December 2009 and throughout the year, Loch Rannoch Watersports Centre, Kinloch Rannoch. A multitude of activities are available to groups and individuals. Taster sessions for beginners are available all week, while those with more experience can benefit from further training or simply hire one of their boats. All activities are under the supervision of qualified staff, and all necessary equipment can be provided for a safe and enjoyable day, weekend or week away. You can choose from Sailing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Boat Hire, Mountain Biking, Quad Biking, Off Road Driving and Safari’s, Climbing, Abseiling, Archery, and multi-activity courses. www.goforth.co.uk

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.

Throughout the year Lauriston Castle in Edinburgh, provides an abundance of interesting events to suit the whole family from experiencing what it was like to be a servant in the castle in days gone by to art classes and discovering the exotic blooms which can be found in the gardens there is something for everyone. Full details can be found on their website www.cac.org.uk

19th December 2009, Rat Pack, Usher Hall, Edinburgh. Beat the winter blues with the special Christmas version of the hit show. After critically acclaimed national tours and Four years in London's West End, this is the coolest party in town! Details can be found on www.usherhall.co.uk

15th December 2009, Carol Service, HMS Unicorn, Victoria Dock, Dundee. The Service will be conducted by Unicorn’s Chaplain, the Rev Eric Milton. The Carols will be accompanied by the Dundee Instrumental Band. Mince pies and light refreshments will be served after the Service, when there will be a good opportunity to meet old friends. For further information on this event please visit www.frigateunicorn.org

23rd December 2009, Christmas Cracker, Glasgow Concert Hall, Glasgow. Join the City of Glasgow Chorus and Orchestra for a great night of festive favourites and popular classics along with great music from the stage and screen. Have some fun with the Twelve Days Of Christmas and the traditional pulling of the crackers, as well as singing along to carols such as White Christmas, Sleigh Ride, O Holy Night, Winter Wonderland, plus many others! Full details can be found at www.glasgowconcerthalls.com

End of November through to December 2009, Glasgow On Ice, Glasgow. George Square's famous Christmas illuminations will provide a sparkling backdrop, you'll be able to show off your ice-dancing moves on one of the largest outdoor ice rinks in Europe, all set to non-stop music. www.glasgow-on-ice.co.uk lists full details. 

Throughout November 2009 till 23rd December 2009. Wigtown Bay Local Nature Reserve, Wigtown Bay Visitor Centre, Wigtown. Bird migration is the theme of the Wigtown Bay Visitor Centre with thousands of visiting winter geese and the return of the Galloway Ospreys from Africa giving a true homecoming feel as they were born in Scotland. Full detailsl can be found at www.dgcommunity.net

31st December 2009, Across Scotland, Hogmanay. Hogmanay - New Year's Eve to the uninitiated - is party night in Scotland. Many towns and cities throughout Scotland have their own celebrations and you'll always be welcome, so come along and experience a traditional Scottish new year for yourself. The City of Edinburgh hosts the largest street party in Scotland with thousands of visitors. www.edinburghshogmanay.org