Ten Things To Do This Week: 29/9/14 – 5/10/14

By Contributor -

The Enchanted Forest. Photo by Graham Smith

1. Creative Mackintosh
From October 1 until the end of the month, Glasgow’s Creative Mackintosh Festival celebrates Charles Rennie Mackintosh, his architecture, design and legacy by showcasing his buildings and highlighting his legacy. Various prices.

2. Enjoy A Tryst or Two!

Founded by composer James MacMillan, The Cumnock Tryst (October 2-5) has attracted some of the world’s greatest musicians, who will be performing in churches and halls throughout this East Ayrshire town. Prices vary.

3. Say Cheers!

Toast the 40th Anniversary of CAMRA in Scotland at one of Scotland’s largest real ale festivals.The Ayrshire Real Ale Festival, from 2-4 October, features over 120 beers, of which at least half are sourced from Scottish breweries, and also a selection of cider, perry, wine and soft drinks, accompanied by food and entertainment. Admission £5.

4. Fall Under The Spell Of The Forest

The woods around Pitlochry are transformed into the Enchanted Forest from October 3-26, with a dazzling light show, specially-composed musical score and, for the first time, performers high in the trees. Children under-3 free, 3-15 from £7, adults from £14.

5. Get Classical

For ten days from October 3, Haddo Arts Festival brings together nationally-renowned performers and artists alongside the distinctive, talented voices of the North East. Located at Haddo House, the festival features Haddo House Choral & Operatic Society, Scottish Opera, the Hebrides Ensemble, Tweedy the Clown, top vocal coach Mary King, Jazz singer Alison Burns, world famous pianist Cristina Ortiz and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Various prices.

6. Eat To The Beat!

From October 3 – 19, Royal Deeside will be filled with the sounds of violins and the aroma of cooking at the Food & Fiddle Fortnight. Great food, drink and music events are happening throughout Royal Deeside, including a traditional music night at the Boat Inn, Aboyne (musicians and spectators welcome), Steak & Seafood Night at Balwade Farm and Dinner With A Diva at Banchory Lodge Hotel. Various prices.

7. Stir!

Head off to Carrbridge on October 4 for the Golden Spurtle Porridge Championship – Scotland’s breakfast version of The Olympics! Porridge experts from across the globe will start making their porridge at 11am that day as they battle for the title of World Porridge Making Champion.

8. Go To The Flicks

This year. Aberdeen’s International Film Festival (4-12 October) focuses on movies from Japan but there are also films from across the world, including the pick of the current crop of cinema releases with a Scottish connection. Various prices.

9. Go Back In Time

Visitors to Stirling Castle on October 4 and 5 can step back to 1914 and discover the integral role the historic castle played during World War 1, when it was a recruitment centre. Children £7.50, adult £14, concessions available. www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk

10. Celebrate The Wonder of Woollies!

From 4-12 October, Shetland Wool Week highlights the local textile industry (and sheep) with masterclasses in Fair Isle and Fine Lace as well as workshops in hand-spinning, weaving and felting.