Wood ‘n’ food

Sep 9 2008 by Our Correspondent, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

Wood ‘n’ food

THIS weekend – Saturday and Sunday, September 13 and 14 – sees the second of the Perth and Kinross Cittaslow Weekends, which are being held throughout this month.

The Cittaslow Weekends are all about getting out to explore what’s going on around you, making the most of the world you live in and enjoying what makes your town or area unique and distinctive.

The international Cittaslow (pronounced chEEtaslow) network of over 100 towns in 15 countries aims to promote, conserve and celebrate local culture and local traditions across the world. Perth is Scotland’s first Cittaslow town and Perth and Kinross is the first region in the UK to be recognised as a Cittaslow Supporter.

Cittaslow encourages us all to think about environmental protection, healthy eating, conservation and participating in active community life. The Cittaslow symbol is a snail, because it’s often better to take a little more time to do things slowly and do them better. Cittaslow is about slowing down and enjoying life – it’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast!

The Perth and Kinross Cittaslow Weekends are taking place on every weekend during September. They bring together our own unique local arts, culture, environment, food, heritage and traditions. And the idea is that they’re fun for local residents and visitors of all ages!

THIS Cittaslow Weekend there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 and 14 – SCOTTISH WOODFAIR: Starting on Friday, enjoy three days of fun- packed celebrations and showcases from Scotland’s very best designers and crafts people. The WoodFair takes place at Dewars Centre in Perth from 10am on Saturday and Sunday and there are also events at St John’s Shopping Centre and Kinnoull Hill in Perth. Admission is £3 for adults and free for children under 16.

BRIG FARM SHOP GATES OPEN WEEKEND: Enjoy a weekend of fun with visits to the wiggly worm farm, guided wildlife tours, animal petting and grooming, arts and crafts and a Brig Barbeque. It’s free and it all happens at Brig Farm Shop at Bridge of Earn from 11am – 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

OPTICS WEEKEND: Head down to Vane Farm RSPB Reserve at Loch Leven near Kinross, and try out a wide range of optical equipment that’s just perfect for spotting the spectacular birdlife on Scotland’s largest lowland loch. Experts will be on hand to advise on what’s best for you. See how many species you can spot on Saturday and Sunday from 10 – 4.30pm. Admission is free.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 – CRIEFF AND STRATHEARN MONTHLY MARKET: Browse the market stalls and choose form a wide range of traditional farmers’ produce, crafts and giftware including photography, glass and jewellery at this vibrant monthly market in St James Square in Crieff town centre. From 9.30am – 4pm on Saturday.

NATURE DETECTIVES: If you prefer to get out and explore our wonderful countryside, become a Nature Detective at the Highland Safari Lodge near Aberfeldy. Follow clues around the grounds of the lodge to find all kinds of plants and creatures from tiny insects to huge red deer. Detective work starts at 10am. Free admission.

PITLOCHRY HIGHLAND GAMES: One of Scotland’s most popular Highland Games with all the traditions of pipers, dancers, heavy events like tossing the caber, athletes and cyclists. Don’t miss the massed pipe bands’ finale. Pitlochry’s Recreation Park from 11am – 5pm. Admission is £5 for adults and £1 for children.

OUTLYING ISLANDS: A dark and passionate drama by David Greig, Scotland’s leading contemporary playwright. Outlying Islands is a gripping play set on a remote Scottish island on the eve of the Second World War. It’s at Pitlochry Festival Theatre at 2pm. Tickets: £15.50. concessions available.

More details of all the events taking place throughout the Perth and Kinross Cittaslow Weekends can be found at www.perthcittaslow.org.uk.