As we begin to look ahead to spring, with its promise of warmer days and longer evenings, we’re itching to get out and about in the city. Looking for something to keep you occupied until temperatures start to rise? Here’s our editor’s pick of cultural highlights in February and March.
WALKS
Arthur’s Seat is an iconic Edinburgh landmark, and has a fascinating history. Find out more about its turbulent past on a free guided walk from Historic Environment Scotland. Taking place at 1pm on 17 February and 3 March, you can discover more about the people who lived and worked in Holyrood Park from 7,000 years ago up until the present day and learn more about the rare wildlife that makes the area so special. Booking is essential.
Visit www.hes.scot for details
Museums
The 15-year project to transform the National Museum of Scotland reaches its conclusion this month with the opening of three new galleries devoted to ancient Egypt, East Asia and ceramics. From mummy masks to Ming porcelain, these free, permanent galleries have something for everyone.
Visit www.nms.ac.uk for details
CRAFT
Upcycled furniture ticks all our design boxes; it’s unique, quirky and sustainable. Instead of trawling the charity shops, why not try it out for yourself? On 2 March, the Edinburgh Remakery on Leith Walk is offering a full-day workshop on finishing and upcycling techniques for furniture, led by talented upcycling artist Elisabeth Viguie Culshaw. The class begins at 10:30am and tickets cost from £54-£72.
Visit www.edinburghremakery.org.uk for details
FOOD & DRINK
It will be gin o’clock all weekend at the Biscuit Factory on 29 and 30 March when the Scottish Gin Festival hits Leith. There will be masterclasses, live music, street food and tasting experiences from over 70 gin brands and makers. Eat, drink and find out more about this much-loved tipple. The festival kicks off at 5:30pm on both nights and tickets cost £12.50pp.
Visit www.trueorigins-ginfestival.com for details
THEATRE
Don’t put Baby in the corner; head along to Dirty Dancing at the Festival Theatre for a raucous stage adaptation of everyone’s favourite eighties rom com. The show returns to Edinburgh following two blockbuster West End runs and two hit UK Tours, and features some of the biggest hit songs from the film. Tickets start from £41.50pp.
Visit www.dirtydancingontour.com
