Focus on the future as Holyrood sets out its plans to mark 25 years

Reflecting on 25 years of the Scottish Parliament as well as a focus on the future will be the central themes of plans announced today to mark the Parliament’s institutions’ quarter century. 

The Scottish Parliament plans include a year-long programme of engagement designed to involve people throughout Scotland in a conversation that both reflects on devolution and considers how we can shape the Parliament in future.  

A special event will take place on Saturday 29 June at the Scottish Parliament which people across Scotland will be invited to join. Further details  will be announced in the coming weeks.

The Presiding Officer will also visit regions all over Scotland, meeting people from all walks of life to hear their views and ideas for the future. These activities, together with other events to be announced, will enable communities up and down the country to help shape the Parliament of the future.

The Presiding Officer, the Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP said: “This year we will reflect on the Parliament’s record and the significant political events during 25 years of devolution.  While that reflection is welcome, I also want the Parliament’s focus to be firmly on the future.

“I want to use this milestone as an opportunity to engage people all over country about their aspirations for their Parliament.

“I want to continue to build on and strengthen that relationship between people and Parliament and modernise Holyrood to ensure it meets Scotland’s needs for the coming years.”

Further details for our 25th anniversary will be announced throughout the year.

A special 25th anniversary themed Festival of Politics will take place in the Scottish Parliament in August.

The 25th anniversary year will also explore several themes from the Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee’s report on public participation.

This work identified a gap in our activities around making the Parliament visible in and engaged with local communities.

New experiential events showcase comes to Edinburgh

EXPERIENCEit, the new initiative designed to support the growing market for experiential events in Scotland and across the UK, will showcase its debut event in Edinburgh next month.

Organised by EVENTIT, this unique event will take place on Thursday 8 February 2024 at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC).

EXPERIENCEit celebrates the rise in the desire for experiential events in the UK events industry.

This is a key trend in the industry, with 74% of experiential event attendees saying that they are left with a more positive opinion of the organisation and its offerings afterwards (Event Marketing Institute).

Judith Wilson, Events Director of EVENTIT said: “We’ve launched EXPERIENCEit to bring events professionals together to be inspired, share ideas and insights, and drive our sector forward. We will take people on a journey of incredible sights, great tastes, new smells, fantastic sounds, and numerous opportunities to touch and test.

“The desire for experiential events is continuing to rise and from the plans we’ve seen so far from EXPERIENCEit exhibitors it’s easy to see why. With just two weeks to go until we’re all at the EICC, any last-minute sign-ups don’t have long left as spaces are limited!”

Experiential events often generate significant social media buzz, with attendees more likely to share their experiences on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, amplifying the reach and impact of the event for the brand.

Exhibitors have been encouraged to create immersive and experiential activities, offering delegates a glimpse into the future of event experiences and include Vue Cinemas, Social Jungle, Topgolf Glasgow, Iventis, Kimpton Hotels and Newsquest.

The event will bring together professionals from diverse industries to offer a platform to share, learn and collaborate on the future of experiential events.

EXPERIENCEit will be held on Tuesday 8 February 2024 from 8.30am – 4pm at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) in Edinburgh with tickets costing £75 plus VAT.  For more information and to secure your place visit eventit.org.uk

Tales from the Witches Sabbath

Free Event celebrating McDonald Road Library’s 120th anniversary

‘Tales From The Witches Sabbath’ aims to highlight the persecution of women in Scotland’s frightening Witch Trials from the 16th-18th Century.

Joss Cameron, Amy Dudley, both singers, in collaboration with author John Tantalon intertwines stories and songs.

What’s On at National Museums of Scotland

Exhibitions & displays



National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Open 10:00–17:00 daily

Rising Tide: Art and Environment in Oceania
Until 14 Apr 2024
Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3
Free

Delve into the most important and pressing issue of our time, humanity’s damaging relationship with planet Earth. This urgent issue is felt especially deeply in Australia and the Pacific Islands where sea levels are rising due to climate change and the oceans are filling with plastic.

Rising Tide considers our relationship to the natural environment through contemporary artistic responses to climate change and plastic waste by Indigenous Australian and Pacific Islander artists.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Rising-Tide


Uniquely Scottish Silver
Until 26 May 2024
Grand Gallery
Free

Uniquely Scottish Silver brings together five distinct Scottish silver object designs: mazers, quaichs, thistle cups, ovoid urns and heart brooches. Discover some of the earliest and rarest survivals within the Scottish silver smiths’ craft.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Uniquely-Scottish-Silver


Wildlife Photographer of the Year 
20 Jan – 6 May 2024
Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3
Ticketed

In this world-renowned exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, see exceptional images which capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world.

Book now nms.ac.uk/wildlife-photographer-of-the-year

Game On
29 Jun – 3 Nov 2024
Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3
Tickets on sale spring 2024

Get set for Game On – the largest interactive exhibition of the history and the culture of video games. Game On, an exhibition conceived and curated by Barbican Immersive, examines the creative and technological advances that have established a new medium and artform.

From Sonic the Hedgehog to Mario, explore gaming’s rich history through over 100 playable games from the last five decades.

Sign up to our monthly enewsletter to hear more nms.ac.uk/game-on

Events

National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Open 10:00–17:00 daily


Drawn Together at the Museum
27 – 29 Dec
10:30-16:30
Grand Gallery, Level 1
Free, drop-in

Escape to the museum during the holidays and enjoy sketching around our galleries. Join us for this calming, creative activity in the heart of the busy holiday season. Meet our artist-in-residence then pick up a pencil and paper and explore the galleries.

Read more nms.ac.uk/drawn-together

Sprogmanay
1 Jan 2024
14:00-17:00
Grand Gallery, Level 1
Free, drop in

Enjoy a warm welcome to 2024 with music and fun for all the family. Join us for lively performances and vibrant musical activities from the incredible Unicorn Dance Party and Sprog Rock.

Families can drop into this free, unticketed afternoon event to enjoy a programme of live music and fun, and then explore the museum’s galleries packed with fascinating, family-friendly exhibits.

Read more nms.ac.uk/sprogmanay

Museum Late: Big Burns Ceilidh
26 Jan 2024
19:30-22:30
£16-£22 (including exhibition entry)
Strictly 18+

Welcoming back the fantastic Jacobites Ceilidh Band, the Grand Gallery will be brought to life for an evening of music and dancing. The band will have late goers twirling and birling as they’re guided through Strip the Willow, Dashing White Sergeant and other traditional dances. Between the sets guests can enjoy drinks, food, activities and a chance to enjoy the museum galleries at night, plus our exhibition Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition will be free entry.

Book your ticket nms.ac.uk/museum-late

Voices of the Sea: From Orkney to Oceania
3 Feb 2024
10:30- 12:00
Auditorium, Level 1

Ticketed, various pricing

Join us at the National Museum of Scotland for a selection of film screenings followed by a reflective panel discussion. Inspired by our current exhibition, Rising Tide: Art and Environment in Oceania, learn how the sea is a crucial source of ecology, economy and cultural heritage.

Book now nms.ac.uk/voices-from-the-sea


Curiosity Club
Until 24 Feb 2024
10:30 – 12:00
£10 (Members and Concessions £9)

Unleash your creativity and curiosity topic each month, we’ve captured some of the museum’s most exciting and child friendly collections and themes, for kids to explore through games, activities, and visits to some of our most interactive galleries.

Book now nms.ac.uk/curiosity-club

Friday Friends
Until 28 Jun 2024
Selected Friday afternoons
14:00 – 16:00
Free, pre-booking required

Our Friday Friends programme offers a welcoming space for visually impaired and D/deaf children and their families. The groups meet monthly and explore the themes of the museum through objects, music, art and activities.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/friday-friends


National Museum of Rural Life
Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR
Open 10:00–17:00 daily


February Folk Stories
12 –14 Feb 2024
10:30 –15:30
Learning Centre and Theatre
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass

During February half term, join us at the National Museum of Rural Life for Scottish folk stories and hands-on activities.

Book now nms.ac.uk/february-folk-stories

National Museum of Flight
East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF

Second World War East Fortune
10 – 11 Feb 2024
11:00-15:00
Concorde Hangar
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass

Discover the history of one of Britain’s best-preserved Second World War airfields. Our costumed interpreter will take you through Air Raid Precautions and talk about the shelters on site, explaining what it was like to use them. Handle genuine military flying clothing from the period and discover what was good and bad about it.

Book now nms.ac.uk/second-world-war-east-fortune

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For booking, opening times and location details, contact National Museums Scotland on 0300 123 6789 

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay announce free New Year’s Day programme

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay has today announced an incredible programme of free events to start 2024, as First Footin’ and Sprogmanay return on New Year’s Day, inviting audiences to enjoy a free programme of music and live events in venues and city centre attractions throughout the capital’s Old and New Towns. 

First Footin’ invites audiences to explore the historic city, discovering an eclectic range of live music in outstanding venues, embracing Hogmanay traditions of friendship, love, and resolution, not forgetting some delicious food and drink along the way.  

Featuring some of Scotland’s most beloved artists alongside exciting newcomers and some very special guests, music-lovers can enjoy an afternoon of performance and guest collaborations from award-winning artists including LauFergus McCreadieKathryn Joseph, Hot Chip (DJ set), Bemz, Cloth, Sean Shibe and much more, to welcome in 2024 on New Year’s Day.  

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, created and produced by UniqueAssembly on behalf of City of Edinburgh Council, has collaborated with award-winning musician and composer Aidan O’Rourke to curate the First Footin’ programme, which is funded by the Scottish Government’s Festivals Expo Fund and supported by Essential Edinburgh and Cold Town Beer.

On the afternoon of 1 January, locals and tourists alike can enjoy live music at the First Footin’ culture trail, with performances ranging from folk to rap, indie to classical, and much more.   

Aidan O’Rourke, Lau who guest curated the First Footin’ programme said: “The first day of the new year. Normal rules don’t apply. Emotions are big and wobbly. Hopes are high. The light seems different. Resolutions are … pending.

“We might feel refreshed but also (possibly) heftily hungover. A special sensitivity! A perfect day for listening, resetting, turning off the phones and sitting still for a moment or several. It’s been a joy to curate these free concerts: incredible musicians playing in up-close, low-key and immersive settings.” 

First Footin’ highlights include:  

  • An exclusive collaboration between pioneering folk trio Lau, who will be joined by special guest and cult singer-songwriter Kathryn Joseph for a New Year’s Day party like no other at St Giles’ Cathedral, greeting their first-footers with songs and a warm welcome 
  • Aspecial day time club event at Virgin Hotel with very special guests Hot Chip (DJ Set) and guest DJs 
  • An afternoon of award-winning jazz from Fergus McCreadie Trio and special guests Juliette Lemoine & Chris Amer at Greyfriars Kirk 
  • Edinburgh bornguitarist and recipient of the 2022 Leonard Bernstein Award Sean Shibe and special guest violinist Mira Benjamin at the Fruitmarket Gallery 
  • Live music score performed by the Graeme Stephen Trio to classic silent movies, at the new St Andrew Square Spiegeltent 
  • An afternoon of ceilidh dancing with Mull’s Hannah Fisher Ceilidh Band at the Assembly Rooms Ballroom 
  • Plus an evening of revelry at the First Footin’ Sessions with Cold Town Beer taking place in Edinburgh’s best city centre pubs and bars 
  • In a special collaboration with The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award and partners Stirling Council, First Footin’ will this year welcome a selection of 2023’s Shortlisted artists to the live music trail, with nominees Becky SikasaBemzCloth, and this year’s Sound of Young Scotland winner No Windows performing at the Assembly Rooms Music Hall. Named amongst the 10 most outstanding Scottish Albums of the Year, this showcase of SAY Award alumni presents the very best in contemporary Scottish music. 

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said: “I’m delighted to see the announcement of this year’s First Footin’ and Sprogmanay. Residents and visitors alike will be able to enjoy the start of 2024 with an eclectic, exciting and free programme of events.

“From experimental folk music, to award-winning rap, all the way to arts, crafts and family activities there is truly something for everyone of all ages.  

I’d like to thank the organisers for their efforts, and I can’t wait to experience what this year has in store for our city.” 

A spokesperson from UniqueAssembly who produce Edinburgh’s Hogmanay on behalf of City of Edinburgh Council said: “We’re thrilled to be able to announce our free New Year’s Day activity thanks to support from the Scottish Government’s Festivals Expo Fund.

“With family events at the National Museum of Scotland and Assembly Roxy, and an eclectic music trail across the city, there’s hopefully something for everyone to enjoy. 

This is the second year of our First Footin’ Culture Trail – an opportunity for music fans to see some of Scotland’s best local talent alongside international acts right on their doorstep. The Festivals Expo Fund has enabled us to continue this new tradition, showcasing the amazing artists performing in Scotland year round and the incredible live music venues that support them.” 

First Footin’ takes place at venues throughout the city from 2pm – 8pm on New Year’s Day. A full line-up of artists and venues along with First Footin’ trail map will be released in early December, for participants to plan their fun-packed New Year’s Day. 

Celebrations for families and young revellers run throughout New Year’s Day with the return of the hugely popular Sprogmanay in collaboration with the National Museum of Scotland. Enjoy lively performances and activities for all the family with a vibrant free programme including; music performances from Unicorn Dance Party and Sprog Rock, arts and crafts, and the ‘Resolution Tree’, where children are invited to write their hopes and ambitions for 2024 on a star – sure to be a special moment for families on the first day of the New Year.  

Dance the day away at the Sprogmanay Family Ceilidh hosted by the incredible Fruin Ceilidh Band at Assembly Roxy. The fun, relaxed environment is the perfect chance to embrace tradition and introduce the kids to a classic ceilidh for the first time with an expert caller on hand to ensure everyone of all ability can join in. Running all afternoon, families are invited to stay for the afternoon or drop in and out of sessions to catch their breath! 

Sprogmanay and First Footin’ Culture Trail round off four days of world-class celebrations in Edinburgh to welcome in the New Year, thanks to support from the Scottish Government’s Festivals Expo Fund.  

Celebrations begin on 29 December with the Torchlight Procession and Ho-Ho-Hogmanay, plus the Night Afore Disco Party and Night Afore Hoolie on 30 December.

On Hogmanay night itself New Year Revels with its all-night ceilidh, makes a welcome return to Assembly Rooms, while Princes Street and Princes Street Gardens will host 50,000 party goers at the world-famous Street Party and Concert in the Gardens with Pulp and special guests Hot Chip (DJ set). 

Further information and tickets for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 30th anniversary celebrations are available now from www.edinburghshogmanay.com

Experience the magic of Christmas at Cragies Farm Santa Adventure

Get ready to embark on a magical journey like no other as Craigies Farm presents “Santa Adventure,” an enchanting Christmas event that promises to transport you to a world of twinkling lights, festive wonder, and heartwarming moments. Building on the resounding success of previous years, Christmas at Craigies is back, bigger and better than ever before.

Experience the Magic of Craigies as we invite you to step through the magic door and embark on a captivating journey to the North Pole, where you will play a crucial role in saving Christmas. Craigie’s Farm have teamed up with NL Productions to transform their polytunnels into a dazzling display of colourful lights, creating an immersive lighting experience that will leave you spellbound.

A Quest to Save Christmas – Santa Claus has encountered a problem of epic proportions – he’s lost the magical word that powers the start of his sleigh. Now, it’s up to you to join this magical quest and help Santa recover the missing word. The fate of Christmas itself hangs in the balance.

As you journey through the North Pole, you’ll encounter beloved characters, including Mrs. Claus, Santa’s industrious elves, and a host of other surprises, making your adventure all the more memorable.

Craigies’ Santa Adventure is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchantment of Christmas and create cherished memories with your loved ones.

Families will enjoy one-on-one time with Santa, ensuring an intimate and high-quality experience. Upon successfully helping Santa and saving Christmas, you’ll be rewarded with a special gift to take home as a token of gratitude for your invaluable assistance.

John Sinclair, Managing Director of Craigies commented, “At Craigies Farm, we have always prided ourselves on delivering a quality Christmas experience where the focus is on spending time with family and having fun together.

“We are building on the success of previous years and partnering with NL Productions to create an immersive lighting experience within our polytunnels.

“The experience will once again feature amazing performers who will guide families on a great adventure to the North Pole, playing a crucial role in saving Christmas. There is guaranteed fun for both adults and children, ensuring everyone can create unforgettable festive memories together.”

Phil O’Halloran, NL Productions Event Producer, shares his enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the magical experience, commenting: “It is fantastic to once again be partnering with Craigies Farm.

“Halloween at Craigies has been a great success, and it is very exciting to now be converting the polytunnels into a beautiful winter wonderland. Craigies has a reputation for a quality family experience at Christmas, and we can’t wait to add another level of immersion this year.

“We can’t wait to see families enjoying their adventure to the North Pole!”

Dates and Times

Dates: 25th November – 23rd December

  • 25th – 26th November
  • 2nd – 3rd December
  • 9th – 10th December
  • 16th – 17th December
  • 23rd December

Times: 9am – 5pm each day

Join us at Craigies for a winter wonderland like no other. For more information, ticket bookings, and updates, visit our website https://craigies.co.uk/

November News from Heart of Newhaven

Autumn is truly upon us and with autumn comes tidying up the garden. Here at the Heart, a volunteer team from British Gas worked hard in the grounds last month and seemed to enjoy themselves – they want to come back next year anyway!

Tools  were borrowed from the Tool Library and a tremendous amount was achieved: encroaching vegetation on the decking behind the Anchor Building was cut back and part of the decking covered in chicken wire to prevent slips; hedges were trimmed, litter was picked and rotten planters and sheds were demolished or righted as necessary.

A van load of prunings was removed, but there was still a lot of green waste.

Some of this was chopped into rubble bags and the rest was piled out of sight next to the garden shed. Perhaps we can make a bug hotel out of it.

There’s still work to do, of course, including digging out the mugwort and finishing the chicken wire, so if you’d like to get involved, remember that the gardening group meets every Thursday morning, from 10 till 1

.Remember too to dress for the weather! It is autumn, after all.

Halloween ceilidh

Autumn also means that witches, fairies, ghosts and pumpkins  were to be found reeling and wheeling at our Halloween Family Ceilidh on Saturday 28thOctober.

Head witch Norma was in charge of proceedings, ably assisted by under-witch Leslie, who looked after the dooking for apples while both children and adults had their faces painted by Ailie, and were fed by loads of spookily decorated biscuits and cakes supplied by Lesley and the Ukrainian Spiders.  

There were plenty of other helpers on hand to assist and everyone commented on the warmth of the event and how family-friendly it was. Don’t miss the next one!

Oyster Day Celebration

Around 70 people came along to celebrate the native oyster and took part in Restoration Forth’s marine-themed craft activities on Saturday 21st October.

They were treated to a performance by the Newhaven Choir and were able to learn the fascinating history of oysters in Edinburgh and catch up on what is being done to restore the oyster beds and the health of the river Forth.

Photos: Espen Helland

Coming up:

Fair Saturday, 25th November

Every last Saturday of November, the day after Black Friday, people in different parts of the world join together by supporting a social project of their choice. Here at the Heart we will be joining in and promoting fairness and social equality through our various offerings.

Come along on Saturday 25th and look at the tremendous amount of objects recently made or repaired by the Men’s Shed. They will be for sale at fair prices.

Similarly, the History of Education Centre will be offering many surplus objects from their collection, such as old school posters and books, in return for donations.

There will be plenty of other offerings. Come along, have a cuppa and investigate.

Cyrenian Lunch Club, Mondays

Starting on Monday 6th November, and running weekly thereafter, the Cyrenian Lunch Club will be taking place at the Heart from 12.30 till 2pm. The Cyrenians try to tackle the causes and consequences of homelessness and the launch of the new lunch club is simply one part of that. The lunches are free and open to all.

They’ll be serving a nutritious two-course meal along with tea/coffee. Some weeks there will also be entertainment to enjoy. Simply turn up.

There’s no need to book unless you have specific dietary requirements they need to know of in advance, in which case contact amandasomerville@cyrenians.scot or call 0131 554 3900

New Pilates classes

We have a new offering on Saturdays at the Heart. Kirsty Pollock is offering Community Pilates for beginners/improvers and complete beginners on Saturday mornings.  Contact Kirsty at kpollock008@gmail.com or call her on 07842657411.  Classes start at 10am and 11am. You can just drop in and try it or sign up for a block of classes.

Folk Club

Leith Folk Club have made their regular home with us and their next gig is coming up on Tuesday 7thNovember. This event is part of a special John Renbourn Project Tour and will feature guitarists Clive Carroll and Dariush Kanani. Doors open at 7.30 for an eight o’clock start and remember it’s not just for members. Anyone is welcome.  Tickets on the door. Check their website for more details.

Reminiscence

Come along and share your memories with the Reminiscence group.

Next dates are 23rd November and 21st December, 10.30 – 11.13.

Free to attend, with a different theme each time.

Coffee at the Heart

Join us for a cuppa and biscuits on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, 9  – 12.  Remember that on Wednesdays Ace-It will be there with free advice and support for problems with your laptop, phone or tablet.

Ginger

Children’s show at the Heart.

We are looking forward to seeing a performance from partners, Tortoise in a Nutshell.

Saturday 2nd December

Performances at 10.30 – 11.30am and 1.45 – 2.45pm

Cost: ‘Pay what you think’

Ginger tells the tale of a misshapen gingerbread man ,discarded and marked for the bin. We follow Ginger a he tries to find his place in a kitchen where all confectionery looks the same.  

Dynamic puppetry, multi-sensory performance and immersive soundscape combine to create an anarchic adventure for families and 3-7year olds.

Ginger on Vimeo

Wine Tasting Night

Tickets are extremely limited and are online only.

£15 per person (plus Eventbrite booking fee).

Tickets available via this link https://tinyurl.com/4ee4955c

All-star comedy line-up for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 

Get ready to giggle your way into the new year as organisers of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay announce an all-star line-up for its Ho Ho Hogmanay comedy show on Friday 29 December.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, presented by UniqueAssembly on behalf of City of Edinburgh Council, will run Friday 29 December 2023 – Monday 1 January 2024.

Ho Ho Hogmanay marks a welcome return for Hogmanay celebrations at Edinburgh’s Assembly Rooms and will close the first day of the four-day festival for the New Year.  

The line-up for the evening will be hosted by Live at the Apollo’s Emmanuel Sonubi, and will feature Edinburgh’s Hogmanay alumnus and Scottish comedy royalty Susie McCabe alongside her compatriots, award-winning Larry Dean, and the inimitable Fred MacAulay

Emmanuel Sonubi is the epitome of the phrase ‘star of the future’, This year he was nominated for Best Show at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards after being nominated for Best Newcomer the previous year. He recently hosted Live at the Apollo and appeared on Have I Got News For You. In the near future he will appear in an episode of QI and Celebrity Pointless, Rosie Jones’ new show Out of Order and lastly Rhod Gilberts Growing Pains. Working with the likes of Jason Manford, Jack Whitehall, Romesh Ranganathan and John Bishop, and with over 10 million views online, Emmanuel is quickly becoming a household name.   

Emmanuel Sonubi looked forward to the event, saying: “Edinburgh is one of my favourite places to perform. It’s where I was nominated for Best Newcomer and then Best Show from the lovely people at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards. “So it’s an absolute pleasure to be invited to perform at the iconic Assembly Rooms where I have seen some of the best comedians of my lifetime perform. I can’t wait!” 

Susie McCabe’s rise through the ranks of stand-up has been nothing short of meteoric. Her brilliant storytelling, acute observations and killer punchlines have made her one of the most sought-after performers in the UK.

She has supported the likes of Kevin Bridges, Frankie Boyle, Ardal O’Hanlon, John Bishop and Jason Manford on their national tours. A firm festival favourite, Susie has enjoyed five sell-out shows at the Glasgow International Comedy Festival and continues to be the fastest-selling artist at the festival, selling out 2 nights at the Glasgow King’s Theatre as well as venues up and down Scotland.  

In addition to her set at Ho Ho Hogmanay, Susie McCabe will repeat her MC duties from Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 2022/23 with an appearance at the Concert in the Gardens on 31 December 2023. 

A hot ticket on the touring circuit, Larry Dean has performed his shows across the UK and Ireland to jam-packed rooms. Larry’s fanbase is international, as a regular at Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Christchurch Buskers Festival, Perth Fringeworld and the invitation-only Montreal Just For Laughs Comedy Festival.  

Having presented the very funny and eventful MacAulay and Co. on BBC Radio Scotland for almost 18 years and with a string of tv appearances, Fred MacAuley’s on-air witticisms and on-screen reputation are the product of years of experience on the live circuit, including a stint as the first ever-Scottish compere at the Comedy Store in London. 

Ho Ho Hogmanay will close the first day of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay four-day programme to bring in the New Year. Earlier on 29 December, an anticipated 20,000 people will shine a light on homelessness at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Torchlight Procession with official charity partner Social Bite, blazing a trail through the capital’s Old Town.  

Celebrations continue with Night Afore Revels and the Night Afore Disco Party on 30 December.

On Hogmanay night itself New Year Revels makes a welcome return to Assembly Rooms with an all-night ceilidh and live band party with Massaoke, while Princes Street and Princes Street Gardens will host 50,000 party goers at the world-famous Street Party and Concert in the Gardens with Pulp and special guests Hot Chip (DJ set).

The four-day programme comes to a close on Monday 1 January 2024 with the family friendly Sprogmanay and family ceilidh, and First Footin’ Culture Trail in selected venues around the city.  

Further information and tickets for Ho Ho Hogmanay and all events at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 30th anniversary celebrations are available now from:

 www.edinburghshogmanay.com

Book Week Scotland gets ready for adventure in Edinburgh

One Scot will find a voucher for a year’s worth of books in one of this year’s free Book Week Scotland books, which feature four stories from Edinburgh writers

Scottish Book Trust, the national charity changing lives with reading and writing, has launched the line-up for Book Week Scotland 2023, which will be themed around ‘adventure’. Book Week Scotland, this year taking place on 13–19 November, is Scotland’s national annual celebration of books and reading, with events taking place in libraries and community venues across the country.

People picking up a copy of this year’s free Book Week Scotland book, Adventure, may be lucky enough to find one of seven special silver tickets, celebrating Scottish Book Trust’s 25th anniversary, tucked inside the pages.

The silver tickets are redeemable for book tokens, with six worth £100 and one valid for a year’s worth of books (to a value of £500). The tickets will be sent across Scotland, so readers far and wide are in with a chance of discovering one.

The book has been published by Scottish Book Trust, featuring true stories from people across Scotland, including four from local Edinburgh writers Hazel Knox, Joanne Deegan Kerr, Jo Higgs and Nicole Carter. 

Adventure also features exclusive contributions from Len Pennie, Sumayya Usmani, current Scots Scriever Shane Strachan, Mae Diansangu, and Gaelic writers Alistair Paul and Seonaidh Charity.

70,000 copies of the book will be given out for free during Book Week Scotland through libraries and community spaces, and it is also available to order online alongside audio and ebook formats.

The Book Week Scotland festivities will kick off with an exclusive midnight launch of Jenny Colgan’s new book, Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop, at John Kay’s Shop in Edinburgh. Tickets are available to win at bookweekscotland.com.

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: ‘Book Week Scotland is one of the highlights of Scotland’s literary calendars, with events for all ages and interests taking place across the nation.

“Despite the fact that Book Week Scotland is now operating on a shoestring budget due to repeated funding cuts, working with and through our fantastic partners across the country we have been able, even so, to offer an exciting and accessible programme of events at a local and national level.

“We could not do this without the support of the Scottish Library and Information Council, library services and the many other community partners we collaborate with. And this is vital, because developing a love of reading is a lifelong adventure which brings much pleasure and many benefits to the individual and the communities they live in.’

Pamela Tulloch, chief executive of the Scottish Library & Information Council said: ‘Book Week Scotland is an important opportunity to bring communities together to celebrate the power of reading which is why SLIC is proud to be a partner. 

“With a brilliant programme of events lined up in libraries across the country, there’s something for everyone.  We hope people will take this opportunity to rediscover all that local libraries have to offer.’

Head of Literature & Publishing at Creative Scotland, Alan Bett, said: ‘Book Week Scotland is a highlight in Scotland’s literary and cultural calendar which continues to provide joy by connecting the reading public with Scotland’s authors and their books.

“Featuring some of the biggest names in our literary scene, this year’s programme showcases homegrown talent and provides the space to empower writers and readers alike, across the country and within their own communities.’

Highlights from Book Week Scotland 2023 in Edinburgh will include:

·        Writing Historical Fiction: Forgotten Voices at Typewronger Books – Monday 13 November, 7.30–8.30pm (free ticketed event)

·        Sara Sheridan: The Fair Botanists at Juniper Green Bowling Club – Tuesday 14 November, 6.30–7.30pm (free ticketed event)

·        The Pleasures of Reading with Val McDermid at Portobello Bookshop – Thursday 16 November, 7–8pm (free ticketed event)

·        Football Journeys with a Bearded Genius: Nooruddean Choudry in conversation with Daniel Gray from Nutmeg Magazine at St John’s Scottish Episcopal Church – Saturday 18 November, 7–8.30pm (free ticketed event)

The Book Week Scotland 2023 programme is now live, with more events to be added in the lead up to the week itself.

What’s On at National Museums of Scotland

LISTINGS

Exhibitions & displays
National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Open 10:00–17:00 daily

Rising Tide: Art and Environment in Oceania
Until 14 Apr 2024
Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3
Free

Delve into the most important and pressing issue of our time, humanity’s damaging relationship with planet Earth. This urgent issue is felt especially deeply in Australia and the Pacific Islands where sea levels are rising due to climate change and the oceans are filling with plastic.

Rising Tide considers our relationship to the natural environment through contemporary artistic responses to climate change and plastic waste by Indigenous Australian and Pacific Islander artists.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Rising-Tide

Uniquely Scottish Silver
Until 26 May 2024
Grand Gallery
Free

Uniquely Scottish Silver brings together five distinct Scottish silver object designs: mazers, quaichs, thistle cups, ovoid urns and heart brooches.

Discover some of the earliest and rarest survivals within the Scottish silver smiths’ craft.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Uniquely-Scottish-Silver

Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2024
20 Jan – 6 May 2024
Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3
Ticketed

In this world-renowned exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, see exceptional images which capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world.

Book now nms.ac.uk/wildlife-photographer-of-the-year


Events
National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Open 10:00–17:00 daily

Morning Curator Tour: Rising Tide
1 & 9 Nov
09:15-10:00
Ticketed

On a tour which takes place before the museum opens to the general public, join the exhibition’s curator, Dr Ali Clark, as she delves into the stories behind the exhibition and explores innovative and artistic responses to climate change and plastic waste by Indigenous Australian and Pacific Islander artists.

Book now nms.ac.uk/morning-curator-tour

Annual Open Evening
23 Nov
18:00 – 19:30
Free, booking required

Join us for the Annual Open Evening to find out more about our collections, the work that we do, and to hear about our plans for the future across all our museums. The event will be hosted by Ian Russell, our Chair, and Dr Chris Breward, our Director.

Book now nms.ac.uk/annual-open-evening

Curiosity Club
25 Nov – 24 Feb 2024
10:30 – 12:00
£10 (Members and Concessions £9)

Unleash your creativity and curiosity topic each month, we’ve captured some of the museum’s most exciting and child friendly collections and themes, for kids to explore through games, activities, and visits to some of our most interactive galleries.

Book now nms.ac.uk/curiosity-club

Traditional Tunes for Tiny People: St Andrew’s Special
29 Nov
11:00-11:40 & 14:00-14:40
Level 1, Kingdom of the Scots Gallery
Free, booking required

Bring your wee ones to celebrate St Andrew’s Day with music and stories. Join musicians Roo and Neil for live music and storytelling. Through fiddle, accordion, and voice, Roo and Neil will lead an interactive and fun performance, specially designed to introduce traditional Scottish tunes, stories and songs to young children and their families.

Book now nms.ac.uk/traditional-tunes-st-andrews

Sensory Sunday: Arctic Animals
03 December
10:30-12:00
Level 4, Studio 2, Learning Centre
Free, booking required

Families with children with additional support needs and disabilities are invited to join our programme of sensory play sessions. Explore the museum’s collections, get creative and meet other families.  Sensory Sunday sessions are relaxed, fun and hands-on, and respond to the needs of the families participating.

You are welcome to come and go at any point during a session. These sessions are suitable for children with additional support needs, neurodivergent children or children with disabilities. The content is aimed at ages 5-10 but is not set – we welcome all families who think they might enjoy these sessions

Book now nms.ac.uk/sensory-sunday


Magic Carpet Minis
Until 20 Dec
10:30 & 14:00 (Wednesdays)
£15 per child for block of 3

Magic Carpet Minis introduces you and your little one to some of the wonderful galleries, objects and themes in the museum in a fun and gentle way. Taking place in different spaces around the museum, you will explore subjects such as the Natural World, Space, World Cultures and Scottish History through songs, stories, rhymes, actions, objects and sensory play.

Book now nms.ac.uk/magic-carpet-minis


Friday Friends
Until 28 Jun 2024
Selected Friday afternoons
14:00 – 16:00
Free, pre-booking required

Our Friday Friends programme offers a welcoming space for visually impaired and D/deaf children and their families. The groups meet monthly and explore the themes of the museum through objects, music, art and activities.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/friday-friends


National Museum of Rural Life
Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR
Open 10:00–17:00 daily


Bugs and Beasties Trail
Until 17 Nov
Outdoors
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass

Find big bugs and beasties, and learn some fun bug facts, on your way to our working farm.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/bugs-and-beasties-trail

Festive Weekend
09 – 10 Dec
10:30 – 15:00
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass

Celebrate the festive season at the National Museum of Rural Life with family-friendly crafts and live music.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/festive-weekend

Traditional Tunes for Tiny People
09 – 10 Dec
10:30 – 11:15 & 11:30-12:15
Theatre
Adult with one child (under 5) £5
Additional (under 5) £3

Get into the festive spirit with traditional live music sessions for under-fives and their adults at the National Museum of Rural Life.

Book now nms.ac.uk/traditional-tunes

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For booking, opening times and location details, contact National Museums Scotland on 0300 123 6789