FamiliesFifeTaysideCrieffNovDec2018Issue52

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IN THIS ISSUE Christmas special! ❄ Bumper What’s On WIN! New Christmas DVD ❄ WIN! Family theatre tickets Issue 52 November/December 2018

familiesonline.co.uk

Hello Families!

Or, should I say… season’s greetings?! I’m already feeling so festive having prepared this very Christmassy issue for you all and the big day won’t be long in coming around! It’s such a magical time of year for families and there are plenty of opportunities over the next few weeks to make some festive memories to last a lifetime.

I know that our calendar is already filling up with all the markets, street celebrations, pantos, and craft sessions… not to mention a visit to see Santa himself! Before I wish Autumn away, though, for Guy Fawkes’ Night there are lots of brilliant fireworks displays to choose from, and even a firework-free bonfire event at Cambo if the noisy displays aren’t your thing.

The eagle-eyed among you may have already spotted that Families Fife, Tayside & Crieff magazine is looking for a new editor.

Could it be you?! Get in touch if you’re interested. I have loved my time in the role, and envisaged doing this for quite some time, but changes to Mr Editor’s job mean that my time is much more limited now and it’s time to hand over to someone new. Spread the word!

Enjoy all the lovely events and celebrations over the coming weeks, keep safe with fireworks if you’re around them and stay cosy as the nights draw in. And, because I can’t resist, Happy Christmas when it comes!

Rachel xx

Contents

News

3-4

✱ News from around the area

Parent to Parent

5

✱ Meet Fife Mum of 3, Julie Otto

Christmas Special

✱ Where to find Santa ✱ Indoor fun, Christmas Lights, WIN! Festive DVD ✱ Pantos & Shows WIN! Family Tickets

6-9 6 7 8-9

Clubs, Classes & Workshops Directory Out and About ✱ Round up of events in November & December

Contact us Editor: Rachel Davidson editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 07736 328233 Follow us on facebook: families fife magazine Design: Sarah Harmer Printer: Warwick Printers

10 10-15

is looking for a new editor in 2019!

See below for details.

Families Fife, Tayside and Crieff is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Fife, Tayside and Crieff are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Familie Fife, Tayside and Crieff. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Fife, Tayside and Crieff, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Copyright Families Fife, Tayside and Crieff November/December 2018.

COULD YOU BE THE NEXT EDITOR OF FAMILIES FIFE, TAYSIDE & CRIEFF? 2019 is our 9th year in print and we are looking for a new Editor to take the reins.

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IN THIS ISSUE Christmas special! ❄ Bumper What’s On WIN! New Christmas DVD ❄ WIN! Family theatre tickets Issue 52 November/December 2018

familiesonline.co.uk

The Fife, Tayside and Crieff edition of Families magazine is part of a successful franchise group with 39 editions around the UK. Knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the local area and what’s on for families. ● Experience or interest in sales, marketing and advertising. ● Want to run your own business from home, working flexible hours. ● Want to help local businesses connect with local parents and be a trusted voice for the communities in and around your area. ●

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU NEED?

To find out more or register your interest in Families Fife, Tayside & Crieff, email editor@familiesfife.co.uk 2 Families Fife

Competition Terms and Conditions Details for each individual competition are set out on the relevant competition page but the following also apply: 1. Competitions are open to residents of the UK, aged 18 years or over.

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13. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions.

14. The competition is free to enter and no purchase is necessary 15. Promoter Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, England SL8 5TD United Kingdom 16. The prize draw is governed by English law and disputes will be dealt with by the English courts. www.familiesfife.co.uk

NEWS Roundup from Lauriston Nursery

Roundup from Lauriston Nursery Lauriston Nursery @ Kinross have very much enjoyed their summer, growing flowers and vegetables in the garden and watching the bugs that have been encouraged into our space. We were fascinated by our hairy visitors and the way they wiggled. We rolled around the grass copying their wriggly movements then jumped up to fly away like butterflies. We went to the library to find books about our furry friends and their lifecycle. We incorporated this into our room interest by watching a caterpillar inside our

Top family fun at Tabletop Scotland Out of the egg came a tiny and very hungry caterpillar!

net going through the stages of metamorphosis before we released our beautiful big butterfly. We are looking forward to the autumn and all that it brings: Halloween, Bonfire night and walks in the woods all wrapped up, crunching leaves and looking for cones, conkers and acorns.

‘Out of the egg came a tiny and very hungry caterpillar!’

Lauriston Nursery @ Kinross have very much enjoyed their summer, growing flowers and vegetables in the garden and watching the bugs that have been encouraged into our space. We were fascinated by our hairy visitors and the way they wiggled. We rolled around the grass copying their wriggly movements then jumped up to fly away like butterflies. We went to the library to find books about our furry friends and their lifecycle. We incorporated this into our room interest by watching a caterpillar inside our net going through the stages of metamorphosis before we released our beautiful big butterfly. We are looking forward to the autumn and all that it brings: Halloween, Bonfire night and walks in the woods all wrapped up, crunching leaves and looking for cone, conkers and acorns.

‘Instructions Not Supplied’ Julie Otto is a professional golfer, based in Fife, who has represented her country in international events.

After adopting 3 young boys, she and her husband, Steve, quickly discovered that their children were different from others, and not just because they were adopted.

‘Instructions Not Supplied’ is the inspiring story of how they and their sons rose to the challenges they faced, including autism, attention deficit hyper-activity disorder, foetal alcohol syndrome, attachment disorder and sensory issues, and came together as a family like no other. The book describes with honesty many situations when the behaviour of the children challenges the

adults around them. It explores the process of diagnosis and the difficulty of getting the right support both for the children and their parents.

The book will be invaluable to prospective adopters and adoptive parents as well as natural parents of children with additional support needs. For practitioners, it gives an insight into the family life of those parenting such children and how best to support them.

Read our interview with Julie on page 5.

The 1st & 2nd of September saw the Dewars Centre in Perth host Tabletop Scotland, a games convention which attracted families and gamers of all stripes, from Scotland and further afield, to play board games, card games and roleplaying games together throughout the weekend. With an attendance of over 1,500, those who came along were entertained by exhibitors and events catering for all their gaming needs. David Wright, Convention Director, said “It was amazing to see so many families of all ages come and play games, many of them completely new to modern board games, but most importantly seeing them have

fun and really enjoy themselves was particularly special. The HABA Games team were busy hosting our family zone the whole weekend, demonstrating games and helping people discover this hobby for the first time. The fun didn’t stop there, with many families taking part in our Dungeons & Dragons events and board game tournaments like Carcassonne and Karuba.” Attendee Leroy, aged 4, said, ‘I liked playing the games. My favourite was a dragon game where you got crystals and a volcano’. Leroy’s mum, Lisa, said, ‘The organisation was fantastic; such a smooth process’ and felt the event was ‘relaxed and unhurried’ with ‘plenty of age-appropriate games’. Tabletop Scotland returns to the Dewars Centre on the 24th & 25th of August 2019 with tickets on sale from the 31st of January.

Find out more on www.tabletopscotland.co.uk

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Dunfermline St Andrews

01383 730 775 01592 756 376

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

Issue 46 : (E)

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Families Fife 3

NEWS

Confidence is key at Kumon At your local Kumon Study Centre, the aim is to develop students into confident, independent learners. With nearly 60 years of experience, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes enable children to take on new challenges with confidence.

Kumon believes that learning is for the long run. Children develop lifelong study skills and a passion for learning, as well as the confidence to tackle

new challenges and face the unknown. This confidence is not just instilled in them whilst at Kumon, it is something they will keep with them for life.

Students start at their justright level, where the initial focus is to build a strong foundation in study skills, developing concentration, pace and rhythm.

Once students have built this foundation, they will then be able to confidently tackle topics they have not previously studied.

Contact Laura (Kumon Dunfermline) on 01383 730 775 or Chris (Kumon St Andrews) on 01592 756 376

What’s ‘How It Felt’ all about?

By Deborah Chapman ‘How It Felt’ provides puppetbuilding, drama and film-making workshops focusing mostly on mental and emotional well-being. At the workshops, participants and staff can make puppets of themselves (or any character) and learn to operate and puppeteer through them. We offer group workshops, one-to-one sessions, parties, and commissions. At the end of the workshops the puppets are yours to keep. Workshops are flexible in delivery, ranging from

Home from Home with Chilly Powder

Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both? Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine, in France, all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people.

Having adapted their chalet-holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury,

with fantastic food, outstanding facilities, and unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. For many returning guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home.

For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com

Parenthood in Perth – the local NCT volunteer team supporting parents

one-off’s, lunch time clubs and after school sessions to half days, an Interdisciplinary Lesson Plan for sessions in a six week block or as many sessions as preferred. Our workshops can be themed and educational, based on your preference. We are also available for stalls and talks at events. Can’t wait to make new fuzzy friends with you!

If you’d like to book a workshop or commission a puppet, catch us at contact@howitfelt.co.uk www.facebook.com/HowItFelt/

The volunteer team running the Perth & District branch for the National Childbirth Trust knows just how life changes when raising a family.

They aim to make life a little easier and give up many hours to support those in the parenthood journey.

Bumps@ThePub is a unique opportunity for mums-to-be to meet before becoming parents. Held monthly in The Cellar Bar, Perth, new and familiar faces gather to chat to others expecting around the same time. In 2 years they have introduced many future best friends who say parenthood would have been a much

lonelier experience had they not made it along to these social evenings. And it’s not just for first time mums either, they are delighted to meet existing mums.

The team also regularly organise First Aid Courses, led by the British Red Cross, to give parents vital guidance that may become life saving. Anyone can book to attend. Simply contact the branch for more information.

Always looking at who they could support, a recent addition is an online support group for parents with twins, triplets and quadruplets.

This complements the two weekly groups: Bumps & Babies up to 12 months and NCTeenies, an activity packed group for 0-5 year olds.

For further information and contact details visit www.nct.org.uk/perth

New in children’s books

Lauriston Nursery @Dunfermline 165 Robertson Road, Fife KY12 0BL 01383 741900

Lauriston Nursery @Kinross Lathro, Kinross Fife KY13 8SY 01577 383838

www.letslearnyoung.com 4 Families Fife

We are lucky enough here at Editor HQ to get the opportunity to review some new children’s books every so often. Rory is four, Hamish is two, and both love Cyril and Pat by Emily Gravett.

It has earned more than a few reads! Cyril is the only squirrel in Lake Park, and he’s very lonely. Until one day he meets Pat – Pat the big, grey... ‘other squirrel’. Cyril and Pat have lots of adventures and fun together and Cyril is so pleased he’s made a friend. But everyone is adamant that Cyril and Pat simply cannot be friends, and they soon reveal why: Pat, as the reader has known all along, is actually a RAT! But Cyril’s life turns out to be a lot duller and quite a bit scarier without Pat by his side, and in the end the two friends learn that some things

are more important than being the same, or listening to others.

A lovely story about overcoming the fear of unacceptance and prejudices. A particular favourite part of sharing this story together is looking at the illustration of the dog chasing the duo around the park, and the trails they all follow… if you can keep up! www.familiesfife.co.uk

PARENT TO PARENT Julie Otto lives in Fife, Scotland, with her husband Steve, their three children, four dogs, three cats and two tortoises.

An accomplished golfer, who has represented her country in international events, she’s found life very different since adopting her boys.

Instructions Not Supplied is Julie’s account of her family’s experience in adopting three children, each of whom turned out to have additional support needs, and the challenges they have faced along the way.

A story of adoption, autism and coming together as a family, the book is a unique insight into the twin challenges of adoption and disability.

Families Editor Rachel Davidson met with Julie at home to discuss her book, her family and her life in Fife.

What do you like about living in East Fife?

The view is stunning in this part of Fife. And I love the beaches.

We’ve found ourselves here. It’s beautiful, quiet and not too busy.

It’s not great, sometimes, in that it can be an enormous distance to go for specialist support for our children’s needs.

Favourite places to go as a family?

Craigtoun Park, beaches (our favourite would have to be Kingsbarns), and Cairnie Fruit Farm when it’s not too busy.

Tell us about your family Steve comes from the south of England, as do I. We have been up here a long time, through work. Steve’s a scientist, I’m a golf-pro. We’re just a normal family. Well, maybe not quite normal - he worked for NASA, I played golf at an international level - but we don’t look at our children and think, ‘They have to be the next professional golfer or the next scientist.’ I think that was quite a barrier for us during

the adoption process as they kept thinking we were going to want our children to excel at something, but actually we just want them to do what they can do, not what we can do.

Our sons are Connor, Stephen and Harry. Connor is into engines, cars, and understanding how things work, Stephen loves dinosaurs and sharks and Harry is interested in WWI and WW2.

All three of the boys have ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) diagnoses. Stephen and Harry also have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

Stephen is learning disabled, with attachment disorder and dyslexia. Harry has Foetal Alcohol Syndrome.

What prompted you to write the book?

I wanted to be a voice for change. Having adopted 3 children in 3 years, and now living every day with the range of additional support needs that we do, we have such a lot of experience of the challenges that face adopters and those parenting children with additional support needs.

I realised that if you print something, you get your voice, you get to say what you want to say and get your message out there.

It’s a very honest account of the facts. Were you worried about anyone reading it?

I’m not worried about anyone’s reaction, because it’s fact.

There’s a couple of people that might read it and recognise themselves, and perhaps wouldn’t be too happy, but they aren’t named and I doubt

...a child with additional support needs is not just the weird kid in the corner. They are a child that has a disability that is not known to the world.

they’ll read it. Fife Council have received it well and invited me to speak at their adopters’ conference in November, which is a real positive. I’d like to help improve the experience of other adopters.

Who do you hope will read the book?

I hope that it’s an eclectic audience, including prospective adopters, to give them an idea of what could be ahead of them; existing adopters that are perhaps having some issues of their own; natural parents of children with needs; professionals, including teachers. Connor’s headteacher has read it because Connor walked into his office and demanded a tenner for a book!

I’d like people to find some solace, help or direction in it.

What advice would you give someone wanting to adopt?

Ask lots of questions! We were afraid to because we didn’t want them to say no to us, which wouldn’t have happened of course, but we just wanted

a child and didn’t ask. Challenge the information presented to you and ask the hard questions.

What message would you want to give to neurotypical children and their parents?

That a child with additional support needs is not just the weird kid in the corner. They are a child that has a disability that is not known to the world. Just because you are autistic doesn’t mean you don’t have friends, you just need understanding from others. Stephen’s friends in particular are a very special group of friends, and have a patience level with him that is different from other children.

What advice would you give to someone who recognises their own children in your children?

Similarities in behaviour or anything else doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s autism. But if you do have concerns, find yourself a friendly GP, someone you can trust and talk it through. Don’t just sit on concerns, talk to other people and don’t hold it within.

Instructions not Supplied is published by Practical Inspiration Publishing and retails at £12.99.

It is available on Amazon, at Waterstones and from other book retailers. www.familiesfife.co.uk

Families Fife 5

Where to find Santa this Christmas!

There’s nothing quite so magical for a child (or parent!) at Christmas time than to visit Santa in his grotto.

Here are some of the wonderful opportunities to meet the big man in red this festive season. Many of these experiences now require advance booking so take time to plan ahead and avoid disappointment.

Rejects Department Store, Kirkcaldy Saturday 10th November 11am Santa arrives in his horse and carriage! Then visit Santa (for free!) in his grotto every Saturday and Sunday leading up to Christmas.

Visit includes a gift.

Dobbies Perth, Dundee, Dunfermline, Dalgety Bay and Kinross Sunday 18th November – Monday 24th December Santa’s grotto is one of our most exciting festive experiences at Dobbies. Bring your little ones along to explore the magical setting, be welcomed by Santa himself and receive a toy of your choice (choose at time of booking). Grotto visits cost £11.99 per child. Book online at www.dobbies.com where you can also explore the other festive offerings available at some stores, including Breakfast with Santa, Christmas Lunch or Tea with Santa.

Mercat Shopping Centre, Kirkcaldy Sunday 20th November 12pm Reindeer Parade from Thistle Street. Santa’s grotto opens after this and then every ThursdaySunday 11am-5pm following the parade until 24 December. Grotto visits from £3.50, includes gift.

The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th November Father Christmas joins us in his grotto for our Christmas Emporium. See page 12 for details.

Muddy Boots, nr Cupar From 11.10am every Saturday and Sunday in December before Christmas, as well as from 3.30pm-6.30pm on Friday 7th and Friday 14th December. The cost is £8.50 per child, £6.50 for children under 2.

Muddy Boots also has other lovely Christmas 6 Families Fife

Rory was pleased to meet Santa in London last year

experiences, including breakfast with Santa, Christmas Afternoon Tea and Christmas Buffet Tea. Visit www.muddybootsfife.com for more details.

Glendoick Garden Centre, Glencarse Saturdays and Sundays 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm, first three weekends in December only.

Visit Santa in his brand new Woodland Cabin! Come and visit him and receive an early Christmas present. We don’t charge an entry fee for Santa but instead ask for a voluntary donation to our chosen charity which this year is Trellis Therapeutic Gardening. When you’ve said goodbye to Santa have a look at our magical displays of Elves, Polar Bears, Robins and more or have a bite to eat in the Café. Visit https://www. glendoick.com/VisitSanta-event for more information.

Toby’s Magical Journey, Cupar From 1st December. Saturdays & Sundays 12pm-4pm, Fridays 3pm-7pm.

Magic show on Sun 23rd Based in Cupar we are a children’s cancer charity with the only drop-in centre facility in Fife for children with cancer. We provide support for the whole family and they can come to us to relax and have lots of fun. Our Santa’s grotto is open to the public. Our Santa does not charge as he believes that all children should see Santa and they will receive a gift.

If a family wishes to leave a donation they can do so. Santa has assistants Olaf, Chief Elf and Trainee Elf and sometimes Elsa is there too! Our Grotto is at 126 Bonnygate Cupar (opposite Co-Op where there is a car park) ✱ All details of Santa can be found on our Facebook page - Santa at Toby’s Magical Journey.

Piperdam, Fowlis, Dundee Saturday 1st – Monday 24th December (times vary) Make your child’s Christmas special with a visit to see Santa in his magical grotto!

Prices include free gift: £6.50 to see Santa, £9.95 for Santa & Soft Play, £14.95 for Santa, Soft Play and VIP Breakfast or Lunch.

Call us on 01382 585013 for more info!

Crieff Hydro Saturday 1st – Friday 21st December Join us for a grotto experience like no other.

Kick back and watch the smile on the wee ones’ faces while they’re treated to a full 30 minutes of festive songs and stories with Santa. Plus, everyone on the nice list will get a special gift from under the tree. £15 per child, including gift and professional photo to take home too! Book now on 01764 655555. Max. of two adults per child, no cameras.

Craigtoun Park, near St Andrews Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th December £7 per child, includes gift from Santa, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Elf Trail & Storytelling.

Pre-booking required: 01334 472013.

Loch Leven’s Larder, Kinross Saturday 22nd December 1pm-4pm Enjoy Christmas activities with our elves while you wait to meet Santa in the grotto. £8.50 per child, includes gift. Book at www.lochlevenslarder.com where you can also explore Breakfast with Santa & Mrs Claus and other festive events.

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CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Winter Fun – Indoors!

During the winter months, families often spend more time indoors.

It’s tempting to allow the kids to while away the time on devices or playing on their Xbox. But there are ways of keeping your kids off their screens and still having fun, even within the four walls of your own home.

Here’s a Families guide to some fun bad-weather-day activities Make a Cardboard Town Get hold of a giant cardboard box or add lots of small ones together to make a town using large felt tips or paint. Let their imaginations run riot, and they can add cars and wooden/plastic people to make it more realistic.

Set Up an Indoor Treasure Hunt Write some cryptic clues and hide a treasure trail of items for them to find. They may want to design one for you to do too!

Make Slime Batten down the hatches, get the aprons out and be prepared

for a tsunami of a mess in your kitchen. This activity is satisfyingly messy and great fun. Get your children to research how to make the best slime or play-doh on YouTube (it’s for educational purposes after all).

Get Cooking If you aren’t keen on the slime idea, get the kids to cook you a meal instead. This is satisfying for them but also a treat for you (hopefully!). Suggest they plan a three-course meal for dinner.

Get them to design a menu and research how to make the dishes online or refer to some recipe books. I think getting them to look in the fridge and come up with some dishes with ingredients you already have teaches them a great a life skill too. A pasta sauce or an apple crumble are tasty and rewarding dishes, yet are simple fro kids to make. If you have smaller children baking something simple like fairy cakes or biscuits would obviously be more appropriate.

Play Cards Teach the kids the card games you used to play as a child. If you can’t get them interested in Patience or Gin Rummy, look up some cool card tricks for them to learn and show their friends.

Make Special Cards Get out the art supplies and card and make some Christmas and birthday cards. Why don’t you

WIN! ‘THE LITTLEST REINDEER’ ON DVD When Blitzen announces his retirement from Santa’s reindeer team, little horse Elliot believes he is the best animal for the job and joins in the North Pole reindeer try-outs. But when a strange lady turns up on the farm, Elliot must choose between being a reindeer and saving Christmas or helping his friends. This fun new festive movie is out now on DVD and we have a copy to win.

Just answer this question: Which one of these names is one of Santa’s reindeers: 1. Randolph 2. Rudolph 3. Ruby Email your answer to editor@familiesfife.co.uk

by Saturday 1st December.

Terms and conditions apply.

See page 2 for details.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

By Claire Winter

get creative with Origami? My kids love making butterflies and birds and sticking them onto cards.

Have a Kitchen Disco My favourite thing to do on a rainy day is to have a party in the kitchen. Choose the most appropriate room in your house and sort a great playlist of music that will get the whole family moving. Have a ‘dance off’ with your kids.

Make a Magazine Set up a news desk in the house and decide what the magazine is going to be about. Think up a great name and get someone in the “team” to design the front cover. Send out some roving reporters to write some news stories and create some fun features. The whole family can get involved!

Set up a Racing Track Use masking tape to create a huge car-racing track around the house or living room. Get the toy cars out and race away!

Get Active You could make an indoor obstacle course or try hula hooping or skipping in the living room. To make it more interesting, do some timed challenges.You could also create indoor hopscotch with masking tape.

Try Balloon Ping Pong or Table Tennis Blow up some balloons and use some table tennis bats or make your own with some sticks and paper plates. Set up a ‘net’ on the dining table, using books, boxes or similar, and hold a tournament.

Hours of fun!

Christmas Lights Switch-Ons!

Perth Sat 17th Nov

Dunfermline Sat 17th Nov Glenrothes (Kingdom Shopping Centre) Sat 17th Nov

Dundee Sat 17th Nov Crieff Sat 24th Nov

Kinross Sat 24th Nov

Cupar Sat 24th Nov

Kirkcaldy Sat 24th Nov

Families Fife 7

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Our Guide to this year’s Christmas Pantos and Shows Sleeping Beauty set to cast a magical spell on the Alhambra Theatre this Christmas The Alhambra Theatre pantomime for 2018 is the magical tale of Sleeping Beauty, starring Fife’s favourite Dame, Billy Mack. The show will feature an all-star cast from stage and screen, along with fantastic costumes, live orchestra, spectacular sets & special effects, all with a special twist.

The production will again encompass all the elements of a traditional family pantomime that Alhambra audiences have come to love and expect. Bruce Strachan is Director for this year’s Alhambra panto production. ‘I am very much looking forward to working with the amazing cast. The show will deliver a slightly different take on the magical fairy tale. Our audiences are going to have a sparkling time this Christmas at the Alhambra & it’s set to be fun for the whole family’. Sleeping Beauty will cast its spell at the Alhambra Theatre, from 7-29th December 2018. Tickets for Sleeping Beauty can be purchased from the

The Snow Queen at Dundee Rep Theatre, (Age recommendation 5+) 29 November–31 December Alice in Christmas Land at Bonar Hall, Dundee Dundee Junior Showtime’s panto for all the family 15&16 November Flutter at Dundee Rep Theatre An interactive, immersive performance for 2-6 year olds that takes its audience on a multi-sensory journey through a world of winter snow.

18 December 10am, 1pm, 3pm; 19-22 December 10.30am, 1pm The Wizard of Oz at Pitlochry Festival Theatre 23 November – 23 December Dick Whittington at Whitehall Theatre, Dundee 14-21 December

8 Families Fife

Look out for an Editor Review of Sleeping Beauty on our Facebook page!

WIN! One of 2 family tickets to the Gala Opening Night of Sleeping Beauty on Friday 7th December.

To be in with a chance to win, answer the following question: Who is playing the Dame in Sleeping Beauty at the Alhambra this year?

Alhambra Theatre on 01383 740384/733666 or in person, and also via Ticketmaster online – www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Email your answer to editor@familiesfife.co.uk by Friday 30th November. Terms and conditions apply. See page 2 for details.

OnFife presents...

ON Fife has all you need to make this winter sparkle! At the Rothes Halls, Glenrothes, Funbox bring their festive fairytale Once Upon A Christmas to families (Thu 29 Nov – Sun 2 Dec, Ages 4+, prices vary). With all your favourite sing-alongs, help the cast of crazy characters make sure everyone lives happily ever after.

Imagine Theatre returns to the Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy, with the magical tale of Beauty & the Beast (Sat 8 Dec to Sat 5 Jan 2019).

With the traditional sing-along, sweetie throw and a host of friendly characters along the way, there’s something special for all the family. We’re pleased to put on a BSL interpreted performance (Fri 14 Dec, 7pm), and a relaxed performance too (Fri 4 Jan 2019, 11am). At our relaxed performance, the lights are turned up, the sound is turned down, and elements of surprise are reduced. The performance may be more suitable for guests with additional support requirements, such as Asperger’s or Autism.

At the Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline, our festival of

The Magical Pantomine!

This Christmas you shall go to the ball with the spectacular rags to riches family pantomime Cinderella.

It’s jam-packed full of famous faces, including River City favourites Scott Fletcher (“Angus Lindsay”) and Tom Urie (“Big Bob”), with Darren Connell from the hit BBC comedy series “Scot Squad”.

The dashing Prince is hosting a ball and Cinderella would give anything to go, but her beautiful (oh no they’re not!) Ugly Sisters have other plans. Doomed

to drudgery, Cinderella can only dream of a happy-ever-after. With the clock about to strike midnight and her wicked Ugly Sisters determined to ruin her love life, will Cinders manage to find true love before the spell runs out?

Prepare to boo, hiss and cheer – oh yes you will – in this perfect festive treat for all the family. Can a pair of shoes really change your life?

The clock is ticking…book your tickets now for some sparkling festive fun at the Gardyne Theatre!

WIN! One family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) for either opening night Sat 8th Dec or Sun 9th 1pm performance.

To be in with a chance to win, answer the following question:

Look out for an Editor Review of Cinderella on our Email your answer to Facebook editor@familiesfife.co.uk by Friday 30th page!

November. Terms and conditions apply.

See page 2 for details.

How many ugly Sisters does Cinderella have?

www.familiesfife.co.uk

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Set your alarm for festive Fun at The Byre Theatre, St Andrews Time out with our little ones is always such a magical experience. We all struggle to carve out those precious moments in our hectic schedules “Alan Steele returns to The Byre panto to get the crowds laughing for the fifth year in a row.”

(when we often feel more like taxi drivers than parents), and what few moments there are often feel far too fleeting.

And that’s without mentioning the difficulty in wrenching the little darlings away from those pesky screens!

But there’s nothing beats seeing a wee smile on their faces. It’s enough to brighten up even the darkest of autumn and winter days.

That’s why The Byre is the perfect destination for when you need to break up your routine, with their delightful programme of shows specifically for children and families. There are always plenty of shows and events to keep you entertained yearround and you can find them at byretheatre.com But the highlight is definitely PANTO! The Byre’s pantomime

children’s theatre and family films returns with Tiny Little Christmas. We’ll be opening the doors to The Magical Toyshop (Wed 5 Dec – Sat 8 Dec, ages 2+, £5), where the elves need your help to make sure Santa delivers all of his gifts on time.

Wee explorers can also journey to the top of Cloud Mountain in Cloudman (Tue 11 – Sat 15 Dec, ages 3+, £5). Following the clues with curious Claude the cloud expert, you’ll come across the mysterious puppet who lives in the skies! An addition for this year’s festival, you can also enjoy our Christmas Craft Fayre (Sun 9 Dec, 12-4pm, Free), where you can shop for locally made items and gifts – there will even by a visit from Santa himself!

As always, this is just a taster of festive family events taking place across all ON Fife Theatres, Museums, Libraries and Galleries to keep you entertained over the cold winter months.

the screens, and pop down to the Byre for some truly quality time with your family.

Sleeping Beauty is at The Byre Theatre, St Andrews. Thursday 29 November 2018 - Saturday 5 January 2019. Ticket Prices vary.

WIN! A family pass (4 tickets) to see Cloudman at the Carnegie Hall! This can be for any of the performances in the run (Tue 11 Dec – Fri 14 Dec, 10.30am/1.30pm, Sat 15 Dec 11am/2pm).

To win, tell us the name of the cloud expert in Cloudman at Carnegie Hall: A) Clive B) Claude C) Craig Email your answer to editor@familiesfife.co.uk

by Friday 30th November Cannot be used in conjunction with any other overs.

Perth Theatre presents Snow White and the Seven Dames Fri 30 Nov – Sat 5 Jan, Perth Theatre Directed by Lu Kemp and Barrie Hunter Snow White never asked to be beautiful. She never asked to be given a name that reduces her to her perfect complexion. It’s particularly embarrassing now that she has a bout of acne...

Whistle up your best booing, hissing and singing voices and help Snow White and friends live happily ever after in Perth Theatre’s dame-tastic family panto!

The Polar Bears and Unicorn present The Polar Bears Go Up! Wed 12 – Sun 23 Dec, Joan Knight Studio, Perth Theatre The Polar Bears are moving up in the world. They’ve lost their balloon and they need to get it back. It’s time to get up, step up, climb up, jump up. One thing’s for sure, the only way is up!

These lovable Polar Bears are intrepid explorers, famous for their wild expeditions. This time they’ll be climbing trees, jumping on clouds and reaching for the stars as they race up to space. Of course, they’ll stop for sandwiches on the way!

The Polar Bears Go Up is non-verbal and deaf friendly.

For ages 2-5 www.familiesfife.co.uk

is a local legend, absolutely guaranteed to delight the whole family with plenty of laughter, colourful costumes and a load of fun songs. The 2018 show is from the trusted creatives responsible for the hits of recent years. In particular, the script and direction of the fantastic Gordon Barr guarantees a family treat.

This year’s treat is Sleeping Beauty – brought to life in a thoroughly modern and very Scottish re-telling. The topnotch cast is accompanied by some of Fife’s most talented and committed youngsters in the form of the Byre Youth Theatre.

And if a relaxed, signed or captioned performance suits you and your family – just give The Byre a call to make arrangements.

So, take a break from your busy festive schedule, turn off

“Last year’s Beauty is back again, enchanting crowds with her performance of Bonnie in Sleeping Beauty!”

Look out for Editor Reviews on Families Fife Facebook page!

Check out festive additions on our event pages at onfife.com or keep up to date with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, @onfife

Funbox presents Once Upon A Christmas Fee-fi-fo-fum, our keys are gone and there’s worse to come! All your favourite stories are going wrong and it’s up to the Funbox gang to make sure everyone lives happily ever after! Come dressed for some fairytale festive fun – come as your favourite storybook character and bring a Santa hat!

Whitehall Theatre, Dundee, 22-25 November; Rothes Halls, Glenrothes, 29 November– 2 December; Perth Concert Hall, 30 December; Alhambra Theatre, Dunfermline, 31 December

Families Fife 9

CLUBS, CLASSES & WORKSHOPS DIRECTORY MUSIC

SPORTS

Tots Express offers a fun and interactive program of music, movement and sensory classes throughout Fife for different age groups from 3 months to 5 years.

Watch your child learn and develop in a structured, yet relaxed and informal atmosphere.

To view our timetable and secure your place, visit www.totsexpress.co.uk

ARTS

LANGUAGES Kidslingo offer award-winning, fun language learning for kids in French and Spanish. Our sessions are full of songs, games, music and stories… We are also officially Makaton-friendly! For more info, see our Facebook www.facebook.com/KidslingoKittyT, or view our full timetable at http://bit.ly/2weWzKx and book your free taster.

Fife, Tayside

Rugbytots, the world’s favourite Rugby play programme, in 8 locations across Perth and Kinross. Our motto is simple: “make it more fun” which our amazing coaches do whilst teaching your Tot to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team.

Visit www.rugbytots.co.uk call 0345 313 0288.

Email samaan@rugbytots.co.uk

see this page for more info

How It Felt provides supervised and interactive Puppet Building, drama and film making Workshops. We can be available for group workshops, one to one’s, lesson plans, birthday parties, and commissions plus much more! For more info contact@howitfelt.co.uk or https://www.facebook.com/HowItFelt Can’t wait to make new fuzzy friends with you!

pg4

If you’d like to see your club, class or workshop featured in our new directory, get in touch with Rachel at editor@familiesfife.co.uk or via Facebook ‘Families Fife Magazine’

Out and about dates for your diary

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since our press deadline. Please send events to be listed to: editor@familiesfife.co.uk

Until Sun 11 Nov BRICK CITY Verdant Works, Dundee, DD1 5BT See some of the world’s favourite buildings and urban icons recreated solely using LEGO bricks. Included in museum admission.

Until Mon 24 Dec FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEAS Heaven Scent and Heavens above, Milnathort 12pm-4pm Our classic afternoon teas for adults and Willy Wonkas for kids are a fantastic, unique way to get into the Christmas spirit. £14.95 adult/£7.50 children. Booking required.

01577 865577 eat@heavenscentcoffeeshop.co.uk Thur 1 Nov MESSY MUSEUM Perth Museum and Art Gallery 10.15aam-11am Ages 2-4 11.30am-12.15pm Ages 0-2 Under 5s be prepared to get messy!

Fun and creative sessions for our youngest visitors at Perth Museum and Art Gallery. Get messy, get hands on and have fun. An extra t-shirt or apron is recommended.

Booking in advance on 01738 632488 is essential and is for 1 child and 1 adult per session.

Fri 2 Nov BABY MUSA: CREEPY CRAWLIES Bell Pettigrew Museum, St Andrews, KY16 9TS 10 Families Fife

10.15am-11.15am Baby MUSA Time allows your little one to discover some of the fantastic things found in museums through stories, songs, games and messy play. Held in the Bell Pettigrew Museum this drop-in activity is for pre-school children and whoever looks after them. Come along and join in the fun! Free, no booking required. Bell Pettigrew Museum, Bute Building, Door C, St Mary’s Quad, off South St, St Andrews. KY16 9TS. Enquiries: Email: museumlearning@st-andrews. ac.uk T: 01334 461663/461660 WEE WEAVERS Verdant Works, Dundee, DD1 5BT 10.30am-11am Stories, craft sessions and messy play for wee ones aged 2-5, inspired by our museum collection. Park your buggy and join us for a coffee. £4 incl. refreshments. Booking essential www.dundeeheritage.eventbrite.com NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

PLANETARIUM SHOW Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Dundee 6pm, 7pm & 8pm Take a tour of the night sky and learn about constellations, asteroids, galaxies and the latest news from space.

Suitable for adults and children aged 5 years and over. Adults £1, children 50p. Booking essential on 01382 435967.Sat 3 & Sun 4 LANTERN-MAKING WORKSHOPS Mercat Shopping Centre, Kirkcaldy 10am-4pm These workshops provide free family fun and activities,

helping to create fantastic Christmas bauble lanterns which you can then bring along to Kirkcaldy’s Christmas Lantern Parade on Saturday 24th November.

Sat 3 Nov ST ANDREWS FARMERS’ MARKET Argyle St Car Park, St Andrews 9am-1pm PERTH FARMERS’ MARKET King Edward Street, Perth 9am-2pm BRICK CITY: INTRO TO 3D MODELLING 10.30am-12.30am Explore 3D printing with Dundee Libraries as you create 3D models from 2D drawings. £4, booking essential, ages 13+. www.dundeeheritage.eventbrite.com

Sat 3 NOV JACK & JILL MARKET

Vine Conference Centre, Dunfermline. 10.30am-1pm Where Smart Families Sell & Save. Join us at your local Jack & Jill Baby & Kids Market.

Find everything you need for children aged 0-9yrs, at 40+ stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby and kids’ goods at affordable prices.

Shop smartly, be SAVVY and SAVE £££. Prams, Cots, Cribs, Clothes, Toys, and so much more, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for – why pay more when you can pay less – now that’s being smart! Book your stall at www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

THE POPPY: A SYMBOL OF REMEMBERANCE Black Watch Castle and Museum, Perth 11am-3pm Create your own poppy and remember those who have lost their lives in conflicts past and present. All ages welcome. Drop in family event.

Suggested donation of £3 per child.

BRICK CITY: LIVELY LEGO! Verdant Works, Dundee, DD1 5BT 2pm-5pm Drop in to play, create and try your hand at a range of LEGO brick activities with Bricks 4 Kidz! Design and build a cityscape, make a mosaic masterpiece or even see your creation come to life with motorised models! Included in museum admission, drop in for all ages.

LIVE-ACTION FAMILY FUN DAY & FIREWORKS Knockhill Racing Circuit, Dunfermline 2pm-6pm We’ll have a whole host of entertainment on-track and just as much off it. It’s a familyfun day out for all with bonfire and fireworks display at 6pm to end the day. Advance tickets cost £8 for adults, £5 for concessions and children under 12 are free! www.knockhill.com BONFIRE & FIREWORKS NIGHT Ship Inn, Elie 5pm-10pm Come along and join us at the Ship Inn on Elie harbour beach for our annual fireworks and bonfire night! Live music, BBQ from 5pm in beer garden, mulled wine, bonfire lit (weather depending) 5.30pm and fireworks at 7pm. www.familiesfife.co.uk

OUT AND ABOUT FIREWORKS DISPLAY Dalgety Bay Bowling Club 6.30pm-11.30pm Fireworks, hot food available for purchase.

All welcome, no membership required. £2 to view the fireworks. Over 18s disco after, £5.

DUNFERMLINE FIREWORKS DISPLAY Coal Road, Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline Time TBC Dunfermline Delivers organises one of the biggest and most spectacular fireworks displays in Scotland. In 2017 a crowd of over 40,000 descended on the beautiful Pittencrieff Park to enjoy a fabulous display. DJs and bands play in the lead up to the spectacular centrepiece, all in the magnificent setting of the Glen.

Sun 4 Nov SUNDAY SCREENING Discovery Point, Dundee, DD1 4XA 11am Monthly family film in Polarama, inspired by RRS Discovery. We’ll provide the comfy cushions, you bring some pennies for popcorn! All ages, no booking required, free.

FESTIVAL OF ‘STREET FOOD MARKET’ The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews 12pm-3pm This ever-popular and unique event will showcase the very best of Scotland’s larder – a collaboration of award-winning chefs from across St Andrews working together to create a mouth-watering sampling of tastes from the chefs. Entry is free of charge. £5 per person to sample three dishes. Under 12s are free of charge and will include a ticket to sample three dishes.

BROUGHTY FERRY CRAFT FAYRE YMCA Broughty Ferry, DD5 1DJ 12pm-4pm A local fayre with local crafters. There will be an array of locally handmade items for sale.

Please support our local crafters!

SAMHAIN FAMILY FIRE FESTIVAL Cambo Stables Visitor Centre, Cambo Gardens, Kingsbarns, KY16 8QD 4pm-7pm A firework-free family and dog-friendly bonfire party!

Join us for a pagan celebration of the changing of the seasons, crafts, hot pressed apple juice and a twinkly walk through the walled garden to our secret bonfire. £5 per adult, children free.

Places limited, booking essential, contact judy@cambogardens.org.uk CUPAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY Cupar Golf Club, KY15 5JT 4.45pm-7pm Fireworks display by 21CC Fireworks. Hot food and drinks available. Only £2 entry.

Display starts at 6pm.

THE BUCKHAVEN AND DENBEATH BONFIRE AND FIREWORKS DISPLAY Buckhaven Braes 6.30pm Stalls, fairground rides, food vans and the Kingdom FM roadshow. www.familiesfife.co.uk

Mon 5 Nov BURNTISLAND FIREWORKS & BONFIRE NIGHT Burntisland Links From 6pm Entertainment from 6pm, bonfire lit at 7pm and the fireworks will begin at approx.

7.15pm. Although there is no entry charge, the event relies on public donations. Please donate to the collection buckets on the night if you can.

CRIEFF ROUND TABLE BONFIRE & FIREWORKS DISPLAY Market Park, Crieff 6.30pm-8.30pm This year promises to be a top year with a bumper display in store for you all. Gates open at 6.30pm, the bonfire will be lit at 7.15pm and the fireworks start at 7.30pm. We do not charge a set entry fee but we do ask for a donation. Your support is appreciated as money collected this year funds next years event.

Sparklers are not permitted due to the risk of burns however glow sticks will be available to purchase. Alcohol is also not allowed within the park.

40TH ANNUAL PERTH STRATHEARN ROUND TABLE CHARITY BONFIRE NIGHT South Inch, Perth Bonfire lit 7pm An evening full of fun, fireworks and fundraising for all the family. Once again, Perth Strathearn Round Table presents its annual family-friendly charity fundraising extravaganza on Guy Fawkes/Bonfire Night. Funfair and vendors open at 6pm. Bonfire lit around 7pm. Fireworks will be set off to music at 7.30pm. Come along, make a donation and enjoy the night. Or better still, for those fit, able and willing, why not help local good causes during the day and on the night?

Wed 7 Nov NATURE TOTS: AFTER DARK RSPB Loch Leven 10am-11.30am Come along with your budding wildlife adventurers for a journey through the seasons.

This popular monthly event, for families with children aged 5 and under, starts with a story and is packed with creative ideas and surprises, getting you outside and playing in nature. Please dress for the weather – pack your wellies!

RSPB Members £4, non-members £6 (per family). Booking essential.

Call 01577862355 or email lochleven@rspb.org.uk NCT BUMPS AND BABIES GROUP Tulloch Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 12 months. £2 to cover costs, refreshment and cake provided.

WEE EXPLORERS Discover Point, Dundee, DD1 4XA 2.30pm-3.30pm Stories, craft sessions and messy play for wee ones aged 2-5, inspired by exploration and adventure.

Park your buggy and join us for

a coffee. £4 incl. refreshments.

Booking essential www.dundeeheritage.eventbrite.com Fri 9 Nov NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

Sat 10 Nov DUNFERMLINE FARMERS MARKET Dobbies, Fife Leisure Park 9am-1pm LANTERN-MAKING WORKSHOPS Mercat Shopping Centre, Kirkcaldy 10am-4pm These workshops provide free family fun and activities, helping to create fantastic Christmas bauble lanterns which you can then bring along to Kirkcaldy’s Christmas Lantern Parade on Saturday 24th November.

BRICK CITY: LEGO X MINECRAFT 10.30am-12.30am Create and customise your own imaginary worlds using LEGO and Minecraft in this 2-hour workshop with Dundee Libraries. £4. Ages 13+ Wed 14 Nov NCT BUMPS AND BABIES GROUP Tulloch Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 12 months. £2 to cover costs, refreshment and cake provided.

NCT BUMPS @ THE PUB The Cellar Bar, Perth 7pm-9pm Monthly social evenings for pregnant mums to meet other pregnant mums in a relaxed or informal setting. £3 to cover costs.

Refreshments and cake provided.

Thur 15 Nov CHRISTMAS FAIR @ LAURISTON KINROSS Lauriston Nursery, Kinross 7pm-9pm Come along to our annual Christmas Fair. Lots of local stall holders, children’s crafts, cake and candy and lots more.

Fri 16 Nov NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

PLANETARIUM SHOW Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Dundee 6pm, 7pm & 8pm Take a tour of the night sky and learn about constellations, asteroids, galaxies and the latest news from space.

Suitable for adults and children aged 5 years and over. Adults £1, children 50p. Booking essential on 01382 435967.

Sat 17 & Sun 18 Nov PERTH CHOCOLATE AND GIN STREET FEST King Edward Street, Perth The Perth Chocolate and Gin Street Fest is a unique celebration of all things chocolate & gin.

Indulge your passion for the cocoa bean with mouth-watering chocolate bars, buttons, sauces, spreads, cakes, truffles, hot chocolate and so much more…

Browse the great range of stalls showcasing gins from around the UK with an amazing variety of flavours to choose from. Taste a few, buy a bottle or two – there’s a gin to suit every taste!

Sat 17 Nov PERTH CHRISTMAS MARKET Perth City Centre 9am-5pm Shop in the unique atmosphere of a Christmas market – the perfect place for all your gifts and treats at Christmastime.

CUPAR FARMERS’ MARKET Crossgate, Cupar 9am-1pm LANTERN-MAKING WORKSHOPS Mercat Shopping Centre, Kirkcaldy 10am-4pm These workshops provide free family fun and activities, helping to create fantastic Christmas bauble lanterns which you can then bring along to Kirkcaldy’s Christmas Lantern Parade on Saturday 24th November.

SLATE MOSAIC WORKSHOP The Ecology Centre, Kinghorn 1.30pm-4pm In this afternoon workshop you will learn how to design and create your own mosaic slate tile. Participants will receive practical tuition from Jo, who will be taking the workshop in the basics of designing a slate mosaic piece, cutting glass and tiles safely and how to place the glass to create different effects.

There should be enough time to create two waterproof and frostproof slates, perhaps one for yourself and one as a unique Christmas present for that person in your life that has everything? £25 per person. Ages 14+. www.theecologycentre.org/events/ slate-mosaic-workshop PERTH CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON FUN DAY Tay Street, Horsecross Plaza and King Edwards Street 2pm-late Explore a variety of activities, watch fantastic musicians live and try tasty treats and street food. Christmas parade starts 5.30pm at Thimblerow, goes through South Street then onto the main stage at Tay Street. See Santa!

Christmas light switch on & fireworks starts 6.15pm. Watch Perth and Kinross Provost, Dennis Melloy turn on the Christmas Lights with special guests and a firework display over the River Tay. Families Fife 11

Out and about dates for your diary DUNDEE’S CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON 4pm-9pm Entertainment including: Annual lantern parade and torchlight procession, a wishing wall there people can light a candle and make a Christmas wish, Christmas Light Switch On

by Santa and the Lord Provost, Carnival in Murraygate, Silent Disco in Reform Street, Ceilidh in City Square, Christmas food and drink offering, Street Performers including the Christmas Fairy, Pingoo the Penguin at McManus Galleries, Nativity at Steeple Church, Choirs, Big Screen Christmas Sing-along.

DUNFERMLINE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON Glen Gates, Bridge Street, Dunfermline Time TBC The ever-popular Christmas lights switch-on in Dunfermline town centre.

Every year Dunfermline Delivers organises the Christmas Lights Switch On when families pack the High Street for the parade followed by the switch-on at the Glen Gates. Leading up to the switch on there is a full programme of events throughout the day including DJs and bands.

This year’s parade promises to be bigger and better than ever. There will also be a food and crafts event taking place on the day.

Sun 18 Nov PERTH FESTIVE FEAST Perth City Centre 9am-5pm Live music and entertainment with a variety of Christmas treats available including cake, soup, chocolate and gin.

PERTH WINTER CAKEFEST Horsecross Plaza, Perth Back in Perth for its second year – see the even bigger fully edible map of Perth and Kinross and an edible Santa and sleigh!

THE GREAT PERTHSHIRE ‘ZUPPA’ SOUP FINALE Giraffe, South Street, Perth Local social enterprise, Giraffe are looking for your votes in the annual Great Perthshire Soup Competition.

STUDIO8 CHRISTMAS FAYRE Studio8, Glenrothes 10am-3pm Join us for an opportunity to browse exciting and unique gifts, produced by local businesses and traders. Look no further than our ‘One Stop Christmas Shop’ – Christmas gifts for all the family! Kids can enjoy decorating Christmas Cake and Candy in our designated kids corner.

HOP ON THE GRUESOME & GHASTLY HISTORY MYSTERY BUS TOUR! Bus leaves from The Court House, Kinross Two tours, one at 11am and one at 2pm A bus trip not to be missed!

Come along on this bus tour and hear about some of the horrible gruesome crime and mystery 12 Families Fife

stories that happened in the recent (and not so recent) past around Kinross-shire. The bus will stop at all the relevant places and the stories will be brought to life by local storyteller Irene McFarlane. There will also be some live music on the bus. A fun way to spend a November Sunday. You never know what you will learn! Tickets are limited so book them quick if you can!

Enjoy a free hot drink at The Court House to warm you after your chillingly ghostly experience!

Tickets £10/£8 Concession available from Macbeth Currie Estate Agent in Kinross, Light Up Your Heart in Milnathort or TicketWeb. CHRISTMAS FOOD & CRAFT FAIR Cambo Estate 11am-4pm The perfect opportunity to do your Christmas shopping! Enjoy browsing around the Christmas stalls throughout Cambo House. Local crafts and delicacies, seasonal music and entertainment. Entry £1, children free. In aid of Cambo Heritage Trust.

MERCAT 30TH REINDEER PARADE & PARTY Kirkcaldy Town Centre & Mercat Centre From 12 noon Santa & his reindeer led by Kirkcaldy & District Pipe Band with Kingdom FM Street Team. For more info www.mercatshoppingcentre.co.uk QUARRYMILL ADVENTURES Quarrymill Woodland Park, Scone, Perth 1pm-3.30pm All 8-12 year olds welcome! Each month we go on a journey into the woods to discover and explore the wildlife that lives there along with the seasonal changes that take place throughout the year. Led by RSPB community learning officers this group aims to inspire and engage future generations to enjoy and care for the world we live in and the nature all around us. Free but booking is essential on 01577 862355 or email miranda.shephard@rspb.org.uk Tues 20 Nov MEET THE AUTHOR: DAVID MACPHAIL & TOP SECRET GRANDAD AND ME Loch Leven Community Library, Kinross 4pm-5pm A fun, interactive event with children’s author David MacPhail. He will talk about mind maps and how you can use them to plot stories. An event for age 8+. His book, Top Secret Grandad and Me, is about twelve-year old detective Jay Patel and his new top-secret sidekick – his ghost grandad! After a dead body disappears from the school library, Jay and his Grandad have to find out where it went.

Their deadly funny trail leads to diamonds, blackmail, and some very dirty laundry! A laugh out loud mystery series for ages

8+. For tickets go to Loch Leven Community Library, MacBeth Currie Estate Agent in Kinross, Light Up My Heart in Milnathort or TicketWeb AN INTRODUCTION TO STARGAZING RSPB Loch Leven 7pm-9pm Turn your sights to the skies over Loch Leven for an unmissable space discovery evening. Experts from the Dalgety Bay Astronomy Club host this special event, bringing with them top kit and tips. Booking essential.

RSPB members £10 (child members £4) non-members £12 (child £6).

Wed 21 Nov FALKLAND LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENT Falkland Town Hall 12pm-10pm The first of 3 Wednesdays of festive shopping.

Peruse 2 floors filled with an array of local arts and crafts. A perfect opportunity to pick up unique Christmas gifts.

NCT BUMPS AND BABIES GROUP Tulloch Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 12 months. £2 to cover costs, refreshment and cake provided.

Thur 22 Nov WILD WOODLANDS: TREMENDOUS TREES Quarrymill Woodland Park, Scone, Perth 10am-11.30am Come and join us at Quarrymill Woodland Park for a morning of play and discovery.

This popular monthly event, for families with pre-school children, starts with a walk into the woods followed by lots of seasonal and wildlife inspired fun. Please come dressed for the weather and bring a small snack as being outdoors can be hungry work!

Free but booking is essential on 01577 862355 or email miranda.shephard@rspb.org.uk Fri 23 Nov NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

Sat 24 & Sun 25 Nov PERTHSHIRE CREATES CHRISTMAS DESIGN MARKET Civic Hall, 2 High Street, Perth 10am-4.30pm Find unusual, original and contemporary hand-made gifts at our popup Christmas Design Market showcasing the work of 42 makers over 2 days. Free entry.

CHRISTMAS EMPORIUM The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews 11am-4pm Our Emporium has grown and grown since its

inception in 2012 and is now a major event in the St Andrews calendar. It attracts many of the region’s very best companies from the world of arts and crafts as well as food and drink exhibiting throughout the hotel, along with providing an excellent opportunity to shop for beautiful Christmas gifts.

The entire hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland with stunning seasonal decorations, carol singers, open fires, a mouthwatering collection of food and drink experiences and – of course – one very special guest!

Father Christmas himself joins us in his grotto. 1pm-2.30pm Cake decorating for all ages (children decorate gingerbread houses).

Sat 24 Nov FAIR CITY MARKET Perth City Centre 9am-4.30pm Enjoy browsing a wide variety of stalls at this great mixed market.

KIRKCALDY FARMERS’ MARKET Town Square, Wemyssfield 9am-1pm CHRISTMAS FAIR @ LAURISTON DUNFERMLINE Lauriston Nursery, Dunfermline 10am-1pm Come along to our annual Christmas Fair. Lots of local stall holders, children’s crafts, cake and candy and lots more.

MUSEUM EXPLORER’S CLUB: WE WILL REMEMBER THEM Black Watch Castle and Museum, Perth 1.30pm-4pm Discover how the poppy became such an important remembrance symbol as we create our own clay structure inspired by the Poppies: Weeping Window installation. £5 per child (drink, snack and Museum Explorer’s polo shirt included) or free with Museum family annual pass.

Ages 7-12 01738 638152 to book.

ST ANDREWS SCHOLARSHIP FLUTE ENSEMBLE WITH AISLING AGNEW AND EIMEAR MCGEOWN Bell Pettigrew Museum, St Andrews, KY16 9TS 2.30pm-3.15pm Join us for a very special ‘Music in Museums’ event - associate teacher Aisling Agnew takes a programme of classical and traditional music for flutes to the Bell Pettigrew Museum with special guest Eimear McGeown.

Eimear is one of the world’s most versatile exponents of both the classical and Irish flute. Suitable for all ages. Free, no booking required. For more information contact: museumlearning@st-andrews.ac.uk 01334 461663/461660 CUPAR’S CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON AND CHRISTMAS MARKET Cupar From 10am An indoor Christmas Market with lots of new stalls this year. Outside entertainment will be happening from 10am. www.familiesfife.co.uk

There will also be a fun fair and street market with new stalls too.

For more details please check out the Cupar at Christmas Facebook page.

CRIEFF CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON & COMBINED MARKET James Square, Crieff The fun starts at 2pm with the main switch on of all the lights at 4.30pm. A number of associated activities including a visit from Santa and his helpers is planned.

FESTIVE STREET MARKET & LIGHT UP KINROSS High Street, Kinross 4pm-7pm A great variety of market stalls, carol singing, music and festive atmosphere. Come along for some good Christmas Shopping, mulled wine and festive entertainment! The Light Up Kinross celebration is at 7pm.

KIRKCALDY 4 ALL LANTERN PARADE & CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON High Street & Town Square From 4.30pm Lantern parade and Christmas lights switch-on in the High Street, followed by a musical performance by local schools and a spectacular firework display at the Town Square. For more info www.kirkcaldy4all.co.uk Sun 25 Nov CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Anstruther Town Hall 11am-4pm Come along and start your Christmas shopping at Anstruther Town Hall!

Santa’s Grotto, Face Painting, Craft Stalls, Teas/coffees and mulled wine.

Free entry.

FIFE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC FAMILY FUNDAY OF MUSICMAKING Dunfermline High School, Jennie Rennies Road, KY11 3BQ 12pm-4pm A great day out for all the family, from babes to grandparents, neighbours and all. Come and join us!

Activities include ‘Come and try’ workshops- ukulele, drum kit, musicmaking for tots, samba singing. There are performances by local musicians and notably Travelling by Tuba from Manchester – ‘too good to miss, family entertainment, hugely educational’. Also face painting, colouring-in, a family quiz and the Festival Shop. Free entry, with funding support from Carnegie Dunfermline Trust, the Barbara McManus Memorial Fund and Fife Festival of Music. www.ffom.org.uk THE CIRCLE YULETIDE FAIR The Circle Dundee, DD2 3SX 12pm-4pm We are hosting our first Yuletide Fair to celebrate 2 years since the launch of The Circle. We are partnering up with our tenants to bring an afternoon of festive fun, including festive food and drinks, local business stalls, Sant’s grotto and much more! Free entry. All www.familiesfife.co.uk

proceeds from the Yuletide Fair will be going towards The Circle Community Fund. You can let us know if you will be coming along by registering for free at thecircleyuletidefair.eventbrite.co.uk WILDLIFE EXPLORERS RSPB Loch Leven 1pm-3pm Loch Leven Wildlife Explorers group is open to children aged 5-12 years and takes place on the last Sunday of the month between August and June. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. To register for the group please contact lochlevenWEX@rspb.org.uk The annual fee is £15 or £10 for RSPB Members.

Mon 26 & Tues 27 Nov SCONE PALACE CHRISTMAS FAIR IN AID OF CANCER RESEARCH UK Scone Palace, Scone 26 Nov 4pm-8pm 27 Nov 10am-4pm There will be lots of wonderful gifts, cards, decorations and speciality foods which have been specially selected for their originality, quality, and craftmanship.

Entrance fee payable on arrival. £6 per person. The Old Servants’ Hall Coffee Shop and Gift Shop will be open on both dates.

Please note that this event is not suitable for young children and prams/pushchairs are not permitted within the Palace.

Tues 27 Nov LEARN TO IDENTIFY TREES IN WINTER Quarrymill Woodland Park, Scone, Perth 10am-12pm Ever wondered which tree is which? If so, come and join us during National Tree Week 2018 as we look at how to tell the difference as well as learn more about how we’ve used trees throughout history. This free event is aimed at adults and families with older children (7+).

Call 01577 862355 or email miranda.shephard@rspb.org.uk to book your place.

Wed 28 Nov FALKLAND LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENT Falkland Town Hall 12pm-10pm The second of 3 Wednesdays of festive shopping.

Peruse 2 floors filled with an array of local arts and crafts. A perfect opportunity to pick up unique Christmas gifts.

NCT BUMPS AND BABIES GROUP Tulloch Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 12 months. £2 to cover costs, refreshment and cake provided.

Thur 29 Nov CHRISTMAS NIGHT MARKET The Stables at Taypark House, Dundee

5pm-9pm Kick off the festive spirit at our first Christmas Night Market (also Thurs 6th and Thurs 13th December). Free gin, beer, and soft drink tastings, along with Christmas music and serving delicious hot chocolate, mulled wine and festive wood-fired pizzas from our wood-kitchen.

Not to mention the fantastic local produce, crafts, home furnishings, giftware, jewellery, and art work on sale as well as an amazing festive atmosphere in our 150 year old stable, courtyard, and our outdoor teepees with fire pits and rustic benches.

Fri 30 Nov NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

MEET THE AUTHOR: MURDER MYSTERIES AND BUN BREAKS WITH ROBIN STEVENS Loch Leven Community Campus, Kinross 6pm Author of the ‘Murder Most Unladylike’ series, Robin Stevens, will talk about her detective duo Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong and their latest mystery ‘Death in the Spotlight’. Find out why Robin is so fascinated with murder mysteries, what makes a great detective and help create and solve a unique mystery of your very own… There will also be a chance to ask any burning questions you have for Robin, like any good detective! Ages 9+. For tickets (adults £5, child £3) to go Loch Leven Community Library, Macbeth Currie Estate Agent in Kinross, Light Up My Heart in Milnathort or TicketWeb

LOOKING FOR A FAMILY PANTOMIME? Check out our feature on p8&9 for a rundown on the brilliant shows to choose from!

Sat 1 Dec ST ANDREWS FARMERS’ MARKET Argyle St Car Park, St Andrews 9am-1pm PERTH FARMERS’ MARKET King Edward Street, Perth 9am-2pm ST ANDREW’S DAY CELEBRATIONS South Street, St Andrews 10am-10pm Celebrate Scotland’s

Patron Saint Andrew right here in St Andrews! Where ancient traditions meet future ambitions.

An exciting and fun filled day is planned for everyone to enjoy.

Here is a sneak peek of what you can expect on the day: Fireworks, Torch Parade, Street Ceilidh, Live Music, Market, and more.

CRAFTED CHRISTMAS MARKET Dundee Contemporary Arts, DD1 4DY 11.30am-5.30pm CRAFTED, our Christmas Craft and Design Market is back! Get in the festive spirit and buy directly from talented independent designers and makers. We’re excited to be bringing together some of the best contemporary makers from across Scotland, all under one roof! With jewellery, textiles, illustration, print, homeware and more, you’re sure to find unique gifts for family, friends and maybe even yourself.

NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

ROMANIA DAY Horsecross Plaza, Perth City Centre 12pm-4pm Visit the specialist Romanian market for a food and drink, produce, and gifts celebrating the best of Romanian culture.

FALKLAND WINTER FESTIVAL Sugar Acre Gardens, Falkland 12pm-6pm Falkland’s annual Winter Festival has a wide range of activities, including amusement rides, craft stalls, food, entertainment, and Santa!

Fun for all the family.

PERTH LANTERN PARADE AND NATIVITY SCENE Perth City Centre From 5pm Parade from St Ninian’s Church to St John’s Kirk with carols, bell ringings and the unveiling of the Nativity Scene.

PARTY SATURDAY High Street & Mercat Centre, Kirkcaldy Join in the countdown to Christmas in Kirkcaldy with Kirkcaldy 4 All and Mercat Shopping Centre. Entertainment, crafts, and giveaways.

WOODLAND WELLBEING Quarrymill Woodland Park, Scone, Perth 10am-12pm Join us during National Tree Week 2018 as we explore how being outdoors amongst trees can benefit both ourselves and wildlife. We’ll spend some time mindfully exploring the woodland before warming up with a hot drink round a fire. This free event is aimed at adults and families with older children (10+).

Call 01577 862355 or email miranda.shephard@rspb.org.uk to book your place.

Families Fife 13

Out and about dates for your diary Sun 2 Dec TREE DRESSING DAY Quarrymill Woodland Park, Scone, Perth 11am-2pm Join us as we get creative and decorate the trees at Quarrymill with treats for the birds. Make your own tree decorations to take home and take part in a woodland themed wild challenge! Suitable for all.

No need to book, just drop by!

Follow the signs from the Isla Road carpark. For more information get in touch on 01577 862355 or email miranda.shephard@rspb.org.uk ST ANDREWS’ DAY FESTIVAL Perth City Centre 12pm-5pm Celebrate St Andrew’s Day with live music and a marketplace selling food and drink from Scotland’s natural larder.

What better way to get into the Christmas shopping spirit than with a celebration of Scotland’s Patron Saint? Perth’s St Andrew’s Day Festival returns this year in a big, loud, exciting blend of awardwinning live music, great Scottish food and a few wee drams to get the party going! So grab your saltire, dust off your party kilt and hit the streets of Perth City Centre to enjoy a day unlike any other, this is an event not to be missed!

A great day out for the kids, and families will love the big party atmosphere and fun-filled streets.

Make sure you drop into St John’s Shopping Centre for a visit with Santa himself – put simply, you’ll find plenty to entertain the wee ones while you enjoy a dance! This is a free event.

WINTER WREATH WORKSHOP Black Watch Castle and Museum, Perth 1pm-3pm Make your own Festive willow wreath under the skilful guidance of Crieff based artist June McEwan. Make a willow frame and use seasonal inspiration to decorate and personalise your wreath whilst enjoying a hot drink and home-baked mince pie.

Tools, willow and a small variety of decorative materials will be provided. Please bring along your own materials to individualise your creation: pine cones, ribbons, berries etc. £15 per person.

Children over 8 welcome if accompanied by an adult.

01738 638152 to book.

THE LOMOND HILLS HOTEL CHRISTMAS MARKET The Lomond Hills Hotel & Leisure Centre, Freuchie 1pm-5pm Get into the festive spirit with treats, gifts and crafts galore.

As local crafts people from the community show their talents, you may find that unique gift you are looking for.

Tues 4 Dec WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Heaven Scent, Milnathort 10am-2pm Create a magnificent 14 Families Fife

wreath with Bramble & Thyme flowers, choosing from the beautiful decorative materials available, then tuck into one of Heaven Scent’s famous afternoon teas. £55 per person.

Booking required. 01577 865577 info@heavenscentkitchen.co.uk Wed 5 – Sat 22 Dec THE ETHICAL CHRISTMAS FAIR City Square, Dundee 10am-6pm With over 45 stalls inside a beautiful festive decorated marquee, selling gifts that includes soaps, knitwear, candles, jewellery, food and drinks, hot food, wooden gifts, ceramics, pottery, photography, virtual gifts, ladies and mens gifts, fashion and accessories, handbags and a whole lot more. With regular visits from Santa, a seated café area, festive fun and craft activities for the children, warm festive food and drinks and with a fun atmosphere to everyone to enjoy… and lots of other festive surprises!

Wed 5 Dec FALKLAND LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENT Falkland Town Hall 12pm-10pm The third of 3 Wednesdays of festive shopping.

Peruse 2 floors filled with an array of local arts and crafts. A perfect opportunity to pick up unique Christmas gifts.

NCT BUMPS AND BABIES GROUP Tulloch Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 12 months. £2 to cover costs, refreshment and cake provided.

WEE EXPLORERS Discover Point, Dundee, DD1 4XA 2.30pm-3.30pm Stories, craft sessions and messy play for wee ones aged 2-5, inspired by exploration and adventure.

Park your buggy and join us for a coffee. £4 incl. refreshments.

Booking essential www.dundeeheritage.eventbrite.com Thur 6 Dec MESSY MUSEUM Perth Museum and Art Gallery 10.15aam-11am Ages 2-4 11.30am-12.15pm Ages 0-2 Under 5s be prepared to get messy! Fun and creative sessions for our youngest visitors at Perth Museum and Art Gallery. Get messy, get hands on and have fun. An extra t-shirt or apron is recommended. Booking in advance on 01738 632488 is essential and is for 1 child and 1 adult per session.

CHILDREN’S GINGERBREAD TEA Loch Leven’s Larder, Kinross, KY13 9HD 4.30pm-6pm Christmas crafts and a tasty children’s dinner.

For full details and booking call 01592 841000 or visit www.lochlevenslarder.com

Fri 7 – Sun 9 Dec GLAMIS CASTLE CHRISTMAS MARKET Glamis Castle, DD8 1RJ Fri 11am-4pm, Sat & Sun 10am5pm Enjoy a wealth of local gifts from welcoming stallholders, the spectacle of the Castle decorated for Christmas, our amazing gift shop and festive meals in our restaurant. Parking charge £4.

Fri 7 Dec BABY MUSA: CREEPY CRAWLIES Bell Pettigrew Museum, St Andrews, KY16 9TS 10.15am-11.15am Baby MUSA Time allows your little one to discover some of the fantastic things found in museums through stories, songs, games and messy play. Held in the Bell Pettigrew Museum this drop-in activity is for pre-school children and whoever looks after them.

Come along and join in the fun! Free, no booking required.

Bell Pettigrew Museum, Bute Building, Door C, St Mary’s Quad, off South St, St Andrews.

KY16 9TS. Enquiries: Email: museumlearning@st-andrews.ac.uk 01334 461663/461660 WEE WEAVERS Verdant Works, Dundee, DD1 5BT 10.30am-11am Stories, craft sessions and messy play for wee ones aged 2-5, inspired by our museum collection. Park your buggy and join us for a coffee. £4 incl. refreshments.

Booking essential www.dundeeheritage.eventbrite.com NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

GREENER KIRKCALDY CHRISTMAS FAIR Mercat Centre, Kirkcaldy 1pm-4pm Make your own decorations, wreath-making and more! Free to attend.

ANSTRUTHER CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Anstruther From 6pm Bring your friends and family along to this fun event where you will see Santa and his Reindeer. There will be lots going on to entertain the whole family.

Santa’s procession, REAL reindeer, mulled wine, Santa’s Grotto at The Sweetie Shop, facepainting, dance and judo demonstrations (weather permitting).

PLANETARIUM SHOW Mills Observatory, Balgay Park, Dundee 6pm, 7pm & 8pm Take a tour of the night sky and learn about constellations, asteroids, galaxies and the latest news from space.

Suitable for adults and children aged 5 years and over. Adults £1, children 50p. Booking essential on 01382 435967

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Dec SANTA’S GROTTO AT CRAIGTOUN Craigtoun Park, near St Andrews Gift from Santa, Christmas Crafts, Christmas Elf Trail & Storytelling.

Pre-booking required, tel 01334 472013 to book. £7 per child.

Sat 8 Dec DUNFERMLINE FARMERS MARKET Dobbies, Fife Leisure Park 9am-1pm A VERY UNICORN CHRISTMAS! FAMILY FUN DAY AND FAYRE HMS Unicorn, Dundee 11am-4pm Stalls, music, food & drink, kids activities! Perhaps even a visit from Santa himself! Come and join us at HMS Unicorn’s Annual Christmas Fayre!

Kids go free!

CHRISTMAS AT MCMANUS McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum 12pm Get ready for Christmas and join us for a special afternoon of festive fun for all the family! Drop in throughout the afternoon for some Christmas craft popups, Carol Singing with ‘Loadsaweeminsingin Choir’ and magical storytelling sessions for little ones and their grown-ups. And if that’s not got you feeling festive enough... find the perfect gift at The McManus Shop and unwind in our McManus Cafe with some mulled wine and a mince pie! FREE. No need to book, just drop in.

PERTH SANTA RUN Perth City Centre From 12 noon Come join hundreds of runners in a 5k around Perth in a Santa outfit.

A TRIP BACK IN TIME: MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS RSPB Loch Leven 1pm-3pm Join us for a trip back in time with local writer David Munro who tells the story of Mary Queen of Scots’ dramatic escape from Loch Leven Castle 450 years ago. Hear about her 11-month imprisonment on Castle Island and her frequent earlier visits to this corner of Scotland which included a near capture at the foot of Benarty Hill and an encounter in Kinross with the Protestant reformer, John Knox.

Booking essential. RSPB members £8, non-members £10 (child member £3, child non-member £5) CHRISTMAS RING DECORATION St Andrews Museum, Doubledykes Road, KY16 9DP 1.30pm-3.30pm Come and join us to make a Christmas ring decoration. We will be using 16 small squares of fabric, some felt, and a few sequins of beads. If you can sew on a button or thread a needle, you can make one of these.

All materials provided. Families with children 6+ years. Tickets £5, all participants require a ticket which must be purchased in advance at www.onfife.com www.familiesfife.co.uk

SCI CHRISTMAS FAIR The Earthship Fife Visitor Centre, Kinghorn Loch, Kinghorn 2pm-5pm SCI at the Earthship is excited to be having its Christmas Fair in the Earthship and yurt this year! The usual ever-popular wreath-making from natural materials. Some festive storytelling and edible gift making will also be an option. There may be a fun way to upcycle too. Pop into the Barn at the Loch for a hot drink and cake. This is a free family event, with donations welcome.

No booking required. For more information paula@sci-scotland.org.uk 01592 891884 PARTY SATURDAY High Street & Mercat Centre, Kirkcaldy Join in the countdown to Christmas in Kirkcaldy with Kirkcaldy 4 All and Mercat Shopping Centre. Entertainment, crafts, and giveaways.

Sun 9 Dec LOCH LEVEN SANTA RUN Loch Leven’s Larder, Kinross 8am-12pm Loch Leven’s Larder, in association with Tiger Fitness Ltd, bring their first festive Santa Run to this popular venue. There will be 2 event distances to choose from – 5km and 2.5km, both starting at 1pm. All entrants will receive a Santa suit upon registration at Loch Leven’s Larder (the 2.5km runners will also receive a Santa hat). Santa Claus will start the race and set all participants off, together, along the new 2.5km Parkrun pathway around Loch Leven and Channel Farm. The 2.5km entrants will complete 1 lap of the course, with the 5k runners collecting a Santa hat before completing their second lap. All runners will receive a bespoke medal, water, mince pie, Christmas shortbread/ cake along with some festive punch. The event is open to all ages and abilities, making it an excellent family event. The course is suitable for wheelchair uses and even buggies. Registration from 8am in the grounds of Loch Leven’s Larder. www.entrycentral.com/ lochlevensantarun SUNDAY SCREENING Discovery Point, Dundee, DD1 4XA 11am Monthly family film in Polarama, inspired by RRS Discovery. We’ll provide the comfy cushions, you bring some pennies for popcorn! All ages, no booking required, free.

Wed 12 Dec NATURE TOTS: AFTER DARK RSPB Loch Leven 10am-11.30am Come along with your budding wildlife adventurers for a journey through the seasons.

This popular monthly event, for families with children aged 5 and www.familiesfife.co.uk

under, starts with a story and is packed with creative ideas and surprises, getting you outside and playing in nature. Please dress for the weather – pack your wellies!

RSPB Members £4, non-members £6 (per family). Booking essential.

Call 01577862355 or email lochleven@rspb.org.uk NCT BUMPS AND BABIES GROUP Tulloch Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 12 months. £2 to cover costs, refreshment and cake provided.

NCT BUMPS @ THE PUB The Cellar Bar, Perth 7pm-9pm Monthly social evenings for pregnant mums to meet other pregnant mums in a relaxed or informal setting. £3 to cover costs. Refreshments and cake provided.

Thur 13 Dec CHILDREN’S GINGERBREAD TEA Loch Leven’s Larder, Kinross, KY13 9HD 4.30pm-6pm Christmas crafts and a tasty children’s dinner.

For full details and booking call 01592 841000 or visit www.lochlevenslarder.com Fri 14 Dec NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

Sat 15 Dec WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Heaven Scent, Milnathort 10am-2pm Create a magnificent wreath with Bramble & Thyme flowers, choosing from the beautiful decorative materials available, then tuck into one of Heaven Scent’s famous afternoon teas. £55 per person.

Booking required. 01577 865577 info@heavenscentkitchen.co.uk WINTER FESTIVAL Black Watch Castle and Museum, Perth 10am-4pm Discover a day of festive fun for all the family at the Castle and Museum’s annual Winter Festival. Adults free.

Children £5. 01738 638152 to book.

FOLLOW OUR FOOTSTEPS – CHRISTMAS FAIR The Ecology Centre, Kinghorn 11am-4pm Join the Ecology Centre for a Christmas Fayre with a difference. Bring the family for an afternoon of fun eco-crafting and wreathmaking along with local stallholders selling a range of affordable, eco-friendly products that fit with our ethos. We will be joined by the wonderful Kirkcaldy Gilbert & Sullivan society for some carol singing and we will be joined by

other local musicians who will be filling the air with Christmas tunes! We will be serving warmed homemade mince pies, spiced hot apple juice and other Christmassy treats. For wreathmaking, £18 per person, book your place on our website and for all other activities just drop in and enjoy the festive fun www.theecologycentre.org/events/ follow-our-footsteps---christmasfayre Sun 16 Dec STATELY HOME CHRISTMAS Scone Palace, Perth 10am-3pm Visit Scone this Christmas when the Palace exterior is decked with twinkling lights, grand trees and even a glimmering Rudolph! We will be opening our doors and inviting you to see the State Rooms adorned with beautiful decorations, baubles, a magnificent Christmas tree, candles and glimmering lights. We will be joined by the wonderful musical trio, the McAndrew Sisters, who will be singing festive songs and Christmas carols around the Christmas tree. Our coffee shop will be open and serving warming and tempting homebaked treats and you can even do a spot of last minute Christmas shopping in our food and gift shops. Tickets available online or on arrival. £6 per person.

QUARRYMILL ADVENTURES Quarrymill Woodland Park, Scone, Perth 1pm-3.30pm All 8-12 year olds welcome! Each month we go on a journey into the woods to discover and explore the wildlife that lives there along with the seasonal changes that take place throughout the year. Led by RSPB community learning officers this group aims to inspire and engage future generations to enjoy and care for the world we live in and the nature all around us. Free but booking is essential on 01577 862355 or email miranda.shephard@rspb.org.uk Wed 19 Dec NCT BUMPS AND BABIES GROUP Tulloch Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 12 months. £2 to cover costs, refreshment and cake provided.

Thur 20 Dec WILD WOODLANDS: WINTER TREATS Quarrymill Woodland Park, Scone, Perth 10am-11.30am Come and join us at Quarrymill Woodland Park for a morning of play and discovery.

This popular monthly event, for families with pre-school children, starts with a walk into the woods followed by lots of seasonal

and wildlife inspired fun. Please come dressed for the weather and bring a small snack as being outdoors can be hungry work!

Free but booking is essential on 01577 862355 or email miranda.shephard@rspb.org.uk Fri 21 Dec NCTEENIES Oakbank Community Centre, Perth 1pm-2.30pm Weekly group for parents and babies up to 5 years. £2.50 per family, refreshment and cake provided including snack for child and weekly craft activity.

FESTIVE FAMILY BINGO NIGHT Loch Leven’s Larder, Kinross, KY13 9HD 5pm-8pm It’s become a Christmas tradition at LLL to kick off the holidays with a delicious comfort-food dinner and fun family bingo! For full details and booking call 01592841000 or visit www.lochlevenslarder.com Tues 25 Dec

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas! and a Happy New Year Thur 27 & Fri 28 Dec WINTER WONDERLAND CLUB North East Fife (Falkland, Cupar) 10am-4pm A chance to build a den, light a fire, use tools, play games, watch wildlife and more.

Come and have fun! Ages 6-12 years. Early bird discount rate of £44 for 2 days if booked before 12th Dec (Ts & Cs apply). £54 for 2 days thereafter. Fully insured, disclosed, qualified experienced Forest School leader. Booking essential. Contact: chris.childe_education@yahoo.co.uk Tel 01337 830621 Mob 07587 893190 Mon 31 Dec COMRIE’S HOGMANAY FLAMBEAUX Comrie Midnight Celebrate the New Year at the traditional Comrie Flambeaux parade.

Tues 1 Jan PITLOCHRY NEW YEAR STREET PARTY Atholl Road, Pitlochry 1pm-4pm Enjoy a real community New Year Party in the beautiful Highland Perthshire town of Pitlochry.

Families Fife 15

The Polar Bears and Unicorn present

go up!

Visit Perth Theatre Bar & Café and Glassrooms Café at Perth Concert Hall for breakfast, lunch and pre-show meals, freshly prepared using only the finest local ingredients.

Glassrooms Café Open Mon - Sat: 10am - 4.30pm Pre-show meals: 5pm - 7pm Tel: 01738 477724

Wed 12 – Sun 23 Dec

Joan Knight Studio | Perth Theatre

Perth Theatre Café & Theatre Bar Open Mon - Thu: 9am - 7pm Fri + Sat: 9am - 11pm Tel: 01738 477755

‘If you’re under five, this is your show’  A Younger Theatre

horsecross.co.uk

Tickets: 01738 621031 | www.horsecross.co.uk Thanks to our partners and funders

Thanks to our partners and funders

Horsecross Arts Ltd is registered in Scotland, no SC301328 and a charity no SC022400.

Catering Advert_JUL17.indd 1

17/07/2017 12:28:03

It’s the 2018 St Andrews Panto...

byretheatre

29 November 2018 - 5 January 2019

A family pantomine Written & Directed

by Gordon Barr

Thanks to friends of the Byre for supporting this production

Box Office: 01334 475 000 / www.byretheatre.com The Byre Theatre | University of St Andrews | Abbey Street | St Andrews | Fife KY16 9LA.

16 Families Fife

The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland. No.SC013532.

www.familiesfife.co.uk