Five Exciting Events in October

Spend your October taking part in community based events and.  Here are 5 ways you can enjoy the beginning of autumn in Edinburgh.

1. Painting Edinburgh Green – Transition Edinburgh

When: 3rd – 4th October. 10.00 - 16.00 on the 3rd and 9.30 - 17.00 on the 4th.

Where: Out of the Blue, 36 Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh, EH6 8RG.

Cost: Free.

Spend some time with Transition Edinburgh www.transitionedinburgh.wordpress.com and learn more about what you can do personally to help Edinburgh become a greener place to live.  Meet some of the people and grassroots groups in your city who are making a difference.  If you’re an interested individual, or even a local environmental group, feel free to stop by and attend some workshops and lectures on October 4th or just have a chat.

Why should I go? This is a great opportunity to find some inspiration to go green (or go greener).  It’s also a chance to meet some interesting passionate people who are making a difference.

2. Edinburgh Farmer’s Market

When: Every Saturday 9am-2pm.

Where: Castle Terrace.

Cost: Entry is free.

Buying locally is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. It’s also an enjoyable way to spend a crisp autumn morning. Take some friends or your family and tour the stalls run by local farmers.  Get to know your local produce and local vendors.

Why should I go? Supporting your local economy is a brilliant way to make a difference. Eating local produce is also an effective way to ensure the quality of your food.  It’s also a great way to learn more about your local community.

3. Lecture: Gardening the Earth by Professor Stephen Blackmore – The Royal Botanic Garden

When: 22nd October at 19.30.

Where: Royal Botanic Garden Lecture Theatre, 20a Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR.

Cost: £5 (£3 for members) to book call 0131 552 5339.

Professor Stephen Blackmore, Regius Keeper RBGE, will talk about his book 'Gardening the Earth - Gateways to a Sustainable Future'.  Blackmore will speak about the importance of approaching a greener future and how individuals can contribute to the cause.

Why should I go? Being informed on ways to create a sustainable city and a more promising future is important. 

4. Bountiful Birds – Lauriston Castle

When: 21st October 10.30-15.30.

Where: Lauriston Castle Cramond Road, Edinburgh EH4 5QD, 0131 336 1921.

Cost: £4.

A great chance for children to learn about Edinburgh’s nature and animals. Find out more about Edinburgh’s birds in Lauriston Castle’s beautiful garden. After venturing through the Castle’s woods Stephanie Walker will instruct you on how to make a bird feeder.  Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult.

Why should I go? Getting to know the animals that surround you is a great way to familiarise yourself with nature.  You may gain a greater respect for the impressive and beautiful wildlife Scotland has to offer. Or you might just come away with a nice birdhouse.

5. Samhuinn – Beltane Fire Society

When: 31st October at 21.00.

Where: Edinburgh Castle with a procession down the Royal Mile.

Cost: Free.

Celebrate Halloween as well as the Celtic new year by watching this impressive and colourful procession.  Watch as the beautiful winter queen conquers the summer court and welcome winter to Edinburgh.  Beltane is a brilliant way to spend Halloween. Take some friends and a warm drink and learn about Celtic traditions. For further information log on to: http://www.beltane.org/

Why should I go? Scotland’s Celtic roots are a huge part of the country’s identity.  This is a very fun event that subtly shows the beauty of appreciating the changing seasons.  You’ll have a great time and learn about the Celtic people’s deeply founded reverence for nature.