1st to 5th May 2008, Speyside Whisky Festival, Speyside, North East Scotland. A celebration of our national drink in one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland. Almost fifty world-famous distilleries are located on Speyside. You can visit and tour most during the festival which also features a gala dinner, ceilidh, tasting sessions and exhibitions. Visit distilleries not usually open to the public. Heaven for whisky lovers. Full detialos can be found at www.spiritofspeyside.com

9th to 11th May 2008, Word Festival, Aberdeen. Aberdeen's book festival, Word, is a weekend packed of readings, music, art exhibitions, and film screenings featuring a star-studded line-up of writers and artists. Seamus Heaney, Louis de Bernieres, Ian Rankin, Richard E Grant and Adriana Trigiani have all appeared in previous years. Word 08 also features some of the nation's favourite children's writers at the Imagination Tent and Storytelling Teepee. The festival takes place at the charming campus of the University of Aberdeen and at venues throughout the city. www.abdn.ac.uk lists all details.

10th to 11th May 2008, Motorfair & the Scottish Motor Show, Knockhill Racing Circuit, Fife. Motorfair is Scotland's live, interactive motoring show. There are loads to see and do, with something for everyone, cars to see and be seen in, stunt shows, and special zones. Kids, 4x4s, road-safety, truck and supercar, as well as free track demos. Free 4x4 rambles and skid pan demos. A Formula 1 Ferrari! Racing and Rally cars will be in the feature marquees. www.knockhill.com  lists full programme.

10th to 11th May 2008, Loch Fyne Food Fair, Cairndow, near Inveraray, Argyll. An abundance of West Coast food next to the famous Loch Fyne Oyster Bar. Along with fine wines, local ales, and live music all day, there will be a wide assortment of foods showcased, sold by the producers, ready to eat or to take home. A craft tent with over 20 craft producers and children?s will also be accessible entertainment. Full details are on www.lochfyne.com

17th to 25th May 2008, Burns an' a' That! Various venues, Ayrshire. A wide-ranging programme of music, song, poetry and art celebrating the life and contemporary culture of Scotland. Set against a backdrop of, and interweaving with, the life and work of our national bard. In and around Ayr, the festival features world-class acts from across the musical spectrum matched to an ambitious and innovative programme showcasing the best of contemporary and traditional Scottish culture. www.burns.visitscotland.com  gives full list of events.

Throughout the year, The Scottish Storytelling Centre, John Knox House High Street, Edinburgh. The Centre is a unique venue the home of Scotland's stories on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. The autumn and winter programme reflects the seasons and celebrations of St. Andrew's Day, Yule and the turning of the year, with live storytelling, theatre and family events. Please visit their web address www.scottishstorytellingcentre .co.uk for all the relevant details.

22nd to 25th May 2008, Orkney Folk Festival, Various venues, Orkney. An internationally renowned celebration of traditional and contemporary folk music. Talented local musicians are billed with more famous names in one of the most vibrant festivals of its type. Concerts and sessions will take place in seven locations. Programme details are on www.orkneyfolkfestival.com

22nd May to 1st June 2008, Perth Festival of the Arts Perth, Perth. This year's festival offers a stunning world-class programme featuring an impressive line up of well known names in concerts, exhibitions, recitals, performances and displays. Full programme details are on www.perthfestival.co.uk

29th May to 1st June 2008, Angus Glens Walking Festival, Angus. Explore this beautiful part of Scotland in the company of experienced leaders, who will provide information on the history, wildlife and culture of the area. A full and varied programme of walks and evening entertainment is offered, with something to suit all ages and abilities. visit www.angusand dundee.co.uk to find out programme details.