periods. 2013 marks the 10th edition of the festival, which will include over 40 exhibitions and reveal new public artworks around the city. Even better, many of the events are free.

TBC JUL

FUNNY IN FALKIRK

2–3 AUG

COMEDY Various venues, Falkirk, 0844 481 8108, funnyinfalkirk.com

BELLADRUM TARTAN HEART FESTIVAL

Falkirk delivers the mirth via live comedy, films and art with a top-notch line-up of familiar comedy faces, covering both boundary-pushing contemporary comedy and family-friendly appeal.

MUSIC Belladrum, Inverness, tartanheartfestival.co.uk

Now in its tenth year, this favourite of the music festival scene is back with a carnivalthemed birthday celebration. As well as the music – which

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . PIPING LIVE! A great set of pipes Piping is (a)live and kicking across Glasgow in August, thanks to this international celebration of chanter charms and bagpipe traditions. Coinciding with the World Pipe Band Championships (17–18 Aug, Glasgow Green), it welcomes nearly 40,000 people over seven days, with indoor and outdoor activities, masterclasses, a street café, lectures, museum tours, Gaelic language and Scots song workshops, and recitals. The city centre hosts daytime events, from art and photographic exhibitions, through whisky tastings and folk sessions, to food and drink marquees, while evenings offer the mainstage concerts. Glasgow’s National Piping Centre functions as a lively festival hub into the wee small hours, and its café sees pipers and traditional musicians perform in a laid-back environment – not to mention the daily (and ingeniously named) Pipe Idol contest, which pits the world’s top young pipers head-to-head in a battle of the chanters that would render Simon Cowell speechless. (Nicola Meighan) ■ The National Piping Centre, Glasgow, 11-18 Aug, pipinglive. co.uk, theworlds.co.uk

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SHOWTIME Anna Millar introduces the cultural feast that is Edinburgh in August

ot for nothing do thousands of artslovers flock to Scotland’s capital in August. As if the Greatest Show on Earth (aka the Fringe) wasn’t enough, Edinburgh annually plays host to some of the biggest, best and most brilliant names in literature, art, dance, politics, opera, theatre and more, as a collection of the most renowned arts festivals takes over the city. Established 65 years ago, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe wins the prize for presence with its enormity of scale comprising, in 2012, 2,695 shows from 47 countries. From award-winning comedians treading the boards to cutting edge theatre, dance and music from around the globe, the Fringe excels, utilising everything from the city’s most prominent venues to an array of inventive pop-up spaces – allowing its sizeable scope to embrace both established household names and exciting up-and-coming talent by means of its open programming policy. With its base in the Hub, at the top of the Royal Mile, the Fringe’s more highbrow antecedent, Edinburgh International Festival enjoys similar stature as a home to some of the world’s most interesting, innovative and exciting theatre, music and dance. Established in the wake of World War 2, its purpose was to ‘provide a platform for the flowering of the human spirit’ – and it does little to disappoint. As part of the festival’s curated programme, August 2012 spectacularly transformed Edinburgh’s iconic Arthur’s Seat with NVA’s Speed of Light, a groundbreaking participatory art-and-running project, bringing people together to celebrate both sport and culture. And August’s mammoth festival season doesn’t stop there: Edinburgh International Book Festival celebrates and showcases literary talent from around the globe. Ever-growing since its small-scale beginnings in 1983, the EIBF hosts over 750 events over three weeks, with rising 60

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stars and literary heavyweights mixing with politicians, comedians and graphic novelists to provide some of the food for thought. The 2012 festival integrated the Edinburgh World Writers’ Conference, scheduled 50 years after the controversial 1962 International Writers ‘Conference, Edinburgh, and is indicative of the EIBF’s aim of being a ‘festival of ideas’. Art, too, continues to take centre stage in August, with the Edinburgh Art Festival annually showcasing some of the world’s most famous artists, with previous exhibitions celebrating the works of Callum Innes, Dieter Roth, Ian Hamilton Finlay, Edvard Munch and Vincent van Gogh, attracting huge crowds to the capital. On a smaller scale but no less impressive in design are the Mela, Festival of Politics and Festival of Spirituality and Peace, which each bring their own unique charms to the festival juggernaut. A feast of colour, dance, music and food, the multi-cultural Edinburgh Mela, held just after the four-week Fringe closes, last year set its stall in Leith showcasing a new World Dance Feste strand, incorporating hip hop, Chinese dance, parkour, street theatre, Indian Classical dance and Bollywood: a popular innovation likely to be built on for 2013. While across at the Festival of Politics, organisers continue to push the boundaries, hosting an array of talent and talks at the Scottish Parliament, last year covering everything from thoughts on sectarianism and Scottish sculptors to the future of the music industry and discussions on William Wallace. Last, but by no means least, the Festival of Spirituality and Peace continues throughout August to encourage the community to explore diversity and promote peace, with an array of speakers, performances, film, food, family activities, workshops, art and much, much more. ■ See August listings for details LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Edinburgh Mela

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Edinburgh International Book Festival

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usually features at least one great Scottish headliner – expect a family-friendly atmosphere, theatre and spoken word events, ceilidhs, arts and crafts workshops and fancy dress. 2–24 AUG

THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO HERITAGE / MULTI-ARTS Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, 0131 225 1188, edintattoo.co.uk

This unique event that draws crowds (and performers) from all over the world celebrates the Year of Natural Scotland with massed pipes and drums, massed military bands, display teams, dancers and the haunting lament of the Lone Piper set against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS In addition to these festivals, there are many other major events taking place in August 2013 including: • Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open • Aberdeen Asset Management Open Presented by EventScotland • Argyllshire Highland Gathering • Cowal Highland Gathering • Johnnie Walker Championship • Ricoh Women’s British Open • Scottish Senior Open • Skye Highland Games • UCI Junior Track Cycling World Championships • World Youth Netball Championships For more details of these events see pages 18–21

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2–26 AUG

3–11 AUG

EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE

BALLATER VICTORIA WEEK

FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, edfringe.com

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / HERITAGE Various venues, Ballater, ballatervictoriaweek.co.uk

The largest arts festival in the world and the greatest show on earth. Every year thousands of performers take to a multitude of stages all over Edinburgh to present shows for every taste. From big names in the world of entertainment to unknown artists looking to build their careers, the festival caters for everyone and includes theatre, comedy, dance, physical theatre, musicals, operas, music, exhibitions and events. 2–26 AUG

FESTIVAL OF SPIRITUALITY AND PEACE FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS / POLITICS St John’s Episcopal Church, Edinburgh, 0131 228 4249, festivalofspirituality.org.uk

This diverse and peacepromoting festival joins Edinburgh’s cultural line-up in August with a generous programme of over 400 activities ranging from top-quality speakers and conversations to performances, film, food, exhibitions, family activities, workshops and art. 3–4 AUG

ARBROATH SEA FEST COMMUNITY / FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Arbroath, arbroathseafest.co.uk

Annual festival of maritime heritage, including the star of the show, the Smokie Trail – around 70 stalls packed with fresh seafood along Arbroath harbour.

Initiated in 1987 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s accession and to raise funds for the refurbishment of the Victoria and Albert Halls, Ballater’s Victoria Week brings together numerous sections of the community to lay on a host of fun activities for all ages. 3–11 AUG

PITTENWEEM ARTS FESTIVAL ART / FAMILY Various venues, Pittenweem, 01333 313903, pittenweemartsfestival.co.uk

In this small and friendly village, the harbour’s fishing boats, steep wynds and quirky cottages provide a picturesque backdrop as over 100 artists from all over Britain exhibit their work in houses, garages, halls and shops, and on the pier. 4–10 AUG

SHETLAND FIDDLE FRENZY MUSIC Shetland, 01595 743843, shetlandarts.org/events/ fiddle-frenzy

A week-long summer school and festival celebrating the music and the musicians that have led Shetland to become one of the world’s most highly acclaimed fiddle-playing regions. As well as music classes and concerts, it offers classes in drawing and painting, and traditional knitting techniques, and cultural trips around the islands. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Eden Court Theatre and Cinema Home of the Inverness Book Festival 6th–10th August and the Inverness Film Festival 6th–10th November www.invernessbookfestival.com www.invernessfilmfestival.com www.eden-court.co.uk

1 August – 1 September 2013 Scotland’s largest annual celebration of visual art www.edinburghartfestival.com

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5–10 AUG

INKY FINGERS MINIFEST

Edinburgh Art Festival

LITERATURE The Forest Café, Edinburgh, inkyfingersedinburgh. wordpress.com

A free celebration of spoken word in all its forms: slams, storytelling, open mics, cabarets and a host of other events. The Minifest is organised by Inky Fingers, a grassroots spoken word events series based in Edinburgh. 5–11 AUG

FRINGE BY THE SEA FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, North Berwick, 01620 890787, fringebythesea.com

With a spot of sea air and an entertaining line-up of music, comedy, theatre, film, authors and children’s events, North Berwick’s multi-arts festival offers a respite from the madness of Edinburgh in festival season. 7–10 AUG

INVERNESS BOOK FESTIVAL LITERATURE Eden Court Theatre, Inverness, invernessbookfestival.co.uk

Since its birth in 2004 the festival has played host to Jackie Kay, Ali Smith, Ian Rankin, Iain Banks, Christopher Brookmyre, Mairi Hedderwick and many more in a scenic week of literary events covering genres ranging across history, cookery, the environment, biography and fiction.

Details correct at time of going to press but are subject to change or cancellation. Please check with festival organiser before travelling. Updated information will also be available at list.co.uk

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8–11 AUG

DARE PROTOPLAY FAMILY / SCIENCE Caird Hall, Dundee, dareprotoplay.com

Dundee capitalises on its digitallycapable status with Scotland’s biggest free video gaming education and consumer festival with games, talks, conferences and workshops for the general public as well as those in the games industry. 9–10 AUG

BFEST COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MUSIC The Bleaching Field, Wick, 01955 603911, bfest-wick.co.uk

The most northerly music festival on mainland UK is one of the friendliest with a programme of activities for all ages, world class food suppliers and a bar stocked with care and attention. 9–11 AUG

AUCHTERMUCHTY FESTIVAL MUSIC Auchtermuchty, 01337 860482, auchtermuchty-festival.org.uk

Traditional music and folk are the focus of this festival, which offers ceilidhs, concerts, dances, competitions and workshops with a line-up of prestigious guests and local, up-and-coming talent. Informal sessions allow visitors and musicians of all abilities to join in, so bring along your instrument of choice. 9–11 AUG

SAIL AND OAR FESTIVAL ON CUMBRAE FAMILY / OUTDOOR Town Centre, Millport, cumbraesailandoar.com

Not just for budding sailors, the Sail and Oar Festival offers a number of participatory water activities, Millport’s skiff racing championship plus music, crafts and children’s events. 9–23 AUG

EDINBURGH BOOK FRINGE LITERATURE / POLITICS Word Power Bookshop, Edinburgh, 0131 662 9112, word-power.co.uk

The Edinburgh Book Fringe LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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takes place in Word Power Books and brings together writers and activists from around the world for a host of daily readings and discussions, all of which are free. 9 AUG–1 SEP

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, eif.co.uk

10–18 AUG TBC

BLUE SKIES FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Dundee, dundeeblueskies.co.uk

One from the more unusual end of the spectrum, Blue Skies is Dundee’s festival of kite flying, stargazing and rainbow chasing. If that doesn’t inspire you to check it out, we don’t know what will! 10–26 AUG

Bringing world-class arts to the capital since 1947, the EIF sets the standard for classical concerts, opera, dance and theatre, with performers this year drawn from Australia, America, Russia, Japan, Europe and the Middle East. Major shows for 2012 included two innovative adaptations of Shakespeare: TR Warszawa’s 2007: Macbeth and Dmitry Krymov’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (As You Like It). And in Britain’s Olypmic summer Edinburgh’s iconic mountain, Arthur’s Seat, was spectacularly transformed by NVA’s Speed of Light, a groundbreaking participatory art-and-running project, bringing people together to celebrate both sport and culture.

EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL

10 AUG

11–18 AUG

CRIEFF BERRY FESTIVAL

PIPING LIVE!

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK James Square, Crieff, crieffberryfestival.co.uk

Soft berries are in abundance in Crieff with special menu items in local restaurants, a berry-themed market in James Square and a special visit from Struan, Strathearn’s giant walking strawberry, all making for a berry nice day out.

FAMILY / LITERATURE Charlotte Square Gardens, Edinburgh, 0845 373 5888, edbookfest.co.uk

The world’s largest public celebration of the written word takes place in the first UNESCO City of Literature in the beautiful Charlotte Square Gardens. As well as leading Scottish and international authors, the varied programme always manages to cover poets, politicians, historians, journalists and children’s authors, and the recent innovation of Unbound, a free cabaret-style evening event ensures that the literary fun runs far into the night.

FAMILY / HERITAGE / MUSIC The National Piping Centre, Glasgow, 0141 353 0220, pipinglive.co.uk

See panel, p59. 15–26 AUG

MARYMASS FESTIVAL FAMILY / HERITAGE Various venues, Irvine, 01294 324137, north-ayrshire.gov.uk

Traditional and contemporary events including a Festival of

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . BLAS A celebration of Gaelic arts and culture Now entering its ninth year, Blas (it translates very broadly into English as ‘taste’) is a week-long celebration of traditional Gaelic music and culture which takes place across the Highlands. Although the focus is largely on music, the programme takes a broad approach to Gaelic arts, with film and literature among the areas being explored. As was in evidence amidst last year’s line-up, the festival highlights the music of the Highlands as well as the Gaelic cultural experience, with ceilidh and fiddle bands and traditional song performances figuring strongly. There are big genre names within that – Blazin’ Fiddles and The Battlefield Band appeared in 2012 – and 2013 promises more fringe events including guided walks, a one-day literary festival and food shows. (David Pollock) ■ Various venues, Highlands, 6–14 Sep, blas-festival.com

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Light and the Crowning of the Marymass Queen. This historic event dates back to the 17th century and celebrates history, tradition and heritage.

17 AUG

16–18 AUG

Following on from the hugely successful inaugural event in 2012, this festival features an eclectic mix of local and established musical acts, craft stalls and storytellers on the banks of the Gala Water.

CULROSS FESTIVAL

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . SHETLAND BLUES FESTIVAL Why I sing the blues The UK’s most northerly blues festival continues to grow in stature each year. Taking place across a number of the islands’ pubs and venues including the purpose built Mareel, which houses some of the larger acts, the festival is rapidly becoming something of a mainstay celebration within the region’s festival calendar. The three-day event brings together musicians from various backgrounds – local acts and welcome visitors – to span a wide variety of blues genres. Blues enthusiasts and those looking to get more aquainted with the genre have the opportunity to sample traditional and contemporary sounds in beautiful remote surroundings. It’s a perfect excuse to take a trip to a part of Scotland that many want to visit but haven’t yet found the time. Reaching the milestone of its tenth anniversary in 2013, the organisers promise something suitably celebratory with old favourites joining new faces for a birthday bonanza. (Jack Taylor) ■ Various venues, Shetland, 13–15 Sep, shetlandblues.info

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COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Abbey House, Culross, culrossfestival.com

In the historic setting of Abbey House you can find music from across all genres – from opera to folk to children’s enertainers – on a bill that often includes theatre as well. The open-air lawn and presence of catering facilities lend themselves to a picnic. 16–18 AUG

INNERLEITHEN MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC Innerleithen, 01721 729949, innerleithenmusicfestival.org

An established Celtic music festival that augments its line-up of local musicians, sessions, traditional singing, street events and workshops with international stars, who in the past have included Barbara Dickson, Capercaillie, Eddi Reader, Dougie MacLean and The Battlefield Band. 16–18 AUG

TT16 FILM & TV cafébarge, Tarbert, 07949 723128, cafebarge.co.uk

Third annual festival of 16mm film projected inside an old Dutch barge. The programme is mostly chosen from the BFI Film Archive with a special mystery film on the Sunday chosen by Kate Muir, Chief Film Critic at The Times.

STOWED OUT FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Stow Quoiting Green, Stow, 01578 730749, facebook.com/ Soundout1?ref=ts&fref=ts

17–18 AUG

BOOKS, BORDERS & BIKES LITERATURE / OUTDOOR Traquair House, Innerleithen, 01896 830323, beyondbordersscotland.com

The stationary meets the cyclical at this celebration of literature, thought and the outdoors in the Borders. Using the natural environment and the inspirational effects of the outdoors to stimulate debate, events include literary and woodland walks and storytelling cycle rides. 17–18 AUG

SCOTLAND’S FESTIVAL OF HISTORY FAMILY / HERITAGE Chatelherault Country Park, Hamilton, 07963 128365, scotlandsfestivalofhistory.co.uk

The largest history and re-enactment festival in Scotland features more than 500 costumed specialists from across Europe to recreate 2000+ years of history from the Picts and Celts and Romans to WW1 and WW2. 17–18 AUG

WORLD PIPE BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS FAMILY / MUSIC Glasgow Green, Glasgow, theworlds.co.uk

The best pipe bands from all over LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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MAY 24TH–JUNE 2ND 2013

A boutique trail of events and festivities across the beautiful Dumfries & Galloway.

Pittenweem Arts Festival August 3–11 2013 Alasdair Gray Brigid Collins Jonny Hannah Keith Brockie and 100 other artists

www.pittenweemartsfestival.co.uk

2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

Opera A La Carte • Shooglenifty NTS • Chris Wood • London Soloists Ensemble • Lulo Reinhardt www.dgartsfest.com | 01387253383

Young at Heart Festival, held every March celebrates the arts in a variety of venues throughout South Lanarkshire. With a diverse range of Theatre Productions, Craft Fairs, Exhibitions and much more we are confident that you will attend this festival time and time again. The Town House Box Office: 01698 452299 www.slleisureandculture.co.uk/festivals

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JOHN WOOD

GUIDES

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . LAMMERMUIR FESTIVAL A classy festival A world away from crowded rock festivals, Lammermuir’s mantra is ‘beautiful music in beautiful places’. Some of Scotland’s most highly respected classical musicians play alongside emerging young artists in atmospheric venues. In 2012 this meant jazz guitar at Belhaven Fruit Farm, song and dance at Glenkinchie Distillery and a specially arranged music and light show at the Tantallon Castle ruins. Since its first run in 2010, the festival has regularly welcomed the Dunedin Consort, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and the National Youth Choir of Scotland, and appoints a young artist-in-residence each year. The area’s spectacular landscape inspires the programme, and a series of talks, walks and festival garden openings complements the performances. (Hannah Ewan) ■ Various venues, East Lothian, 13-22 Sep, 0131 473 2000, lammermuirfestival.co.uk

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the world, featuring 8,000 pipers and drummers, compete for the most prestigious prizes and the coveted World Champion crown. As well as the music, a dedicated children’s zone, gourmet food and Highland games add to the day out.

Cradle of the Nation) on the West coast of Scotland. The festival offers a mix of concerts, ceilidhs, music sessions, workshops, children’s entertainment, parades, and cultural and heritage tours that make the most of the location.

22–24 AUG

23–24 AUG

GUARDIAN EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL TELEVISION FESTIVAL

STRANRAER RNLI PARK FEST

FILM & TV EICC, Edinburgh, 020 7843 0146, mgeitf.co.uk

An essential fixture for everyone in the television industry wanting inspiration, networking, learning and fun. Run by and for the television industry, it is attended by over 2,000 delegates and has featured hundreds of globallyrenowned top TV executives as speakers, including Ricky Gervais, Professor Brian Cox, Elisabeth Murdoch, Mark Thompson and Jeremy Paxman. 22–24 AUG

TURING FESTIVAL SCIENCE Various venues, Edinburgh, turingfestival.com

Amidst the cornucopia of arts events in Edinburgh in August, this festival billing itself as the European SXSW focuses on technology and can be relied upon for some appearances by big names from the digital community. 22–25 AUG

MULL OF KINTYRE MUSIC FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Campbeltown, 01586 552056, mokfest.com

Traditional and contemporary Scottish and Irish music based in Campbeltown, Kintyre (The

FAMILY / MUSIC Agnew Park, Stranraer, lifeboatparkfest.co.uk

Stranraer Inshore Lifeboats adopt their land legs for a fundraising music festival featuring a range of local and familiar artists as well as craft stalls, fun fair rides and The Marine Lake with its pirate ship. On the Friday evening there’s a new event – the Young Guns Night, which is a showcase for young local talent. 23–25 AUG

BELL ROCK BLUES FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Arbroath, bellrockblues.com

Jazz and blues music from some of the finest local and visiting musicians, taking over a host of venues around the coastal town. 23–25 AUG

DALMELLINGTON WALKING WEEKEND OUTDOOR Various venues, Dalmellington, dalmellingtoncommunity council.co.uk

A wide range of guided walks to suit all abilities, from familyfriendly, themed nature walks to strenuous hill-walking in the beautiful Galloway hills. All walks are led by both local experienced guides and East Ayrshire Countryside Rangers and include LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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the likes of a night-time bat walk, pond-dipping and bird-spotting.

FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Peebles, peeblesartsfestival.org

23-25 AUG TBC

The only cross-platform multiarts festival in the Borders takes the local landscape as its theme for 2013. The arts on offer include music by local performers, visual art representing the local area, author readings, newly commissioned theatre performances, film, a crafts fair and tours with historical, humorous, musical, landscape and literary themes.

DOUNE THE RABBIT HOLE MUSIC Location TBC, dounetherabbithole.co.uk

A boutique music festival that manages a lovely line-up of music, theatre, comedy and spoken word performances. In 2012 attendees were treated to, among others, King Creosote, Bill Wells & Aidan Moffat, JD Twitch (Optimo), Jeffrey Lewis & The Junkyard, Josie Long, Three Blind Wolves and Pumajaw and 2013’s line-up will likely be similarly tempting. 23–25 AUG

FESTIVAL OF POLITICS

30 AUG–1 SEP TBC

EDINBURGH MELA COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Leith Links, Edinburgh, 0131 661 7100, edinburgh-mela.co.uk

23–26 AUG

World music, dance, fashion, food and fun spread over four areas: The Main Music Stage, The Mela World Dance Feste (newly established in 2012), The Mela Mix stage and the Kids Mela. The Mela Global Food Village is on hand to replenish your energy after taking in all the sights and sounds.

ARTMAP ARGYLL OPEN STUDIOS

30 AUG–1 SEP

FAMILY / POLITICS The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, festivalofpolitics.org.uk

A ground-breaking and innovative festival that combines the worlds of politics, media and the arts.

ART Various venues, Argyll, artmapargyll.com

Approximately 35 Artmap Argyll artists open their studios to the public for the fifth year running to show off their skills in painting, fused glass, weaving, wood turning, wallpaper design, sculpture, basket and willow weaving, glass engraving, printmaking, stone carving and ceramics. 23 AUG–1 SEP

PEEBLES ARTS FESTIVAL

LANARK MUSIC CONNECTIONS COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Lanark, lanarkmusicconnections.com

Folk, blues and rock rub shoulders at this mix of local talent and more well-known artists that includes jam sessions, open mic events and workshops. Drever McGuire Young (Ivan Drever, Frank McGuire and Rich Young) and Patsy Matheson are confirmed so far, while the Foundry Stage showcases new music. Even better, most gigs are completely free.

GRAHAM SMITH

2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . ENCHANTED FOREST If you go down to the woods today . . . The multi award-winning Enchanted Forest has been transforming Pitlochry’s autumnal landscape into a dazzling sound and light extravaganza for more than a decade. As night falls, visitors are encouraged to delve deep into the heart of Faskally Wood and explore the visual and aural installations for as long as it takes to fully appreciate the blend of spectacular lighting and music. 2012’s event, titled ‘Flow’, combined storytelling, special water effects and mythological influences for a unique look at ancient traditions from across the globe. It’s a real community effort; creative talents from the local area including theatres, artists and musicians band together to carve this particularly atmospheric cranny of haunting wonderland out of the natural landscape, attracting visitors from across the country. Regular shuttle buses from Pitlochry ensure nobody misses out on this multi-sensory delight. (Kirstyn Smith) ■ Faskally Wood, Pitlochry, 4–26 Oct, enchantedforest. org.uk

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30 AUG–8 SEP

SCREENPLAY FAMILY / FILM & TV Mareel, Lerwick, 01595 743843, shetlandarts.org/screenplay

Shetland’s annual film festival curated by film critics Linda Ruth Williams and Mark Kermode features screenings, lectures and panel discussions involving national and international film industry professionals and film academics while still maintaining a commitment to local film makers of all ages. 30 AUG–15 SEP

MCLELLAN ARTS FESTIVAL HERITAGE / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Arran, 01770 302670, arranart.com/atat/ index.html

A celebration of emerging Scottish writing talent across all genres, inspired by the late great playwright Robert McLellan (1907–1985). Poet Simon Armitage presides over this year’s programme of performances of writing by McLellan and new writing, especially in Scots. 31 AUG

THE HAAR FESTIVAL FAMILY / HERITAGE Auchmithie, Arbroath, rikkicraig@hotmail.com

Heritage Arts Auchmithie Residents festival is a celebration of life in the Village of Auchmithie at the end of the 19th century with

re-enactments, a flower festival and a tea room with home baking. The day ends with a traditional fisher wedding. 31 AUG–8 SEP

GREAT OUTDOORS FESTIVAL FAMILY / OUTDOOR Various venues, Central Scotland, stirling.gov.uk/ outdoorsfestival

Making the most of Central Scotland’s natural settings, the festival offers walks, rides and paddles with experienced leaders. Events cater for all abilities – from strenuous climbs to scenic daunders – perhaps with wildlife spotting, a mountain bike ride or an archaeological dig along the way. 31 AUG–8 SEP

LARGS VIKING FESTIVAL FAMILY / HERITAGE The Promenade, Largs, 01475 676182, largsvikingfestival.com

On the 750th anniversary of the Battle of Largs meet King Alexander of Scotland and King Haakon of Norway with living history installations in two educational villages. Following craft demonstrations, a farmers’ market and aerobatic displays, the festival culminates with a re-enactment of the Battle of Largs, the burning of a Viking Longship and a firework display on the last Saturday. 31 AUG–15 SEP

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FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Dumfries and Galloway, flavourfortnight.co.uk

More than 100 foodie events, activities and experiences taking place across Dumfries & Galloway.

SEPTEMBER 1–7 SEP

SCOTTISH BORDERS WALKING FESTIVAL OUTDOOR Various venues, Scottish Borders, borderswalking.com

The Scottish Borders has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK. And this, the oldest established walking festival in Scotland, has a reputation for being one of the friendliest walking festivals of the year. 1–7 SEP TBC

A TASTE OF ANGUS FESTIVAL FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Angus, 01307 473228, atasteofangus.com

A range of activities – from food tastings to special events, restaurants featuring special local produce menus, chef demonstrations, farmers’ markets, free recipes and competitions – designed to showcase the best of Angus’ produce, like the Arbroath Smokie and Forfar Bridie. 1–14 SEP TBC

TASTE AYRSHIRE FOOD FESTIVAL FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Ayrshire, 07553 929798, tasteayrshire.co.uk

Over 100 food and drink events across the region, including dining experiences, demonstrations and practical workshops. Look out for the cowboy-themed pop-up restaurant at the Ranch at Dalduff Farm, foraging expeditions and the Square Sausage Celebration. 1–29 SEP

DOORS OPEN DAYS FAMILY / HERITAGE Scotland-wide, 0141 221 1466, doorsopendays.org.uk LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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1–30 SEP

NEW WORDS FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, Aberdeen, newwords.co.uk

North-East Scotland’s innovative festival exploring the spoken and written word in performance with an emphasis on events that combine literature with other artforms. 1–30 SEP

SEPTEMBAYR COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Ayr, septembayr.com

A mixed arts festival held during the month of September in the town of Ayr, as the name suggests. Events run the gamut from piano recitals to rock bands, ghost story nights to local history evenings, and attract local and big-named acts suitable for adults and children.

6–8 SEP

BLACK ISLE WORDS LITERATURE The Old Brewery, Cromarty, blackislewords.co.uk

An informal local literary fest taking place in the Old Brewery. As well as the expected readings and talks, the festival organisers make an effort to offer some outof-the-box events on the themes of books and spoken word. 6–8 SEP

DUNDEE FLOWER AND FOOD FESTIVAL FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Camperdown Country Park, Dundee, 01382 433815, dundee flowerandfoodfestival.com

A delicious staple in the Dundee calendar, with food and drink tastings, chef demonstrations, live music and competitions including the World Jampionships. Once they’ve had enough to eat, shows and facepainting are on hand to entertain the kids. Last year there were appearances from Mary Berry, Tom and Henry Herbert (better known as the Fabulous Baker Brothers), gardener Alys Fowler and music from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers. 6–8 SEP

3–8 SEP

LIVE@TROON

NAIRN BOOK AND ARTS FESTIVAL

COMEDY / FAMILY / MUSIC Troon, live@troon.com

FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Nairn, nairnfestival.co.uk

A weekend-long music festival run by volunteers for diverse tastes. It will be building on the success of 2012’s inagural comedy and film strands.

A range of musical, literary and artistic events with a fringe drawing on the talents of the local creative community. Last year had everything from Kate Adie to the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and this year offers a similar programme of favourite names from across the genres.

6–8 SEP TBC

MUSIC LANGUAGE MUSIC Various venues, Glasgow, cryparrot.co.uk

COLIN THORN

Every September throughout Scotland hundreds of sites are unlocked for Doors Open Days, from privately owned castles to factories and from ultra-modern homes to historic lighthouses and all for free.

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . DANCELIVE Happy feet Since it leapt onto the festival scene in 2006, DanceLive has proved itself to be a dynamic entity showcasing a cutting edge weekend of contemporary dance and striking choreography. Former talents to take to the DanceLive stage include Siobhan Davies Dance, Collette Sadler and Anna Krzystek, with 2012 showcasing the critically acclaimed and highly anticipated premiere of 12 Dancers/Deliberance, featuring 12 of Scotland’s hottest male dancers, as well as a roster of exciting new work from emerging young choreographers and an array of dramatic work from north-east based companies and dancers. Beyond the thrills of the dance work, look out for the strand of events for families and younger audiences, as well as exhibitions, films, special events and more. (Anna Millar) ■ Various venues, Aberdeen, 8–29 Oct TBC, dancelive. org.uk

An independent festival that 71

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brings underground music to the fore. The programme encompasses everything from folk to noise, ambient sounds to hardcore punk and hip hop to weird pop with an emphasis on new and emerging Scottish acts. 6–14 SEP

BLAS FESTIVAL FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Highlands, blas-festival.com

See panel, p65. 7 SEP

BOOTSTOCK MUSIC Resolis Memorial Hall, Dingwall, bootstock.org

Annual music festival to help fund educational opportunities for disadvantaged children in the poorest and most remote regions of Nepal. 7–8 SEP

HUNTLY HAIRST – FOOD AND FARMING FESTIVAL

GLASGAY! Home is where the art is First staged in 1993, the festival has grown from humble (yet still fabulous) origins into a month-long celebration of queer arts. Since 2004 Steven Thomson has been at the helm, curating consistently great programmes, and branching out into associated events like 2008’s Tennessee Williams Festival. The programme is wide-ranging, encompassing comedy, music, film, theatre, visual art, performance art, literature, club nights, education events and community arts projects. It draws on both Glasgow’s vibrant clubbing culture to offer Glasgay! editions of some of the city’s best club nights and its fertile performance arts scene. The festival has a strong reputation for commissioning new works and 2013 will feature specially commissioned pieces by Jackie Kay, Stef Smith, Martin O’Connor amd Donnor Rutherford. The theme for 2013 is legacy, and it coincides with the festival’s 20th anniversary. Expect work that focuses on what has changed in the last two decades in the realms of the personal, domestic, social and political. (Suzanne Black) ■ Various venues, Glasgow, 10 Oct–10 Nov, 0141 552 7575, glasgay.co.uk 72

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COMMUNITY / FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Huntly, 01466 720247, huntlyhairst.co.uk

A community festival featuring a wide variety of things to see and to do which are all connected to the culture and life of Huntly’s farming community. Local musicians provide the backdrop to a series of literature and foodie events as the contested World Stovie Championships seeks to crown a new victor. 7–8 SEP

ISLAY BOOK FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Port Ellen Primary School, Isle of Islay, islaybookfestival.com

An intimate and friendly festival LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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that caters to Scotland’s love of crime thrillers as well as introducing quirky and challenging books in a programme with something for all ages. 7–14 SEP

OFF THE PAGE STIRLING BOOK FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, Stirling, 01786 432383, stirling.gov.uk/offthepage

Now in its eighth year, this local festival offers a wide range of authors and speakers for adults and children of all ages, as well as How To Get Published, which gives budding local authors advice. Past line-ups have included some of the bigger names in the Scottish literary scene. 7–15 SEP

11–15 SEP

CEOL CHOLASA MUSIC Colonsay Village Hall, Isle of Colonsay, 01951 200336, ceolcholasa.co.uk

The secluded nature of the Isle of Colonsay lends itself to an intimate folk festival, which is a firm favourite with many touring musicians.

MUSIC Various venues, Shetland, shetlandblues.info

BLOODY SCOTLAND

13–22 SEP

FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, Stirling, bloodyscotland.com

LAMMERMUIR FESTIVAL

An innovative festival drawing on Scotland’s love of the literary macabre and celebrating crime writing by bringing together leading Scottish and international writers, showcasing debut voices and encouraging new writers. The festival is an annual event complementing Stirling Library’s own Off the Page festival. 13–15 SEP

The East Renfrewshire Food Festival puts the emphasis on local produce and eateries as local chefs mix with industry names in a programme of demonstrations, workshops and an awards ceremony.

MUSIC St Brides Centre, Braehead, douglasdalefolkfestival.com

DOUGLASDALE FOLK FESTIVAL

Small, friendly and affordable festival with something to suit every folky’s taste in a programme of concerts, workshops and pub sessions.

7–22 SEP

Annual celebration of Scotland’s fantastic larder offering more than 200 events around the country. These range from cookery demonstrations to festivals, farmers’ markets and tasting events.

SHETLAND BLUES FESTIVAL

See panel, p66.

FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Various venues, East Renfrewshire

FAMILY / FOOD & DRINK Scotland-wide, scottishfoodanddrinkfortnight.co.uk

13–15 SEP

FEASTREN

SCOTTISH FOOD & DRINK FORTNIGHT

of Islay, so watch out for hand-dived scallops, crabs, chocolates, homebaking and of course, Lagavulin.

13–15 SEP

LAGAVULIN ISLAY JAZZ FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Isle of Islay, 0845 111 0302, islayjazzfestival.co.uk

A high quality artistic programme that brings Scottish and international musicians together in the unique location of Islay. The festival features a taste

MUSIC Various venues, East Lothian, 0131 473 2000, lammermuirfestival.co.uk

See panel, p68. 13 SEP–2 OCT

TECHFEST IN SEPTEMBER FAMILY / SCIENCE Various venues, Aberdeen, 01224 274348, techfestsetpoint.org.uk/tis

In 2013 running for ‘20 days to celebrate 20 years’, TechFest continues to make science fun and accessible to children and young people

OTHER MAJOR EVENTS In addition to these festivals, there are many other major events taking place in September 2013 including: • Alfred Dunhill Links Championship • Braemar Gathering • Invercharron Highland Games • Pitlochry Highland Games • Tour of Britain For more details of these events see pages 18–21

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of all ages. A highlight of the public programme is the Activity Weekend, offering over 35 workshops, presentations and shows. 14–15 SEP

BEST OF THE WEST FESTIVAL COMMUNITY / FAMILY Inveraray Castle, Argyll, 01499 302203, bowfest.co.uk

Set in the stunning grounds of Inveraray Castle, this familyfriendly festival highlights the best in food, drink, craft, music and entertainments from the west of Scotland. From fine crafts to fine food and from local pipe bands to world-famous headline music acts, the programme offers something for everyone, including a range of children’s activities, horse riding, archery and survival skills to tire out the kids.

in outdoor activities. From hill walking, kayaking, sub aqua and gliding to learning about geology in the field, nature and local history, the programme is packed with walks, talks and family-friendly events. Already booked to appear is Stephen Venables, notable as the first Briton to climb Everest without supplementary oxygen. 17–21 SEP

SPIRIT OF MORAY BOOK FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, Moray, 01343 562623, moray.gov.uk

A celebration of writing, illustration and publishing in Scotland at this local festival that attracts renowned Scottish authors (and kicks off with a whisky event). 20–21 SEP

LOOPALLU 14–15 SEP

LOCH LOMOND FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL FOOD & DRINK Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, 01389 751031, lochlomon foodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

Tasty tipples and appetising nibbles on the bonny banks of Loch Lomond. The festival comprises free cookery demonstrations, a farmers’ market, continental market, tasting and sampling sessions, a real ale tent and live music. 14–22 SEP TBC

ACTIVE ABOYNE FAMILY / HERITAGE / OUTDOOR Various venues, Aboyne, 01339 885222, activeaboyne.co.uk

This festival leaves no stone unturned as it offers something for everyone who has an interest 74

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MUSIC Broomfield Holiday Park, Ullapool, loopallu.co.uk

This music fest rewards festivalgoers for making the trek 60 miles from the nearest town. Past headliners have included Scouting for Girls, Ash, Franz Ferdinand, Mumford & Sons and Paolo Nutini and in 2013 the lineup will likely live up to such high standards. 20–22 SEP

TARBERT MUSIC FESTIVAL MUSIC Tarbert, Loch Fyne, tarbertfestivals.co.uk

Traditional music takes over the pubs and hotels of Tarbert with a series of concerts, workshops and demonstrations culminating in an open air concert on the Fish Quay on the Sunday.

20 SEP–6 OCT TBC

TAKE ONE ACTION FILM FESTIVAL FILM & TV / POLITICS Edinburgh, 0131 553 6335, takeoneaction.org.uk

A film festival with a political slant, founded on the belief that ‘cinematic experiences can inspire lasting change’ and offering a series of talks and programmes showing how films can be used to empower communities on an international stage. 21–23 SEP

DUNDEE WOMEN’S FESTIVAL MULTI-ARTS / POLITICS Various venues, Dundee, 01382 305731, d-v-a.org.uk

Celebrating International Women’s Day (8 Mar) with almost three weeks of events, drama, discussions and workshops. The festival also launches the centerary celebrations of one of Dundee’s notable daughters, Mary Lily Walker. 27–29 SEP

THE BELHAVEN BEST DUNBAR TRADITIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Dunbar, 07764 170399, dunbarmusicfestival.co.uk

The 25th year for this free music festival, which favours Celtic and traditional Scottish and Irish music. Slainte M’Hath, Guy Heath, Christine Bovill and Bluebelly are some of the acts offering up a selection of jazz, country, bluegrass and rock’n’roll. 27–29 SEP

BUTE LINEDANCE FESTIVAL MUSIC / THEATRE & DANCE LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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27–29 SEP

LOCKERBIE JAZZ FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Lockerbie, 0845 111 0302, lockerbiejazz.com

Big band music, contemporary jazz and some very hot jazz and blues featuring a host of leading Scottish and international musicians. The centrepiece of the weekend is the Take Five programme, which offers five hours of jazz and blues on three stages in the centre of Lockerbie. 27–29 SEP

MONIAIVE MICHAELMAS BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL MUSIC Moniaive Institute, Moniaive, 01848 200272, moniaivebluegrass.co.uk

talent with concerts, workshops and sessions, and completes the bill with established acts to give them something to aspire to. 27 SEP–6 OCT

WIGTOWN BOOK FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, Wigtown, 01988 403222, wigtownbookfestival.com

An established and celebrated feature in the Scottish literary calendar attracting many big names. For ten days Scotland’s National Book Town buzzes with book events as well as theatre, music and visual arts, site-specific events in quirky venues and a ceilidh. A dedicated Children’s Garden hosts events for younger readers. 29 SEP

BAXTERS LOCH NESS MARATHON AND FESTIVAL OF RUNNING FAMILY / OUTDOOR Various venues, Loch Ness, 0844 875 1411, lochnessmarathon.com

Bluegrass, Old Timey, Americana and Gospel music in Moniaive, the beautiful music village of Southwest Scotland. 2013 offers six top-class bands, workshops and even Appalachian Clog Dancers.

A family-friendly day based around all things running, with a choice of lengths for the fitnessminded, from a full marathon to a cheeky 5k with a ‘Wee Nessie’ option for under 5s. For those who’d rather not work up a sweat there’s the Event Village at the finish line with a food and drink fair.

27–30 SEP

TBC SEP

ISLE OF JURA MUSIC FESTIVAL

ARCHES LIVE

FAMILY / MUSIC Craighouse, Isle of Jura, 01496 820362, juramusicfestival.com

The 20th aniversary for this island festival of Scottish traditional music which encourages local

ART / THEATRE & DANCE The Arches, Glasgow, 0141 565 1000, thearches.co.uk

A selection of the boldest new work being created across the country encompassing a selection of formats including

SOLEN COLLET

Isle of Bute, 01700 503018, butelinedance.co.uk 2013 hosts the 22nd annual line dance festival on Bute, offering the chance to dance to country, blues, Irish and Latin tunes from bands such as Magill, Calico and Still Water. The weekend is open to all dancers, no matter what level of expertise.

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . SCOTTISH INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL: ONCE UPON A JOURNEY Once upon a time . . . Now in its 23rd year, the SISF has become part of an international storytelling culture, imbued with the authority to take on time-honoured traditions of the not-so-humble story and mix them with modern celebrations of the arts. Well-placed close to Hallowe’en, that time of year when it feels most appropriate to gather near and tell tales, 2013’s festival is themed around travellers’ tales. Be transported with nomads and explorers, not just across geography but through time and space. Based in Edinburgh’s storytelling hub, for ten days this lower profile art gets the airtime it deserves, holding audiences captive by keeping alive the ancient tradition of live improvised storytelling. Leading raconteurs from around the world will gather to weave narratives of cultures old and journeys new. You never know where sitting down for a storytelling session could take you . . . (Hannah Ewan) ■ Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh, 18–27 Oct, scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

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experimental performance, narrative theatre, one-on-one experiences, live art, visual art and more.

OCTOBER 1–31 OCT

TBC SEP

LUMINATE: SCOTLAND’S CREATIVE AGEING FESTIVAL

ST MONANS COMMUNITY ARTS FESTIVAL

COMMUNITY / MULTI-ARTS Scotland-wide, 0131 668 8066, luminatescotland.org

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTIARTS Various venues, St Monans, 01333 730741, stmonans.org.uk

Luminate, a new kid on the festival block, celebrates our creative lives as we age by offering a wide range of inspirational arts activities with and for older people, as well as events for audiences and participants across the generations.

With a strong local community focus, this festival offers a range of spectator and participatory events, with history walks and a camera museum ranking as two of the most popular among a programme of concerts, workshops, visual arts displays and literary events. TBC SEP

WORDPLAY FAMILY / LITERATURE Mareel, Lerwick, shetlandarts.org/wordplay

A chance to visit the beautiful Shetland Isles and soak up some literature. For its readings, writing workshops, children’s theatre events and book signings the festival welcomes writers of local, national and international renown. TBC SEP–DEC

PLAY POLAND FILM FESTIVAL FILM & TV Filmhouse, Edinburgh & Sikorski Polish Club, Glasgow, playpoland.org.uk

The biggest Polish film festival in the United Kingdom, Play Poland was established in 2011 and annually visits UK and European cities with a selection of the best recent Polish features and short films, film poster exhibitions and appearances from Polish film producers. 76

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2–6 OCT

GLASGOW AMERICANA MUSIC Various venues, Glasgow, 07960 152333, glasgowamericana.com

Blues, country and folk festival following in the footsteps of the fondly-remembered Big Big Country festival. 4–5 OCT

FEIS NA MARA FAMILY / MUSIC Mallaig and Morar Community Centre, Mallaig, 01687 460311, feis-na-mara.com

In 2012 Feis na Mara (festival by the sea) burst back on to the scene in Lochaber after a seven-year absence. 2013 promises continued success for the predominantly traditional music festival, with a roster of live bands, most of which have a local connection, workshops, a family dance and impromptu sessions in the pubs. 4–6 OCT

CALLANDER JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL MUSIC Various venues, Callander,

01877 339399, callanderjazz.com A long weekend of jazz and blues music with a touch of soul and rock’n’roll thrown in for good measure. The festival offers over 40 concerts and many chances to throw some swing jump or jive shapes (as well as a jive dance workshop for those who need to brush up their moves). 4–6 OCT

TORRIDON REAL ALE FESTIVAL FOOD & DRINK The Torridon Inn, Achnasheen, thetorridon.com/inn/ ale-festival.asp

Torridon takes its ales seriously. Showcasing over 20 ales with tasting notes on each, a vote for Ale of the Festival and some out of the ordinary flavours, seven handpumps work at any one time to keep the ale flowing. 4–6 OCT

ULLAPOOL GUITAR FESTIVAL MUSIC The Macphail Centre, Ullapool, 07740 423554, ullapoolguitarfestival.com

One for all lovers and players of the six-string with a combination of workshops, concerts, late night sessions and a trade fair with several top manufacturers of bespoke guitars. 4–13 OCT

COWALFEST FAMILY / HERITAGE / OUTDOOR Cowal Peninsula, Argyll and Bute, 01369 703785, cowalfest.org

A walking festival that takes place amid the natural splendour of the Cowal peninsula with walks focusing on heritage, wildlife or just a good work-out. As well LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Book your trip to Edinburgh with us. Great value train fares available from across the UK with no booking or credit card fees.

Book direct at eastcoast.co.uk

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as an extensive range of guided walks for all ages and abilities, there are also drama workshops for children, horse riding, orienteering, exhibitions, art, theatre and concerts. 4–26 OCT

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . SOUND Sound and vision Located in the North East of Scotland, Sound hasn’t let its remote status prevent it from becoming a hub of innovative new music with a reputation for experimentation. Via concerts, workshops, installations and talks a truly staggering variety of musical styles are explored, from contemporary classical music to electro-acoustic music, traditional, vocal and jazz. With an emphasis on encouraging visitors to discover new sounds and widen their musical horizons, the festival goes behind the music, this year offering a weekend conference on Microtonality (25–27 Oct) in partnership with the University of Aberdeen, showcasing the best in Microtonal performance and composition from the UK, Europe and beyond. 2013 also focuses on how sound and image interact with a programme including Man-High, new work by Stephen Deazley and Martin Parker, and Brian Irvine in partnership with Red Note Ensemble. (Suzanne Black) ■ Various venues, Aberdeen, 23 Oct–18 Nov, 01330 826526, sound-scotland.co.uk

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THE ENCHANTED FOREST ART / FAMILY / OUTDOOR Faskally Wood, Pitlochry, enchantedforest.org.uk

See panel, p69.

Biennial arts festival with a focus on contemporary visual arts that combines an open call for submissions with invited guests to inspire new work and include internationally recognised artists. The programme, which also includes music, workshops and artists’ talks, utilises unused buildings and exterior spaces in and around Cupar. There are creative activity workshops for children in printmaking, sculpture, zine-making and more.

5 OCT

PERTH ALL SCOTLAND ACCORDION AND FIDDLE FESTIVAL

7–13 OCT

FAMILY / HERITAGE / MUSIC Salutation Hotel, Perth, 01738 492949, perthaccordionfestival.co.uk

HERITAGE Various venues, Shetland, 01595 989898, shetlandwoolweek.com

The 64th annual festival of its kind. Kicking off with a ceilidh, the event takes in competitions and championships during the day before finishing with the Senior Scottish Championship and performances by some of Scotland’s top musicians.

Shetland’s textile industry celebrates the sheep that catapulted it to fame with seven days of masterclasses, workshops and events led by professionals from the textile and design industry, along with a makers’ market and exhibitions.

5–12 OCT

8–29 OCT TBC

HADDO ARTS FESTIVAL

DANCELIVE

FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Haddo House, Ellon, haddoartsfestival.org.uk

FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Aberdeen, dancelive.org.uk

Based in the impressive surroundings of Haddo House, this nine-day arts festival is part community spirit, part rescue operation to enable the house to stay open and offers a programme of classical music alongside local exhibitions, workshops and music events.

See panel, p71.

SHETLAND WOOL WEEK

10 OCT–10 NOV

GLASGAY! MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 552 7575, glasgay.com

See panel, p72. 11–13 OCT 2013 TBC

CUPAR ARTS FESTIVAL

EDINBURGH MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

ART / FAMILY Various venues, Cupar, cupararts.org.uk

FILM & TV George Square Lecture Theatre, Edinburgh, emff.co.uk

5–17 OCT

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The majesty of mountains is captured on film in a series of screenings, lectures and exhibitions. Focusing on adventure of all kinds, climbing, mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding, BASE-jumping, mountain biking, kayaking and exploration are among some of the adrenaline-pumping activities represented. 11–19 OCT

ROYAL NATIONAL MOD FAMILY / HERITAGE Various venues, Paisley, 01463 709705, acgmod.org/nationalmod

A Scottish classic, raising a toast to Gaelic language and culture in all its forms with competitions, concerts, shinty, dancing and more, courtesy of An Comunn Gàidhealach (The Highland Association). 11–19 OCT

THE SPREE COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTIARTS Various venues, Paisley, 0141 887 1010, thespree.co.uk

Building on the success of last year’s debut, this festival returns with eight days of music, comedy, arts and its very own Spiegeltent when it coincides with Paisley’s hosting of the Royal Mod 2013. 11–20 OCT

SCOTLAND LOVES ANIME FILM & TV Various venues, Edinburgh & Glasgow, lovesanimation.com

One for lovers of Japanese animated cinema, the festival showcases the latest Japanese animation with experts on hand to provide behind-the-scenes information.

12–14 OCT

TORRIDON WALKING FESTIVAL OUTDOOR Torridon Mountains, Kinlochewe, 01445 791242, walking.thetorridon.co.uk

With strolls and rambles for seasoned walkers and those less used to the conditions, the festival offers high level mountain walks, low level walks, nature guides, photography walks and other activities like a pub quiz and live music in the evenings. 12–19 OCT

CRIEFF & STRATHEARN DROVERS’ TRYST FAMILY / HERITAGE / OUTDOOR Various venues, Perth and Kinross, 01764 652578, droverstryst.com

Annual celebration of the life, work and play of the people who made Crieff the cattle-droving crossroads of Scotland in the 1700s. The modern day Tryst is a week-long festival in October run by volunteers and built around a programme of guided walks and evening social events.

for another serving of celebrity chefs and star culinary attractions. 18–20 OCT

MARGINS BOOK AND MUSIC FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE / MUSIC Various venues, Glasgow, marginsfestival.com

SCOTTISH INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL: ONCE UPON A JOURNEY FAMILY / HERITAGE / LITERATURE Scottish Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh, scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

See panel, p75. 19–27 OCT

ST ANDREWS VOICES

TWEED VALLEY FOREST FESTIVAL

MUSIC Various venues, St Andrews, standrewsvoices.com

FAMILY / OUTDOOR Tweed Valley Forest Park, Selkirk, forest-festival.com

The focus is on the voice for this eclectic festival of voiceled music drawn from opera, Lieder, folk, jazz, early music and contemporary genres.

A celebration of the rich woodland culture and ancient Hallowe’en rites of the Borders in a variety of locations around the beautiful Tweed Valley.

17–20 OCT

18–20 OCT

BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW SCOTLAND FOOD & DRINK SECC, Glasgow, glasgow. bbcgoodfoodshow.com

The food and drink extravaganza heads north of the border again

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19 OCT–3 NOV

24–27 OCT

25 OCT–3 NOV

DISCOVERY FILM FESTIVAL

ORKNEY STORYTELLING FESTIVAL

PERTHSHIRE AMBER FESTIVAL

ART / FAMILY / FILM & TV Dundee Contemporary Arts, Dundee, discoveryfilmfestival.org.uk

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / LITERATURE Various venues, Orkney Islands, orkneystorytellingfestival.co.uk

MUSIC Various venues, Perth and Kinross, 01350 724281, perthshireamber.com

Scotland’s international film festival for young audiences (3+) takes place annually over three weekends at DCA. It combines the best youth cinema from around the world with a series of creative workshops and events. A specially programmed exhibition by Japanese artist Hiraki Sawa runs in DCA Galleries from 5 Oct–12 Jan to coincide with the festival.

A four-day programme of walks, talks, story sessions and workshops with renowned storytellers from Scotland and beyond. The events are held across mainland Orkney with a trip to at least one of the outer islands; the last night always includes an Open Mic session to encourage new talent.

A ten-day music festival with 250 musicians performing in 25 venues across autumnal Perthshire. The festival, now in its ninth year, utilises venues as diverse as a tiny Ironage Crannog and the magestic Dunkeld Cathedral to present a series of afternoon and evening concerts, open mic, Cabaret Amber, workshops, talks and community events with a line-up including Dougie MacLean.

25–27 OCT 18–20 OCT

UNSOLVED FESTIVAL FAMILY / HERITAGE Haddo House, Ellon, 0844 493 2179, nts.org.uk/Unsolved

Haddo House, with its creaking floorboards and spooky nooks and crannies, plays host to the Unsolved Festival. Wannabe detectives, budding crime writers, CSI aficionados and those who just like a good old fashioned mystery can enjoy writer talks, films and storytelling events. 23 OCT–18 NOV

SOUND ART / FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Aberdeen, 01330 826526, sound-scotland.co.uk

ALCHEMY FILM AND MOVING IMAGE FESTIVAL ART / FAMILY / FILM & TV Tower Mill, Hawick, 01450 360688, alchemyfilmfestival.org.uk

Annual film festival with a focus on screening work that relates to the natural world, to landscape, to mankind’s relationship with natural forces, or to alchemy itself. The festival has a focus on high quality artistic projects and experimental short films from around the world, mixing this with thematically related feature length screenings and a sprinkling of cinematic magic.

See panel, p78.

25–27 OCT

24–27 OCT

DUNFERMLINE FOLK WEEKEND

DUNDEE LITERARY FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE Bonar Hall, Dundee, literarydundee.co.uk

A mix of events including internationally renowned authors, local names, children’s authors and the Comic Conference, which features graphic novelists. 80

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26–27 OCT

INTERNATIONAL METAPHYSICAL FILM FESTIVAL FILM & TV Castle of the Muses, Craigard, Cairndow, 01301 703053, internationalmetaphysicalfilm festival.com

The thinking film fan’s festival showcases films that examine the human condition and carry a profound metaphysical message for mankind. Over two days independent films are screened from around the world, along with talks and discussions broadcasting live from Scotland, which provides an opportunity for filmmakers, experts and audiences to communicate and connect.

FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Dunfermline, dunfermlinefolkclub.co.uk

27 OCT

Opening with a family ceilidh on the Friday evening, the weekend proceeds with a selection of workshops, sessions, open stage, family events and concerts run by a folk club that’s been in existence now for over 50 years.

FAMILY / THEATRE & DANCE Traquair House, Innerleithen, 01896 830323, traquair.co.uk/events-traquair

TRAQUAIR CASTLE OF MAGIC

A host of magicians throughout the house and spooky activities for all ages. LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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30 OCT–2 NOV

FACLAN: THE HEBRIDEAN BOOK FESTIVAL FAMILY / LITERATURE An Lanntair Arts Centre and Cinema, Stornoway, 01851 703307, faclan.org

Since moving beyond the equinox to the cusp of winter and focusing on themes such as Second Sight, the Supernatural and Blood, Belief and Pilgrimage this festival at An Lanntair has attracted major names. Drawing on its location in the Gaelic heartland it has also diversified, featuring silent and archive film with live piano accompaniment and exhibitions.

dialogue, and have 48 hours to make a film, start to finish. All films are professionally screened, and the winning film-maker wins a trip to Filmapalooza in the USA. LATE OCT–NOV TBC

AFRICA IN MOTION FILM FESTIVAL FILM & TV Various venues, Edinburgh & Glasgow, africa-in-motion.org.uk

Dedicated to showing the diversity of African cinema, AiM has screenings of animated films, features, shorts and documentaries, as well as a short film competition to develop the next generation of African filmmakers.

31 OCT

SAMHUINN FIRE FESTIVAL HERITAGE / THEATRE & DANCE Royal Mile, Edinburgh, beltane.org

Hosted by Beltane Fire Society, the Samhuinn Fire Festival celebrates the Celtic New Year, marking the end of summer and welcoming the onset of winter. It takes the form of a stunning torchlit procession down the Royal Mile with acrobatics, fireworks, beautiful costumes and breathtaking performances, all set to the collective beats of 40 drummers. TBC OCT

48 HOUR FILM PROJECT FILM & TV Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow, 48hourfilm.com

Scotland’s most popular filmmaking event, having inspired the creation of over 239 new Scottish shorts in the past five years. Participants are given a character, prop and line of

TBC OCT

EDINBURGH INDEPENDENT & RADICAL BOOK FAIR FAMILY / LITERATURE / POLITICS Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Edinburgh, 0131 662 9112, word-power.co.uk

Five days of free readings and discussions plus bookstalls with an emphasis on small and independent presses and writings from outside the mainstream. TBC OCT

THE EDINBURGH WORLD JUSTICE FESTIVAL POLITICS Various venues, Edinburgh, ewjf.org.uk

Set up after the Make Poverty History march in Edinburgh during the 2005 G20 meeting, the festival aims to raise the profile of international justice and development issues with a series of talks and events.

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . PREVIOUSLY... SCOTLAND’S HISTORY FESTIVAL Bringing the past to the present Previously . . . takes visitors on a journey back through time to make Vikings and Victorians fun and accessible. Still relatively young at three years old, its own history reads like a victory as it grows in size and popularity each year. Based in Edinburgh the festival begins with a day dedicated to Robert Louis Stevenson. Expect moustache-flashing, readings and eerie goings on a plenty in the streets of Auld Reekie. Then follows 18 days of historical homage in Edinburgh’s museums, galleries, libraries, universities, pubs, cafés and landmarks. There are author events, debates, family adventures and activities, all with a focus on the titbits of Scottish history hidden deep in the nooks of the nation. If you’ve got any energy left after all that, there are also teas and tours, exhibitions, theatre, comedy and photography events to visit. (Jen Bowden) ■ Various venues, Edinburgh, 13–30 Nov, historyfest.co.uk

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TBC OCT

6—10 NOV

15–17 NOV

ENCOUNTERS

INVERNESS FILM FESTIVAL

SCOTS FIDDLE FESTIVAL: FIDDLE 2013

FILM & TV Eden Court Theatre & Cinema, Inverness, 01463 234234, invernessfilmfestival. com

FAMILY / MUSIC The Queen’s Hall, Edinburgh, scotsfiddlefestival.com

COMMUNITY / FAMILY / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, North Lanarkshire, twitter.com/encounters2013

The North Lanarkshire Cultural Festival showcases the best of literature, art, music, drama, dance and more from the area. TBC OCT

A small festival that packs a cinematic punch with film premieres and a handpicked selection of work by international first time directors.

HISPANIC FESTIVAL MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, hispanicfestival.co.uk

6 NOV–1 DEC TBC

Spain comes to Edinburgh in an authentic cultural experience with renowned Flamenco performances.

FILM & TV Scotland-wide, frenchfilmfestival.org.uk

NOVEMBER 2–17 NOV

DUNDEE SCIENCE FESTIVAL FAMILY / SCIENCE Various venues, Dundee, 01382 228800, dundeesciencefestival.org

A city-wide celebration of science that offers fun, entertainment, inspiration and curiosity for all ages. The diverse programme features hands-on workshops, science shows, lectures, debates, comedy, exhibitions and a schools programme.

FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

The UK-wide festival dedicated to francophone cinema, which features filmmakers and actors in meet-the-public sessions, UK premieres, retrospectives, documentaries, animation, shorts and special events.

ISLAY SESSIONS FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Isle of Islay, islaysessions.co.uk

3–9 NOV

NEON DIGITAL ARTS FESTIVAL

13–30 NOV

ART / SCIENCE Various venues, Dundee, northeastofnorth.com

PREVIOUSLY . . . SCOTLAND’S HISTORY FESTIVAL

Scotland’s only international digital arts festival, it features moving image, performance, music and technology-driven arts across Dundee.

FAMILY / HERITAGE / MULTI-ARTS Various venues, Edinburgh, historyfest.co.uk

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22–23 NOV

DUNDEE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL FILM & TV / OUTDOOR Bonar Hall, Dundee, 01382 730699, dundeemountainfilm.org.uk

The UK’s longest continuous running mountain film festival (now in its 31st year) showcases an international programme of films by local filmmakers, presentations and book signings. 24 NOV–1 DEC

THE SALTIRE 8–10 NOV

A small and cosy traditional music festival set to brighten up the otherwise dreary month of November. The weekend is filled with pub sessions, workshops for all ages, concert performances and, if you desire, the whisky for which the island is famous.

Held over three days, this exciting, fiddle-fuelled weekend includes concerts, recitals, workshops, talks, stalls, sessions, festival clubs and ceilidhs.

See panel, p81.

FAMILY / HERITAGE / MULTIARTS Various venues, East Lothian, 0131 665 2240, visiteastlothian. org/thesaltire2013

See panel, opposite. TBC NOV

DANCE:FILM FILM & TV / THEATRE & DANCE Edinburgh, dancefilm.co.uk

Scotland’s premiere dance film festival celebrating dance and film in all their forms with musicals, documentaries, short films, video installations, workshops, lectures and events. TBC NOV

DUNDEE JAZZ FESTIVAL FAMILY / MUSIC Gardyne Theatre, Dundee, 0845 111 0302, LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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jazzdundee.co.uk International jazz names rub shoulders with Dundonian talent in a programme that covers many styles of jazz, including blues, soul, funk, big band and Latin. TBC NOV

THE ENCHANTED CASTLE ART / FAMILY / OUTDOOR Crathes Castle, Banchory, 01224 641122, theenchantedcastle.info

A spectacular and enchanting evening walk through one of Scotland’s most famous castles and its award-winning walled garden and estate, with entertainment peppered along the way.

0844 357 7611, lennoxlovebookfestival.com The house and grounds of Lennoxlove, the ancient home of the Dukes of Hamilton, welcomes literature lovers for a weekend of events featuring writers, poets, children’s authors and other notable figures that encourage debate and discussion of current affairs. TBC NOV

SONICA ART / MUSIC / THEATRE & DANCE Various venues, Glasgow, 0141 354 0544, sonic-a.co.uk

Cutting-edge performance by established international artists blurring the boundaries of music, theatre, visual and electronic art.

TBC NOV

FIFE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC FAMILY / MUSIC Various venues, Fife, ffom.org.uk

Performers at this community festival range from primary school children to adults, in both vocal and instrumental classes, competitive and non-competitive. Performances are open to anyone who wants to come along and watch.

TBC NOV–JAN 2014

EDINBURGH’S CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY / FAMILY Various venues, Edinburgh, edinburghschristmas.com

In recent years, Edinburgh has gone all-out, transforming the city centre into a winter wonderland with an ice rink, German Christmas market and fairground rides. Expect similarly spectacular festive fun in 2013.

TBC NOV

GLASGOW BEER WEEK

ST ANDREW’S FESTIVAL

FOOD & DRINK Various venues, Glasgow, glasgowbeerweek.com

A week of hop-related fun with brewers, pubs and restaurants all collaborating to put on beerinspired events. TBC NOV

LENNOXLOVE BOOK FESTIVAL LITERATURE / FAMILY Lennoxlove House, Haddington,

FAMILY / HERITAGE / MUSIC Various venues, St Andrews, standrewsfestival.org

Since St Andrew’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, this festival will provide a whole range of events throughout the day, as well as on the Friday and Sunday. Amongst 2013’s plans expect the Nae4wimps ceilidh, which is the largest outdoor ceilidh in the world.

SPOTLIGHT ON . . . THE SALTIRE Flying the flag for Scottish culture A week-long celebration of music, culture and heritage timed to coincide with the national celebrations of St Andrew’s Day. Everyone gets involved, with a special service at Athelstaneford kicking off the festival. The Scottish flag is paraded throughout the village before resting at St Mary’s Parish Church in Haddington where it flies throughout the celebrations. The Haddington Farmers’ Market hosts pipe bands and Highland dancers and Musselburgh Racecourse holds a Saltire Race Day, while restaurants and bars offer special St Andrew’s Day menus accompanied by traditional entertainment. Not just for the grown-ups, schools host their own St Andrew’s Day lunches with prizes for the best themed dining room. The traditional festival finale is the Scottish music and literature concert celebrating the best of the arts that Scotland and East Lothian has on offer. (Jen Bowden) ■ Various venues, East Lothian, 24 Nov–1 Dec, 0131 665 2240, visiteastlothian.org/ thesaltire2013

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DECEMBER 30 DEC–1 JAN 2014

EDINBURGH’S HOGMANAY MUSIC Various venues, Edinburgh, 0844 573 8455, edinburgshogmanay.com

See panel, left. TBC DEC

CROMARTY FILM FESTIVAL

LLOYD SMITH

FAMILY / FILM & TV Cromarty, cromartyfilmfestival.org

HOGMANAY

A film festival that fosters an intimate relationship between audience and guests. Interviews allow the audience to get up close and personal with big Scottish and international names in the film industry, while one of the screenings in the programme is decided by festival-goers.

End the year with a bang TBC DEC–JAN 2014 Hogmanay celebrations in Scotland’s biggest cities are like nothing else and an eclectic mix of tradition and fun attracts vast crowds. Edinburgh’s celebrations kick off with a traditional torchlight procession as thousands of flame-led revellers follow pipers and Shetland’s Up Helly Aa Vikings through the Old Town and up to the son et lumière (sound and light show) on Calton Hill. The party really gets going on New Year’s Eve with a street party, live music and outdoor ‘keilidh’ in Princes Street Gardens before the clocks chime midnight, signalling the start of the fireworks from the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle. On New Year’s Day, those with nerves of steel do the Loony Dook, a chilly dip in the River Forth, though many other less activities are also on offer. Glasgow’s celebrations centre on the gloriously Christmassy George Square, where fairy lights twinkle above the huge ice rink. Come New Year’s Eve, the entertainment takes to the streets as the annual Hogmanay Ceilidh gets underway. TIn recent years the event has been tweaked to have more of a family feel, with curling on the ice rink and music to provide entertainment for those looking for a break from the whirling reels of the ceilidh. New Year’s Day traditionally belongs to the kids, with a huge carnival gracing the city centre. Think thrilling, whizzing, stomach-churning rides, rather than teacups and hobby horses. Perhaps best left to the kids after a night of drinking, dancing and making merry. (Jen Bowden) ■ Edinburgh, 30 Dec–1 Jan 2014, 0844 573 8455, edinburghshogmanay. com; Glasgow, 31 Dec–1 Jan, 0141 287 8985, glasgowloveschristmas.com 84

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GLASGOW LOVES CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY / FAMILY Various venues, Glasgow, glasgowloveschristmas.com

Glasgow typically brings a family feel to the festive period with a range of activities in the centre of the city amidst a magical array of Christmas lighting, all leading up to the Hogmanay celebrations. For 2013 they aim to offer something different yet still include everyone’s favourite aspects of the winter festivities.

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INDEX There are three indexes: the first lists festivals alphabetically, the second by genre and the third by location.

ALPHABETICAL 48 Hour Film Project 46, 81 A Taste of Angus Festival 70 Aberdeen & North East CAMRA Beer Festival 45 Aberdeen International Youth Festival 58 Aberdeen Jazz Festival 31 Aberdeenshire Celebrates! 26 Aboyne and Deeside Festival 59 Active Aboyne 74 Africa in Motion Film Festival 81 African Drum Festival 59 Alchemy Film and Moving Image Festival 80 aLive Festival 51 Angus Glens Walking Festival 46 Arbroath Sea Fest 62 Arches LIVE 75 Ardrossan Music Experience 42 ARIKA13 EPISODE 1 34 ARIKA13 EPISODE 2 42 Arran Mountain Festival 41 Artmap Argyll Open Studios 69 Auchtermuchty Festival 64 Aviemore Sled Dog Rally 22 Aviemore Walking Festival 40 Aye Write! Glasgow’s Book Festival 33 Ballater Victoria Week 62 Ballater Walking Festival 41 Banchory Festival of Scottish Music 40 Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival 38 Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running 75 BBC Good Food Show Scotland 79 Behaviour 33 Belhaven Best Dunbar Traditional Music Festival 74 Bell Rock Blues Festival 68 Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival 59 Beltane Fire Festival 36 Best of the West Festival 74 Bfest 64 Big Burns Supper 22 Black Isle Words 71

Blas Festival Bloody Scotland Blue Skies Festival Bon Scott Fest Booked! Books, Borders & Bikes Bootleg Film Festival Bootstock Borders Book Festival Boswell Book Festival Brew at the Bog Burns an’ a’ that! Festival Bute Linedance Festival Callander Jazz and Blues Festival Cantilena Festival on Islay Celtic Connections Ceol Cholasa Ceolas Coast Festival Colonsay Book Festival Colonsay Festival of Spring Coloursfest Counterflows Cowalfest Crail Festival Crail Food Festival Creative Loop Student Media Festival Crieff & Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst Crieff Berry Festival Cromarty Film Festival Culross Festival Cumnock Music Festival Cupar Arts Festival Dalmellington Walking Weekend DANCE:FILM DanceLive Dare ProtoPlay Dead by Dawn, Scotland’s International Horror Film Festival Discovery Film Festival Doors Open Days Douglasdale Folk Festival Doune the Rabbit Hole Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival Dumfries Folk ‘n Ale Festival Dundead Horror Film Festival Dundee Flower and Food Festival Dundee Jazz Festival Dundee Literary Festival Dundee Mountain Film Festival Dundee Science Festival

72 73 65 38 40 66 32 72 49 41 38 42 74 76 52 22 73 54 44 34 36 46 33 76 55 51 32 79 65 84 66 48 78 68 82 78 64 34 80 70 73 69 44 55 36 71 82 80 82 82

Dundee Women’s Festival 74 Dunedin International Folk Dance Festival 56 Dunfermline Folk Weekend 80 Dunoon Film Festival 50 Early Years Festival 54 East Neuk Festival 54 Eden Festival 48 Edinburgh Art Festival 59 Edinburgh Book Fringe 64 Edinburgh Festival Fringe 62 Edinburgh Guitar & Music Festival 45 Edinburgh Independent & Radical Book Fair 81 Edinburgh International Book Festival 65 Edinburgh International Festival 65 Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace 26 Edinburgh International Film Festival 51 Edinburgh International Harp Festival 33 Edinburgh International Magic Festival 52 Edinburgh International Science Festival 32 Edinburgh Iranian Festival 23 Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival 55 Edinburgh Mela 69 Edinburgh Mountain Film Festival 78 Edinburgh World Justice Festival 81 Edinburgh’s Christmas 83 Edinburgh’s Festival of Ireland 30 Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 84 Enchanted Castle 83 Enchanted Forest 78 Encounters 82 Fabfest! 50 Faclan: The Hebridean Book Festival 81 Fauré Weekend 28 Feastren 73 Feis na Mara 76 Fèis Rois Inbhich - The Adult Fèis 37 Festival of Dangerous Ideas 50 Festival of Politics 69 Festival of Spirituality and Peace 62 Festival of the Erotic Arts 49 Fife Festival of Music 23, 45, 83 Fife Jazz Festival 23 Fife Science Festival 31 85

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Fife Traditional Singing Festival Flavour Fortnight Food on Film Fort William Mountain Festival French Film Festival Fringe by the Sea Funny in Falkirk FyneFest Galloway Music Festival Gardening Scotland Garioch Theatre Festival Girvan Traditional Folk Festival Glasgay! Glasgow Americana Glasgow Beer Week Glasgow Film Festival Glasgow International Comedy Festival Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art Glasgow Jazz Festival Glasgow Loves Christmas Glasgow Science Festival Glasgow Short Film Festival Glasgow Youth Film Festival Glasgow’s St Patrick’s Festival Glenfarg Folk Feast goNORTH Creative Industries Festival Great Outdoors Festival Guardian Edinburgh International Television Festival Guildtown Bluegrass Music Festival HAAR Festival Haddington Festival Haddo Arts Festival Happyness Comedy Festival Harris Arts Festival Hebridean Celtic Festival Helensburgh & Lomond Real Ale Festival Highland Perthshire Cycling Festival Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival Hippodrome Festival of Silent Cinema Hispanic Festival Horsecross Youth Arts Festival Huntly Hairst – Food and Farming Festival Inky Fingers Minifest Innerleithen Music Festival 86

SFG13-Index 85-93 .indd 86

38 70 23 27 82 64 59 50 30 46 54 37 78 76 83 26 31 36 52 84 48 26 26 30 33 48 70 68 55 70 42 78 41 59 55 41 37 36 31 82 48 72 64 66

Insider Festival 52 International Metaphysical Film Festival 80 Inverness Book Festival 64 Inverness Film Festival 82 Inverness Music Festival 28 Inverness Whisky Festival 33 Irvine Valley Walking Festival 41 Islay Book Festival 72 Islay Sessions 82 Isle of Bute Jazz Festival 37 Isle of Gigha Music Festival 52 Isle of Jura Music Festival 75 Isle of Skye Accordion and Fiddle Festival 42 Italian Film Festival Scotland 33 Kelburn Garden Party 54 Kelso Country and Western Festival 38 Kilmarnock Edition Festival 24 Kilmarnock Fair Festival 54 Kintyre Songwriters Festival 46 Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival 50 Knockengorroch World Ceilidh 42 Knoydart Festival 36 Lagavulin Islay Jazz Festival 73 Lammermuir Festival 73 Lanark Music Connections 69 Largs Viking Festival 70 Leith Festival 48 LeithLate 52 Lennoxlove Book Festival 83 Les-Fest 2 52 Live@Troon 71 Loanhead Music Festival 50 Loch Fyne Food Fair 41 Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival 74 Loch Lomond Quilt Show 40 Loch Ness Film Festival 56 Loch Shiel Spring Festival 37 Lochinch Castle Summer Art Festival 56 Lockerbie Jazz Festival 75 Lomond Folk Festival 56 Loopallu 74 Lorn Drama Festival 31 Luminate: Scotland’s Creative Ageing Festival 76 Manipulate Visual Theatre festival 24 Margins Book and Music Festival 46, 79 Marymass Festival 65 Mauchline Holy Fair 44

Mayfesto 36 McLellan Arts Festival 70 Meadows Festival 46 Mendelssohn on Mull 54 Middle Eastern Film Festival 26 Moniaive Michaelmas Bluegrass Festival 75 Montrose Music Festival 44 Moray Walking Festival 51 Mull of Kintyre Music Festival 68 Music at Paxton 56 Music for Youth: National Festival Scotland 49 Music for Youth: Scottish Regional Festival Series 26, 27, 28, 30 Music Language 71 Nairn Book and Arts Festival 71 NEoN Digital Arts Festival 82 New Words 71 Newton Stewart Walking Festival 38 Niel Gow Annual Scottish Fiddle Festival 32 Northern Nashville Caithness Country Music Festival 32 Northern Roots Music Festival 46 Northern Streams 34 Ochils Festival 48 Off the Page Stirling Book Festival 73 On the Rocks 33 Orkney Folk Festival 42 Orkney Jazz Festival 34 Orkney Storytelling Festival 80 Papay Gyro Nights 27 Peebles Arts Festival 69 Peebles Beltane Festival 51 Perth All Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival 78 Perth Festival of the Arts 41 Perthshire Amber Festival 80 Piping Live! 65 Pittenweem Arts Festival 62 Play Poland Film Festival 76 previously... Scotland’s History Festival 82 Puppet Animation Festival 32 Refugee Week Scotland 51 Rewind Scotland: The 80s Festival 56 RockNess 48 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 62 Royal Highland Show 51 Royal National Mod 79 Ruthven Parish Festival 48 Sail and Oar Festival on Cumbrae 64 LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Saltire Samhuinn Fire Festival Scotland Loves Anime Scotland’s Countryside Festival Scotland’s Festival of History Scots Fiddle Festival: Fiddle 2013 Scottish Borders Walking Festival Scottish Cheese Festival Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Once Upon a Journey Scottish Six Days Trial Scottish Snowdrop Festival Scottish Traditional Boat Festival Screenplay Scribbler’s Picnic Septembayr Shetland Blues Festival Shetland Fiddle Frenzy Shetland Folk Festival Shetland Jazz Festival Shetland Nature Festival Shetland Wool Week Skye Storytelling Festival and Glendale Gathering Snowdrops by Starlight Solas Festival Sonica sound Southern Fried Festival Southside Film Festival Speyfest Spirit of Moray Book Festival Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Spirit of Stirling Whisky Festival Spree Spring Fling St Andrew’s Festival St Andrews Voices St Magnus International Festival St Monans Community Arts Festival St Monans Sea Queen Day StAnza: Scotland’s Poetry Festival Stonehaven Folk Festival Stowed Out Stranraer RNLI Park Fest Strichen Surge T in the Park Take One Action Film Festival Takeaway China Tarbert Music Festival

82 81 79 58 66 82 70 34 73 79 37 24 52 70 40 71 73 62 36 26 52 78 51 26 52 83 80 55 40 56 74 37 40 79 45 83 79 51 76 52 30 54 66 68 41 56 55 74 26 74

Tarbert Seafood Festival Tartan Day Angus Tartan Day East Renfrewshire Taste Ayrshire Food Festival TechFest in September Tiree Music Festival TMSA Keith Festival Torridon Real Ale Festival Torridon Walking Festival Torridon Winter Walking Festival Tradfest Traquair Castle of Magic Traquair Fair TT16 Turing Festival Tweed Valley Forest Festival TweedLove Bike Festival UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Fort William Ugie Folk Festival Ullapool Book Festival Ullapool Dance Festival Ullapool Guitar Festival University of Aberdeen May Festival Unsolved Festival UnstFest Up Helly Aa Voluntary Arts Week Walk Islay Wee Dub Festival West End Festival Whisky An’ A’ That Wickerman Festival Wigtown Book Festival Wild Lochaber Festival Wild Spring Winter Words WinterWeek Wordplay World Oceans Week Celebrations World Pipe Band Championships Young at Heart Festival

54 32 33 70 73 56 50 76 79 30 34 80 59 66 68 79 45

80 59 83 78 50 36 40 56 82 62 26 83 80 45 26

COMEDY 48 58 38 30 76 38 80 54 23 40 33 23 46 46 56 75 41 33 22 27 76 48 66 31

GENRE ART Alchemy Film and Moving Image Festival Arches LIVE Artmap Argyll Open Studios Coast Festival Cupar Arts Festival

Discovery Film Festival Edinburgh Art Festival Enchanted Castle Enchanted Forest Fabfest! Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art Loch Lomond Quilt Show Lochinch Castle Summer Art Festival NEoN Digital Arts Festival Pittenweem Arts Festival Snowdrops by Starlight Sonica sound Spring Fling Takeaway China

80 75 69 44 78

Funny in Falkirk Glasgow International Comedy Festival Happyness Comedy Festival Live@Troon

59 31 41 71

COMMUNITY Aberdeenshire Celebrates! African Drum Festival aLive Festival Arbroath Sea Fest Ballater Victoria Week Best of the West Festival Bfest Crail Festival Crieff Berry Festival Culross Festival Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace Edinburgh Mela Edinburgh’s Christmas Encounters Glasgow Loves Christmas Huntly Hairst – Food and Farming Festival Lanark Music Connections Leith Festival Luminate: Scotland’s Creative Ageing Festival Mauchline Holy Fair Meadows Festival Middle Eastern Film Festival Ochils Festival

26 59 51 62 62 74 64 55 65 66

26 69 83 82 84 72 69 48 76 44 46 26 48 87

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Orkney Storytelling Festival Peebles Beltane Festival Refugee Week Scotland Septembayr Spree St Monans Community Arts Festival St Monans Sea Queen Day Voluntary Arts Week West End Festival WinterWeek Young at Heart Festival

80 51 51 71 79 76 52 40 46 27 31

FILM & TV 48 Hour Film Project Africa in Motion Film Festival Alchemy Film and Moving Image Festival Bootleg Film Festival Creative Loop Student Media Festival Cromarty Film Festival DANCE:FILM Dead by Dawn, Scotland’s International Horror Film Festival Discovery Film Festival Dundead Horror Film Festival Dundee Mountain Film Festival Dunoon Film Festival Edinburgh International Film Festival Edinburgh Mountain Film Festival Food on Film Fort William Mountain Festival French Film Festival Glasgow Film Festival Glasgow Short Film Festival Glasgow Youth Film Festival Guardian Edinburgh International Television Festival Hippodrome Festival of Silent Cinema International Metaphysical Film Festival Inverness Film Festival Italian Film Festival Scotland Loch Ness Film Festival Middle Eastern Film Festival Play Poland Film Festival Scotland Loves Anime Screenplay Southside Film Festival Take One Action Film Festival 88

SFG13-Index 85-93 .indd 88

46, 81 81 80 32 32 84 82 34 80 36 82 50 51 78 23 27 82 26 26 26

TT16

FOOD & DRINK A Taste of Angus Festival Aberdeen & North East CAMRA Beer Festival Arbroath Sea Fest BBC Good Food Show Scotland Brew at the Bog Colonsay Festival of Spring Crail Food Festival Crieff Berry Festival Dumfries Folk ‘n Ale Festival Dundee Flower and Food Festival Feastren Flavour Fortnight Food on Film FyneFest Glasgow Beer Week Helensburgh & Lomond Real Ale Festival Huntly Hairst – Food and Farming Festival Inverness Whisky Festival Loch Fyne Food Fair Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival Royal Highland Show Scotland’s Countryside Festival Scottish Cheese Festival Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Spirit of Stirling Whisky Festival Tarbert Seafood Festival Taste Ayrshire Food Festival Torridon Real Ale Festival Whisky An’ A’ That

70 45 62 79 38 36 51 65 55 71 73 70 23 50 83 41 72 33 41 74 51 58 34 73 37 40 54 70 76 46

31 80 82 33 56 26 76 79 70 40 74

31 33 70 65 44 70 26 27 51 78 65 82 62 51 79 82 81 66 79 78 51 83 52 41 32 33 34 80 23 27

LITERATURE HERITAGE

Hippodrome Festival of Silent Cinema Inverness Whisky Festival Largs Viking Festival Marymass Festival Mauchline Holy Fair McLellan Arts Festival Middle Eastern Film Festival Papay Gyro Nights Peebles Beltane Festival Perth All Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival Piping Live! previously... Scotland’s History Festival Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Royal Highland Show Royal National Mod Saltire Samhuinn Fire Festival Scotland’s Festival of History Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Once Upon a Journey Shetland Wool Week Skye Storytelling Festival and Glendale Gathering St Andrew’s Festival St Monans Sea Queen Day Strichen Tartan Day Angus Tartan Day East Renfrewshire Tradfest Unsolved Festival Up Helly Aa WinterWeek

Active Aboyne Ballater Victoria Week Beltane Fire Festival Big Burns Supper Burns an’ a’ that! Festival Colonsay Festival of Spring Cowalfest Crieff & Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst Doors Open Days Fife Traditional Singing Festival Glasgow’s St Patrick’s Festival HAAR Festival Hebridean Celtic Festival

74 62 36 22 42 36 76 79 70 38 30 70 55

Aye Write! Glasgow’s Book Festival Black Isle Words Bloody Scotland Booked! Books, Borders & Bikes Borders Book Festival Boswell Book Festival Colonsay Book Festival Dundee Literary Festival Edinburgh Book Fringe Edinburgh Independent & Radical Book Fair Edinburgh International Book Festival

33 71 73 40 66 49 41 34 80 64 81 65

LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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Faclan: The Hebridean Book Festival 81 Inky Fingers Minifest 64 Inverness Book Festival 64 Islay Book Festival 72 Lennoxlove Book Festival 83 Margins Book and Music Festival 46, 79 New Words 71 Off the Page Stirling Book Festival 73 Orkney Storytelling Festival 80 Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Once Upon a Journey 79 Skye Storytelling Festival and Glendale Gathering 51 Spirit of Moray Book Festival 74 StAnza: Scotland’s Poetry Festival 30 Ullapool Book Festival 38 Wigtown Book Festival 75 Winter Words 22 Wordplay 76

MULTI-ARTS Aberdeen International Youth Festival Aberdeenshire Celebrates! Aboyne and Deeside Festival ARIKA13 EPISODE 1 ARIKA13 EPISODE 2 Big Burns Supper Blas Festival Blue Skies Festival Burns an’ a’ that! Festival Crail Festival Culross Festival Cumnock Music Festival Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival Dundee Women’s Festival Early Years Festival East Neuk Festival Edinburgh Festival Fringe Edinburgh International Festival Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace Edinburgh Iranian Festival Edinburgh Mela Edinburgh’s Festival of Ireland Encounters Fabfest! Festival of Dangerous Ideas Festival of Spirituality and Peace

58 26 59 34 42 22 72 65 42 55 66 48 44 74 54 54 62 65

26 23 69 30 82 50 50 62

Festival of the Erotic Arts 49 Fringe by the Sea 64 Glasgay! 78 goNORTH Creative Industries Festival 48 Haddington Festival 42 Haddo Arts Festival 78 Harris Arts Festival 59 Hispanic Festival 82 Knoydart Festival 36 Leith Festival 48 LeithLate 52 Luminate: Scotland’s Creative Ageing Festival 76 McLellan Arts Festival 70 Meadows Festival 46 Nairn Book and Arts Festival 71 On the Rocks 33 Papay Gyro Nights 27 Peebles Arts Festival 69 Perth Festival of the Arts 41 previously... Scotland’s History Festival 82 Refugee Week Scotland 51 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 62 Saltire 82 Septembayr 71 Solas Festival 52 Spree 79 St Magnus International Festival 51 St Monans Community Arts Festival 76 Strichen 41 Tradfest 34 Traquair Fair 59 University of Aberdeen May Festival 38 UnstFest 54 Voluntary Arts Week 40 West End Festival 46 Young at Heart Festival 31

MUSIC Aberdeen Jazz Festival African Drum Festival aLive Festival Ardrossan Music Experience Auchtermuchty Festival Banchory Festival of Scottish Music Belhaven Best Dunbar Traditional Music Festival Bell Rock Blues Festival Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival Bfest Bon Scott Fest

31 59 51 42 64 40 74 68 59 64 38

Bootstock 72 Brew at the Bog 38 Bute Linedance Festival 74 Callander Jazz and Blues Festival 76 Cantilena Festival on Islay 52 Celtic Connections 22 Ceol Cholasa 73 Ceolas 54 Coloursfest 46 Counterflows 33 Cumnock Music Festival 48 Douglasdale Folk Festival 73 Doune the Rabbit Hole 69 Dumfries Folk ‘n Ale Festival 55 Dundee Jazz Festival 82 Dunfermline Folk Weekend 80 Eden Festival 48 Edinburgh Guitar & Music Festival 45 Edinburgh International Harp Festival 33 Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival 55 Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 84 Fauré Weekend 28 Feis na Mara 76 Fèis Rois Inbhich - The Adult Fèis 37 Fife Festival of Music 23, 45, 83 Fife Jazz Festival 23 Fife Traditional Singing Festival 38 FyneFest 50 Galloway Music Festival 30 Gardening Scotland 46 Girvan Traditional Folk Festival 37 Glasgow Americana 76 Glasgow Jazz Festival 52 Glasgow’s St Patrick’s Festival 30 Glenfarg Folk Feast 33 Guildtown Bluegrass Music Festival 55 Hebridean Celtic Festival 55 Helensburgh & Lomond Real Ale Festival 41 Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival 36 Horsecross Youth Arts Festival 48 Innerleithen Music Festival 66 Insider Festival 52 Inverness Music Festival 28 Inverness Whisky Festival 33 Islay Sessions 82 Isle of Bute Jazz Festival 37 Isle of Gigha Music Festival 52 Isle of Jura Music Festival 75

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Isle of Skye Accordion and Fiddle Festival 42 Kelburn Garden Party 54 Kelso Country and Western Festival 38 Kilmarnock Edition Festival 24 Kilmarnock Fair Festival 54 Kintyre Songwriters Festival 46 Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival 50 Knockengorroch World Ceilidh 42 Lagavulin Islay Jazz Festival 73 Lammermuir Festival 73 Lanark Music Connections 69 Les-Fest 2 52 Live@Troon 71 Loanhead Music Festival 50 Loch Fyne Food Fair 41 Loch Shiel Spring Festival 37 Lockerbie Jazz Festival 75 Lomond Folk Festival 56 Loopallu 74 Margins Book and Music Festival 46, 79 Mendelssohn on Mull 54 Moniaive Michaelmas Bluegrass Festival 75 Montrose Music Festival 44 Mull of Kintyre Music Festival 68 Music at Paxton 56 Music for Youth: National Festival Scotland 49 Music for Youth: Scottish Regional Festival Series 26, 27, 28, 30 Music Language 71 Niel Gow Annual Scottish Fiddle Festival 32 Northern Nashville Caithness Country Music Festival 32 Northern Roots Music Festival 46 Northern Streams 34 Orkney Folk Festival 42 Orkney Jazz Festival 34 Perth All Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival 78 Perthshire Amber Festival 80 Piping Live! 65 Rewind Scotland: The 80s Festival 56 RockNess 48 Ruthven Parish Festival 48 Scots Fiddle Festival: Fiddle 2013 82 Scribbler’s Picnic 40 Shetland Blues Festival 73 Shetland Fiddle Frenzy 62 Shetland Folk Festival 36 Shetland Jazz Festival 26 90

SFG13-Index 85-93 .indd 90

Skye Storytelling Festival and Glendale Gathering Sonica sound Southern Fried Festival Speyfest St Andrew’s Festival St Andrews Voices St Magnus International Festival Stonehaven Folk Festival Stowed Out Stranraer RNLI Park Fest T in the Park Tarbert Music Festival Tiree Music Festival TMSA Keith Festival UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Fort William Ugie Folk Festival Ullapool Guitar Festival Wee Dub Festival Wickerman Festival World Pipe Band Championships

51 83 80 55 56 83 79 51 54 66 68 55 74 56 50 48 58 76 23 56 66

OUTDOOR Active Aboyne Angus Glens Walking Festival Arran Mountain Festival Aviemore Sled Dog Rally Aviemore Walking Festival Ballater Walking Festival Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running Beltane Fire Festival Books, Borders & Bikes Colonsay Festival of Spring Cowalfest Crieff & Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst Dalmellington Walking Weekend Dundee Mountain Film Festival Enchanted Castle Enchanted Forest Fort William Mountain Festival Gardening Scotland Great Outdoors Festival Highland Perthshire Cycling Festival Irvine Valley Walking Festival Knoydart Festival Moray Walking Festival Newton Stewart Walking Festival Ochils Festival Sail and Oar Festival on Cumbrae

74 46 41 22 40 41 75 36 66 36 76 79 68 82 83 78 27 46 70 37 41 36 51 38 48 64

Scotland’s Countryside Festival Scottish Borders Walking Festival Scottish Six Days Trial Scottish Snowdrop Festival Scottish Traditional Boat Festival Shetland Nature Festival Snowdrops by Starlight Torridon Walking Festival Torridon Winter Walking Festival Tweed Valley Forest Festival TweedLove Bike Festival UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Fort William Walk Islay Wild Lochaber Festival Wild Spring World Oceans Week Celebrations

58 70 37 24 52 52 26 79 30 79 45 48 33 41 33 48

POLITICS ARIKA13 EPISODE 1 ARIKA13 EPISODE 2 Dundee Women’s Festival Edinburgh Book Fringe Edinburgh Independent & Radical Book Fair Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace Edinburgh World Justice Festival Festival of Politics Festival of Spirituality and Peace Solas Festival Take One Action Film Festival

34 42 74 64 81

26 81 69 62 52 74

SCIENCE Dare ProtoPlay Dundee Science Festival Edinburgh International Science Festival Festival of Dangerous Ideas Fife Science Festival Glasgow Science Festival NEoN Digital Arts Festival TechFest in September Turing Festival

64 82 32 50 31 48 82 73 68

THEATRE & DANCE Arches LIVE Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival Behaviour Beltane Fire Festival Bute Linedance Festival

75 38 33 36 74

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DANCE:FILM DanceLive Dunedin International Folk Dance Festival Edinburgh International Magic Festival Garioch Theatre Festival Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival Horsecross Youth Arts Festival Lorn Drama Festival Manipulate Visual Theatre festival Mayfesto Northern Streams Puppet Animation Festival Samhuinn Fire Festival Sonica Surge Traquair Castle of Magic Ullapool Dance Festival

82 78 56 52 54 36 48 31 24 36 34 32 81 83 56 80 30

LOCATION The numbered order of the following areas corresponds to the map on pages 94–95.

1. SCOTTISH BORDERS Alchemy Film and Moving Image Festival Books, Borders & Bikes Borders Book Festival Innerleithen Music Festival Kelso Country and Western Festival Music at Paxton Peebles Arts Festival Peebles Beltane Festival Scottish Borders Walking Festival Stowed Out Festival Traquair Castle of Magic Traquair Fair Tweed Valley Forest Festival TweedLove Bike Festival

80 66 49 66 38 56 69 51 70 66 80 59 79 45

2. AYRSHIRE Ardrossan Music Experience Arran Mountain Festival Boswell Book Festival Burns an’ a’ that! Festival Cumnock Music Festival Dalmellington Walking Weekend Girvan Traditional Folk Festival

42 41 41 42 48 68 37

Irvine Valley Walking Festival Kelburn Garden Party Kilmarnock Edition Festival Kilmarnock Fair Festival Largs Viking Festival Live@Troon Marymass Festival Mauchline Holy Fair McLellan Arts Festival Sail and Oar Festival on Cumbrae Scottish Cheese Festival Septembayr Taste Ayrshire Food Festival Whisky An’ A’ That

41 54 24 54 70 71 65 44 70 64 34 71 70 46

3. DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY Big Burns Supper Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival Dumfries Folk ‘n Ale Festival Eden Festival Flavour Fortnight Galloway Music Festival Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival Knockengorroch World Ceilidh Lochinch Castle Summer Art Festival Lockerbie Jazz Festival Moniaive Michaelmas Bluegrass Festival Music for Youth: Scottish Regional Festival Series Newton Stewart Walking Festival Spring Fling Stranraer RNLI Park Fest Wickerman Festival Wigtown Book Festival Wild Spring World Oceans Week Celebrations

22 44 55 48 70 30 50 42 56 75 75 26 38 45 68 56 75 33 48

4. EDINBURGH & LOTHIANS 48 Hour Film Project Africa in Motion Film Festival Bank of Scotland Imaginate Festival Belhaven Best Dunbar Traditional Music Festival Beltane Fire Festival Bootleg Film Festival DANCE:FILM Dead by Dawn, Scotland’s International Horror Film Festival

46 81 38 74 36 32 82 34

Edinburgh Art Festival Edinburgh Book Fringe Edinburgh Festival Fringe Edinburgh Guitar & Music Festival Edinburgh Independent & Radical Book Fair Edinburgh International Book Festival Edinburgh International Festival Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace Edinburgh International Film Festival Edinburgh International Harp Festival Edinburgh International Magic Festival Edinburgh International Science Festival Edinburgh Iranian Festival Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival Edinburgh Mela Edinburgh Mountain Film Festival Edinburgh World Justice Festival Edinburgh’s Christmas Edinburgh’s Festival of Ireland Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival of Politics Festival of Spirituality and Peace Festival of the Erotic Arts Fringe by the Sea Gardening Scotland Guardian Edinburgh International Television Festival Haddington Festival Hispanic Festival Hippodrome Festival of Silent Cinema Inky Fingers Minifest Lammermuir Festival Leith Festival LeithLate Lennoxlove Book Festival Loanhead Music Festival Manipulate Visual Theatre festival Meadows Festival Middle Eastern Film Festival Music for Youth: Scottish Regional Festival Series Northern Streams Play Poland Film Festival previously... Scotland’s History Festival Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

59 64 62 45 81 65 65

26 51 33 52 32 23 55 69 78 81 83 30 84 69 62 49 64 46 68 42 82 31 64 73 48 52 83 50 24 46 26 28 34 76 82 62 91

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Royal Highland Show Saltire Samhuinn Fire Festival Scotland Loves Anime Scots Fiddle Festival: Fiddle 2013 Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Once Upon a Journey Take One Action Film Festival Tradfest Turing Festival Wee Dub Festival

51 82 81 79 82 79 74 34 68 23

5. GREATER GLASGOW 48 Hour Film Project Africa in Motion Film Festival Arches LIVE ARIKA13 EPISODE 1 ARIKA13 EPISODE 2 Aye Write! Glasgow’s Book Festival BBC Good Food Show Scotland Behaviour Booked! Celtic Connections Coloursfest Counterflows Creative Loop Student Media Festival Douglasdale Folk Festival Early Years Festival Encounters Feastren Glasgay! Glasgow Americana Glasgow Beer Week Glasgow Film Festival Glasgow International Comedy Festival Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art Glasgow Jazz Festival Glasgow Loves Christmas Glasgow Science Festival Glasgow Short Film Festival Glasgow Youth Film Festival Glasgow’s St Patrick’s Festival Lanark Music Connections Les-Fest 2 Margins Book and Music Festival Mayfesto Music for Youth: Scottish Regional Festival Series 92

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81 81 75 34 42 33 79 33 40 22 46 33 32 73 54 82 73 78 76 83 26 31 36 52 84 48 26 26 30 69 52 79 36 27

Music Language Piping Live! Play Poland Film Festival Royal National Mod Scotland Loves Anime Scotland’s Festival of History Sonica Southside Film Festival Spree Surge Takeaway China Tartan Day East Renfrewshire West End Festival World Pipe Band Championships Young at Heart Festival

71 65 76 79 79 66 83 40 79 56 26 33 46 66 31

6. ARGYLL & THE ISLES Artmap Argyll Open Studios Best of the West Festival Bute Linedance Festival Cantilena Festival on Islay Ceol Cholasa Colonsay Book Festival Colonsay Festival of Spring Cowalfest Dunoon Film Festival FyneFest Helensburgh & Lomond Real Ale Festival Highlands and Islands Music and Dance Festival International Metaphysical Film Festival Islay Book Festival Islay Sessions Isle of Bute Jazz Festival Isle of Gigha Music Festival Isle of Jura Music Festival Kintyre Songwriters Festival Lagavulin Islay Jazz Festival Loch Fyne Food Fair Lorn Drama Festival Mendelssohn on Mull Mull of Kintyre Music Festival Tarbert Music Festival Tarbert Seafood Festival Tiree Music Festival TT16 Walk Islay

7. STIRLING, LOCH LOMOND AND THE

69 74 74 52 73 34 36 76 50 50 41 36 80 72 82 37 52 75 46 73 41 31 54 68 74 54 56 66 33

TROSSACHS Bloody Scotland Callander Jazz and Blues Festival Fabfest! Funny in Falkirk Great Outdoors Festival Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival Loch Lomond Quilt Show Lomond Folk Festival Off the Page Stirling Book Festival Scribbler’s Picnic Spirit of Stirling Whisky Festival

73 76 50 59 70 74 40 56 73 40 40

8. PERTHSHIRE, ANGUS & DUNDEE A Taste of Angus Festival 70 African Drum Festival 59 Angus Glens Walking Festival 46 Arbroath Sea Fest 62 Bell Rock Blues Festival 68 Blue Skies Festival 65 Bon Scott Fest 38 Crieff & Strathearn Drovers’ Tryst 79 Crieff Berry Festival 65 Dare ProtoPlay 64 Discovery Film Festival 80 Dundead Horror Film Festival 36 Dundee Flower and Food Festival 71 Dundee Jazz Festival 82 Dundee Literary Festival 80 Dundee Mountain Film Festival 82 Dundee Science Festival 82 Dundee Women’s Festival 74 Enchanted Forest 78 Fauré Weekend 28 Glenfarg Folk Feast 33 Guildtown Bluegrass Music Festival 55 HAAR Festival 70 Highland Perthshire Cycling Festival 37 Horsecross Youth Arts Festival 48 Montrose Music Festival 44 Music for Youth: National Festival Scotland 49 NEoN Digital Arts Festival 82 Niel Gow Annual Scottish Fiddle Festival 32 Ochils Festival 48 Perth All Scotland Accordion and Fiddle Festival 78 Perth Festival of the Arts 41 Perthshire Amber Festival 80 Rewind Scotland: The 80s Festival 56 LIST.CO.UK/FESTIVALS

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2013 THE GUIDE TO SCOTLAND’S FESTIVALS

Ruthven Parish Festival Scotland’s Countryside Festival Solas Festival Southern Fried Festival T in the Park Tartan Day Angus Winter Words WinterWeek

48 58 52 55 55 32 22 27

New Words Scottish Traditional Boat Festival sound Stonehaven Folk Festival Strichen TechFest in September Ugie Folk Festival University of Aberdeen May Festival Unsolved Festival

71 52 80 54 41 73 58 38 80

9. FIFE Auchtermuchty Festival 64 Crail Festival 55 Crail Food Festival 51 Culross Festival 66 Cupar Arts Festival 78 Dunfermline Folk Weekend 80 East Neuk Festival 54 Fife Festival of Music 23, 45, 83 Fife Jazz Festival 23 Fife Science Festival 31 Fife Traditional Singing Festival 38 On the Rocks 33 Pittenweem Arts Festival 62 Snowdrops by Starlight 26 St Andrew’s Festival 83 St Andrews Voices 79 St Monans Community Arts Festival 76 St Monans Sea Queen Day 52 StAnza: Scotland’s Poetry Festival 30

10. ABERDEEN & GRAMPIAN Aberdeen & North East CAMRA Beer Festival Aberdeen International Youth Festival Aberdeen Jazz Festival Aberdeenshire Celebrates! Aboyne and Deeside Festival Active Aboyne Ballater Victoria Week Ballater Walking Festival Banchory Festival of Scottish Music Bfest Coast Festival DanceLive Enchanted Castle Garioch Theatre Festival Haddo Arts Festival Huntly Hairst – Food and Farming Festival Margins Book and Music Festival

45 58 31 26 59 74 62 41 40 64 44 78 83 54 78 72 46

11. HIGHLANDS aLive Festival Aviemore Sled Dog Rally Aviemore Walking Festival Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival Black Isle Words Blas Festival Bootstock Brew at the Bog Cromarty Film Festival Feis na Mara Fèis Rois Inbhich - The Adult Fèis Food on Film Fort William Mountain Festival goNORTH Creative Industries Festival Happyness Comedy Festival Insider Festival Inverness Book Festival Inverness Film Festival Inverness Music Festival Inverness Whisky Festival Isle of Skye Accordion and Fiddle Festival Knoydart Festival Loch Ness Film Festival Loch Shiel Spring Festival Loopallu Moray Walking Festival Music for Youth: Scottish Regional Festival Series Nairn Book and Arts Festival Northern Nashville Caithness Country Music Festival Northern Roots Music Festival RockNess Scottish Six Days Trial Skye Storytelling Festival and Glendale Gathering Speyfest

51 22 40 75 59 71 72 72 38 84 76 37 23 27

Spirit of Moray Book Festival Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival TMSA Keith Festival Torridon Real Ale Festival Torridon Walking Festival Torridon Winter Walking Festival UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Fort William Ullapool Book Festival Ullapool Dance Festival Ullapool Guitar Festival Wild Lochaber Festival

74 37 50 76 79 30 48 38 30 76 41

12. OUTER HEBRIDES Ceolas Faclan: The Hebridean Book Festival Harris Arts Festival Hebridean Celtic Festival

54 81 59 55

13. ORKNEY Orkney Folk Festival Orkney Jazz Festival Orkney Storytelling Festival Papay Gyro Nights St Magnus International Festival

42 34 80 27 51

14. SHETLAND 48 41 52 64 82 28 33 42 36 56 37 74 51 30 71 32 46 48 37 51 56

Screenplay Shetland Blues Festival Shetland Fiddle Frenzy Shetland Folk Festival Shetland Jazz Festival Shetland Nature Festival Shetland Wool Week UnstFest Up Helly Aa Wordplay

70 73 62 36 26 52 78 54 23 76

SCOTLAND-WIDE Doors Open Days Dunedin International Folk Dance Festival Festival of Dangerous Ideas French Film Festival Italian Film Festival Scotland Luminate: Scotland’s Creative Ageing Festival Puppet Animation Festival Refugee Week Scotland Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight Scottish Snowdrop Festival Voluntary Arts Week

70 56 50 82 33 76 32 51 73 24 40 93

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OUTER HEBRIDES

LEWIS

Stornoway

Durness

ORKNEY

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Information Centres

VisitScotland Information Centres have details of everything to see and do in Scotland. What’s more we can book tickets for events, activities and attractions, arrange transport and find accommodation anywhere in the country. So whatever you’re looking for, there’s only one place to go.

Find all you want to do in Scotland, in one place.

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SHETLAND Lerwick

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8 9 10 11 12 13 14

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Oban

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PERTH

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Southwaite

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ABERDEEN

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INVERNESS

Scottish Borders 6 7 Stirling Ayrshire Dumfries & Galloway GLASGOW Edinburgh & Lothians Greater Glasgow Bowmore 5 Argyll & the Isles Brodick Stirling, Loch Lomond & Campbeltown 2 the Trossachs Ayr Perthshire, Angus & Dundee 3 Fife Aberdeen & Grampian Dumfries Highlands Stranraer Outer Hebrides Orkney Shetland

Craignure

Portree

A FESTIVAL NATION, EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR From niche events spotlighting local talent, to internationally recognised showcases that draw crowds of thousands, there are over 400 different festivals held throughout the year and across the country. Here at Creative Scotland we’re committed to supporting both new and established festivals, developing and nurturing Scotland’s fantastic festival scene. Find out more about who we are and what we do at www.creativescotland.com © Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, photograph Chris Scott

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