This weekend and into next week, Sutherland is set to host an array of festive events, ranging from theatrical performances to markets and carol services, engaging residents and visitors alike. The local community will gather for celebrations that showcase the region’s vibrant culture and holiday spirit.
On Friday, December 1, a pop-up Christmas gift shop will open at Cocoa Skye in Brora from 18:00 to 21:00. Additionally, the Dornoch Heritage Society will hold a film night at the Dornoch Social Club starting at 19:00. Attendees can enjoy a selection of heritage and contemporary films, seasonal refreshments, and engage in a mystery objects guessing game while supporting local heritage. Entry is priced at £5.
The festivities continue on Saturday, December 2, with the North Coast Market at Bettyhill Village Hall, running from 11:00 to 15:00. The market will feature local produce such as bread, cakes, and vegetables, alongside gift ideas and seasonal treats like tea, cake, and soup.
A wool spinning workshop led by Jorine from Green Cabin Yarns takes place at Assynt Leisure Centre on the same day, offering a fibre presentation from 11:00 to 13:00 and a Spinning Basics session from 14:00 to 16:00. This event is suitable for all skill levels, welcoming participants to join at any time.
In the afternoon, the Skerray Village Hall presents the pantomime “The Wee Mermaid of Westerbay,” with performances scheduled for 13:00 and again at 17:00. Tickets can be purchased at local post offices.
The Timespan Museum and Arts Centre in Helmsdale will host a festive event starting at 12:00, featuring a festive lunch, an open mic session, craft activities, and a ceilidh. Meanwhile, the Firefest celebration returns to the Stoer Bistro and Bar in Bettyhill at 13:00. This popular event includes music, craft stalls, and food, culminating in a Christmas lights switch-on.
At 18:30, the Golspie Choral Society will lead an Evening of Carols at the Ardgay Village Hall. This family-friendly event will include festive food and activities, with donations collected for Mikeysline.
Film enthusiasts can enjoy a screening of the animated comedy “Paddington in Peru” at the Halladale Community Hall on Saturday night, with doors opening at 19:00 for a 19:30 start. Following the film, attendees can enjoy tea, coffee, and home bakes.
On Sunday, December 3, the East Sutherland Live Arts and Entertainment will host a screening of the Royal Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at Brora Primary School at 14:00. Tickets, priced at £12.50 for adults and £7.50 for children, will be available at the door.
A Candlelight Christmas Carol service will take place at Bunillidh Church of Scotland in Helmsdale at 16:00, allowing attendees to light candles in memory of loved ones. Refreshments, including tea, coffee, and mince pies, will be served afterward.
The following day, Monday, December 4, the Kyle of Sutherland Hub will host an “Everything Christmas Quiz” from 17:30 to 19:00. This free event welcomes participants of all ages and features exciting prizes.
On Tuesday, December 5, a quiz night at The Pier in Lairg will support the Light Up Lairg initiative. Participants can enjoy tea, coffee, and cake while competing for prizes, with an entry fee of £5 per person and teams of at least four.
A Christmas rag wreaths workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, December 6, at the Shin Suite in Lairg Community Centre from 12:30 to 14:30. Interested participants can register by calling 01549 402050 or emailing [email protected].
Lastly, the Golspie Choral Group will perform a Christmas concert at the Fountain Road Hall in Golspie on Thursday, December 7, starting at 19:30. Entry is by donation, with all proceeds benefiting Macmillan Cancer Support. A Christmas Carol Service will also be held at Bettyhill Free Church at 19:30, featuring carols, readings, and festive refreshments.
These events provide a wonderful opportunity for community engagement and celebration as the holiday season approaches in Sutherland.
