1 Spectra: Aberdeen’s Festival of Light

Various venues, Aberdeen, today until February 12

Aberdeen will be lit up today when the stunning Festival of Light returns to the granite city.

The four-day festival, which brings together international and Scottish artists, includes spectacular public realm and gallery installations as well as new experimental works and performances.

Celebrating the Scottish Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, this year’s theme, ‘A New Light’, explores Aberdeen’s past.

Ticket prices vary. Visit http://spectraaberdeen.com/spectra431/

2 Banchory Beer Festival presents Beer @ The Barn

Woodend Barn Arts Centre, Banchory, February 10-11

Beer lovers will raise a glass to Scotland’s finest pints at this tasty festival in Banchory.

Now in its third year, beer aficionados will be able to sample some of the country’s best brews, ciders and gins during the two-day drink fest.

There will also be live music and the chance to try Scotland’s first ever rum.

Tickets cost £17.50. Visit http://www.banchorybeerfestival.com/upcoming-events/item/15-beer-at-the-barn-2017

3 Great Britain Ice Swimming Championships and Gala

The Cruin, Loch Lomond, February 11

The Herald:

Wild swimmers will brave the chilly waters of Loch Lomond during the Ice Swimming Championships on Saturday.

Around 100 swimmers will show off their skills as they compete on the Championship’s tough 1000 metre open water course.

Competitors will also take part in a series of shorter races and relay events during an Ice Gala, which will be held at Loch Lomond on the same day.

Entry to watch is free. Visit http://www.iceswimminggb.co.uk/iisa-great-britain-ice-swimming-championships-ice-gala/

4 BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra: Bavouzet plays Ravel

City Halls, Glasgow, today

Classical music fans are in for a treat tonight when the BBC SSO return to City Halls.

The concert includes performances of Ravel’s Piano Concerto for the left hand by Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, Haydn’s Symphony No 8 ‘Le Soir’ and Tippett’s Symphony No 2.

The show will be conducted by Martyn Brabbins.

Tickets cost £13. Visit http://www.bbc.co.uk/events/eccn3d

5 Gok Wan Fashion Brunch Club

George Hotel, Edinburgh, February 12

The Herald:

Fashion guru Gok Wan will be on hand to provide style advice at this special event in the Scottish capital.

The stylist, designer and author will talk about his passion for fashion, his life and reveal some industry secrets during the brunch.

Guests will also receive a chilled glass of champagne on arrival.

Tickets cost £45. Visit http://www.gokfashion.com/

6 Winter Words Festival

Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Pitlochry, February 10-19

Celebrating Scotland's history, landscape and people, this festival has something for everyone.

The annual literary event boasts a packed programme of author talks, workshops, music and film screenings.

Highlights include the Banff Mountain Festival and talks from Scots documentary maker Paul Diffley, Coast presenter Nicholas Crane, John Beattie and politician Vince Cable.

Ticket prices vary. Visit https://pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com/winter-words-festival/

7 Norie-Miller Walk Light Nights

Norie-Miller Walk, Perth, today until February 14

Walkers will get the chance to explore the stunning Norie-Miller Walk at night during this illuminating event.

The light show on the banks of the River Tay has been designed to accentuate the natural features of the picturesque walk, with lighting changing regularly during the enchanting event.

There will also be food, drinks and entertainment from groups including Adventure Circus.

Entry is free. Visit http://www.perthcity.co.uk/norie-miller-walk-light-nights/

8 Valentine’s Fizz Tasting

The Bothy, Glasgow, February 13

The Herald:

Couples will be able to raise a glass to Valentine’s Day at this romantic tasting on Monday.

Introduced by a certified sommelier, guests will try six sparkling wines during the event.

Each glass will also be paired with a special canapé.

Tickets cost £30. Visit http://www.bothyrestaurant.co.uk/

9 Garry Brander show

Lemond Gallery, Bearsden, February 11-12

The Herald:

The work of acclaimed Glasgow painter Garry Brander will take centre stage at this solo show at the Lemond Gallery.

The solo show features paintings from the Glasgow School of Art graduate’s East Coast of Scotland collection, which is about escaping modern reality.

Showcasing works including Buchan Ness Lighthouse, Crovie Tides and St Abbs by the Harbour, this is one exhibition art lovers will not want to miss.

Entry is free. Visit www.lemondgallery.com.

10 Awesome Archaeology: The Romans

The Scottish Fisheries Museum, Fife, February 11

Would be Indiana Jones’ will be able to learn more about the Romans during this family friendlyafternoon.

Part of Dig It! 2017, the event, which is suitable for seven to 12-year-olds, looks at the history of the Romans in Scotland and the objects they left behind.

Youngsters will also learn how to make wax tablets and mosaics.

Tickets cost £3. Visit http://www.scotfishmuseum.org/

11 Scottish Gin Tasting

The Illicit Still, Aberdeen, today until March 31

The Herald:

Gin fans will get to try some of Scotland’s favourite tipples at this delicious event.

The session features three tastings and an insight into the history of Scottish gin.

As if that was not enough, there will also be a G&T on arrival and a gin surprise.

Tickets cost £17.50. Visit http://www.illicit-still.co.uk/