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❄ ❅ ❅ ❅ ❄ ❅ ❄ ❅❄❅ the ❅ ❅ really ❄❅ ❅ useful ❄ ❅ ❅ ❅ magazine ❄ and website ❅ ❄❄ ❅ ❅ for families in ❅ ❅ the fife region ❅ Inco ❄ ❅ ❅ s s ❅ o rporating Perth & Kinr ❅ ❄ ❅ ❅ ❄ Issue 22 • Nov/Dev 2013

www.familiesfife.co.uk

imily w a fa t! e tick

29th Nov to 24th Dec 2013 Box Office: • 01383 602302 • onfife.com

Plus

Editors’ top toy picks Seasonal What’s on guide including Shows, Christmas lights switch on and where to see Santa

Pick up your copy in

Dunfermline  Glenrothes  Kirkcaldy  Perth  Kinross  Cupar  St Andrews or a village in between

pure shopping pleasure

Contents

Inco rporating Perth & Kinross

GREAT RANGE OF SHOPPING & EVENTS THIS CHRISTMAS.

3 Welcome to Families Fife 4 News With a round up of many of the regions Bonfire Nights’ celebrations and the winners of the Open Doors Day Passport challenge

VISIT OUR WEBSITE & FACEBOOK FOR DETAILS.

6 Education and Childcare Nursery news from local nursery providers 7 Birth, Baby and Beyond Support for mums with babies and pre-schoolers 8 Deck the Halls Families’ editors 5 Step guide to surviving the festive season

DUNFERMLINE

MARKS & SPENCERS DEBENHAMS TOPSHOP DOROTHY PERKINS H&M RIVER ISLAND NEW LOOK QUIZ BOOTS JD SPORTS WATERSTONES SHMOOZ THE BODY SHOP SUPERDRUG HOLLAND AND BARRETT AND SO MUCH MORE...

www.shopkingsgate.co.uk

The smart money mum Pauline Macmillan is the Director of The Jack and Jill Market, the quality nearly-new baby & children’s market where Smart Mums Sell and Save.

t can be hard nowadays to be a Smart Money Mum…Our children need so much and as parents we feel the need to buy for them, treat them and make sure that their needs are fulfilled. I have spoken to mums recently who tell me they are leaking money left, right and centre and lots of little expenses add up to a small fortune especially at this time of year! Shopping at The Jack & Jill Market can help you plug some of those money leaks, at our monthly, quality nearly new baby & kids

2 | Families Fife Issue 22

markets across Scotland you can find everything your heart desires for the little money sponges in your life all under one roof on the same day and at a fraction of the Recommended Retail Price! At The Jack & Jill Market, we are committed to helping local families MAKE & SAVE money while at the same time being dedicated to protecting the environment! It’s the new, smart way to shop.  Visit the website www. jackandjillmarket.co.uk , look us up on facebook or follow us on twitter.

11 Where to see Santa and Christmas lights on guide 12 Entertainment and shows Pick a panto, see a show 13 Clubs and Classes News and updates from local club providers 13 Out and About

Editor: Susan Kirkwood, editor@familiesfife.co.uk Tel: 01383 735938 or 07734 289 143 Christmas illustrations kindly provided by Amy and Ellie Kirkwood Design: White Creative www.whitecreativecompany.co.uk Circulation: 12,000 copies printed. Distributed free of charge throughout Fife, Perth and Kinross by kind permission of Fife Libraries, Fife Leisure Centres, antenatal clinics, health visitors, surgeries, community use schools, Theatres in Fife and Perth, places of historic interest, local attractions, selected shops and playgroups and play centres. Print: J Thomson. Due care was taken to source print and other services required to produce this magazine from within the local area.

NEXT ISSUE: Clubs and classes: Jan-Feb 2014 Booking deadline: 2nd Dec. Out: 6th Jan 2014

Families Fife© is a part of a larger group of magazines headed by Families SW London©. All franchised magazines are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

www.familiesfife.co.uk

t’s nearly that time again folks. Christmas looms and talk of furtive lists and letters to Santa commences. Some of you are prepared, presents purchased, cards bought in last years January sales written and awaiting Christmas first day cover stamps, feet up with smug looks on your faces. But that’s enough talk of the grandparents... The rest of us, barely recovered from Halloween and anticipating Guy Fawkes Night, are collectively screaming from our windows. ‘No it can’t be that time again’. ‘Oh yes it can’ as they say over in pantoland. To help you through what I find is a most confusing, expensive and creatively draining time of year, Families magazine has a fairly good grasp of what’s on locally over the next two months. For those of you heading out on the night of Nov 5th, check out our Bonfire Night round up on page 5. Our Christmas feature this year is a 5 step guide to what to do, make, buy or try this year to survive the festive season compiled by the combined forces of the Families editorial group with tips on how to get the most out of the Christmas season locally. We also have our most comprehensive What’s on guide yet including lights on dates and where to spot Santa around town. Deck the halls! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!  Susan Kirkwood, Editor

Fun chocolate workshops... Chocolate parties in your own home or venue of your choice for children aged 4 and over...

Choca’zy Aw

m. 07900 30 50 25

www.choczaway.co.uk

Teach your baby to swim! Fun, innovative classes creating life-saving confidence from birth

Call us on 01786 430314 or email: makeasplash@waterbabies.co.uk waterbabies.co.uk

Perth Concert Hall

“...a delight for kids, parents and grandparents alike. The laughter, singing and interaction is contagious” Edinburgh Evening News

tickets: 01738 621031 www.horsecross.co.uk Horsecross Arts Ltd is a charity registered in Scotland, no SC022400

Events from Dunfermline Delivers

Choc’z Away is a local company specialising in chocolate parties. Choc’z Away can cater at your home or a local venue. Children can decorate and make a chocolate shape (cats, cars, dinosaurs, bears), then a chocolate lollipop and a mallow shape. Lollipops and mallow shapes can be arranged for larger groups. They can accommodate up to 15 children (£9.50 per head.) And even better news – Choc’z Away are now doing Girlie Nights for adults. Similar to the children’s parties, you supply the friends and the venue. Heaven! Call 07900 305025 or visit www. choczaway.co.uk

A Horsecross Arts production

Written by Alan McHugh Directed by Rachel O’Riordan

Fri 6 Dec 2013 - Sat 4 Jan 2014 Coming 2014 12th & 13th July

Coming 2014 tickets: 01738 621031 www.horsecross.co.uk Horsecross Arts Ltd is a charity registered in Scotland, no SC022400

Issue 22 Families Fife | 3

www.familiesfife.co.uk 1110_Scot C FF Ad 55x70mm.indd 1

Mon 23 Dec: 12pm + 3pm Tue 24 Dec: 11am + 2pm

12/09/2013 13:51

News: Who, What, Where, When …

Bonfire night round up

Friday 1st November

Saturday 2nd November ÊLimekilns Ê Bonfire & Fireworks Display Annual charity fireworks display by the 81st Fife Sea Scout Group. This popular family-friendly display continues to bring enjoyment and fun to all ages. Hot food and refreshments available. Scout Hall Capernaum, Brucehaven Road, Limekilns, Dunfermline, KY11 3JR 7pm Family of 4 £10.00 Per Person £3.00

of pre-show entertainment hosted by the fantastic Ewen Cameron from Real Radio, fantastic food stalls and family fun. The evening will climax with a fabulous finale of fireworks by the award winning company 21cc Fireworks with the fireworks display set to a soundtrack of the theme songs of famous movie ‘Superheroes’. Tickets will be available from Hopetoun farm shop. Adult tickets are priced at £10, Children £6, Children aged 3 and under are free. Gates open from 4pm - Last Entry 6pm - Fireworks Display approx 6.30pm No tickets at gates.

ÊSaline Ê & Steelend Bonfire & Fireworks Display, 7pm ÊBlairhall Ê Fireworks Display, 6.30pm8.00pm ÊCeres Ê Firework and Fire Beacons Display, 6pm-7.30pm ÊElie Ê Bonfire & Fireworks Display, 6.30pm-7.30pm (£5 for adults, £2 for children) ÊCrossford Ê Bonfire & Firework Display, 6pm-9pm ÊCarnock Ê Bonfire & Firework Display, 7pm-9pm (£2 for adults, children over 5 £1) ÊHopetoun Ê Bonfire & Fireworks Night The event will take place against the backdrop of Hopetoun House, Scotland’s Finest Stately Home and will offer an array

Sunday 3rd November ÊKirkcaldy Ê Golf Club bonfire, fireworks and disco Kirkcaldy Golf Club’s annual firework display. Every year it gets better and better! This year we will be having a carvery meal between 3pm and 4pm (adults £9.00, children £6.00). This will be followed by games and disco until 6pm. There will be a Halloween theme, so we hope the kids will come along in fancy dress. Please book early. Bonfire will start at 6.30pm with fireworks shortly afterwards. For those not attending meal & disco, bonfire tickets are £2.00 and £1.00, bookable in advance. ÊCulross Ê Bonfire and Firework Display, 6pm

Cardenden Bonfire & Fireworks Display 7pm-11pm

4 | Families Fife Issue 22

Tuesday 5th November ÊDunfermline Ê Fireworks To celebrate Bonfire Night, Dunfermline will play host to one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in Scotland. Entertainment with Boogie and Arlene from Forth One FM from 6pm until the main event at 7pm taking place in Pittencrief Park. One of Scotland’s most famous displays, watch a spectacle of over text missing FREE ÊPerth Ê Strathearn 200 Round Table organise Perth Fireworks Bonfire lit at 1900. Family entertainment with fireworks from 21cc, funfair and food stalls. Great safe family night looking to raise money for local good causes. Free entry but donations always appreciated.www.facebook.com/pages/ Remember-remember-Perths-BonfireNight/129017980485116 ÊNewport-on-Tay Ê Bonfire and Fireworks Display, 7.30pm-11pm (£3 for adults, £2 for under 16s) ÊBurntisland Ê Bonfire & Fireworks Display, 6.15pm-8.30pm ÊNewton Ê of Falkland Bonfire & Firework Display, 7pm Saturday 9th November ÊOakley Ê Firework Display, 7pm-8pm (£3 entrance fee) ÊGlenrothes Ê Firework Display, 6.30pm9.30pm

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Winning passports

oors Open weekends take place in September across three weekends and they offer families a chance to enjoy days spent together exploring places across the region. This year, hundreds of Doors Open Days children’s passports were picked up or downloaded from the Doors Open website and twenty seven children successfully completed the quizzes that each venue prepared. These conscientious explorers received a book on aspects of Fife’s heritage, from ancient archaeology to the story of our coastline. These books in turn will give the children lots of ideas for further days out with their families. From the lighthouses of Tayport which helped guide ships safely into harbour to the old graveyard at Kincardine with its beautiful stone carvings of different types of ships, every corner of Fife offered something to explore. Theresa Hughes of Fife Council, who is in charge of organising the event, was delighted at the turn-out and welcomes any suggestions for strange and unusual places you’d like to see opened next year.

And this years winning explorers are:

Aaron Gess-Hansen Aske Gess-Hansen Sigre Gess-Hansen Taylor Cullen Joshua Cullen Aaron Lee Nathan Lee Alex McLeary Jay Botes Caitlyn Botes LeoRough Cara Wyllie Harris McCormack Katie Rose Wozniak

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Cameron Leng Kirsty Leng Calum Hart Amy Hart Bernat Tortajada Malin Begg Rosie Reid Emily Poole Martyn from Balmullo Greg Pasley Iona Pasley Alexander Baird Magnus Baird

WIN

Bizzy Bits super box!

We love Bizzy Bitz ool, addictive, educational and fun, Bizzy Bitz is a must have this Christmas! With a simple ball and socket system, Bizzy Bitz do offer infinite possibilities: Bizzy Bitz is the only toy in the world which can help kids create accurate models of absolutely anything and everything. This has the additional advantage that if a piece goes missing you can always build hundreds of things from your remaining pieces. Different boxes available to suit the various age groups 3-6 yrs, 6-9yrs and 9-12yrs. Go to Amazon for customer reviews and see the range on www.bizzy-bitz.com WIN a super maxi 850 piece box of Bizzy Bitz! To enter, go to www.familiesfife. co.uk/competitions

Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 2nd December 2013.

Reader offer

Peter’s Railway Books

hristopher Vine has published five fantastic paperback books in the Peter’s Railway series. For any child that just can’t get enough of train stories any of these books would make a perfect gift this Christmas. Go to www. petersrailway.com for more details. What’s more, Families readers qualify for a free extra book with every order all signed with personal dedication to make a special Christmas present. To claim go to www.petersrailway.com and order at least one book. In dedication box enter FAMDEC13. Chris Vine will sign the extra free book too. Email info@ petersrailway.com. Offer closes end of December 13. See our editor’s review of Book 5 ‘Peter’s Railway Hits the Jackpot’ online.

WIN

Lands’ end winter layers

eeping out the winter chills is easier with snuggly layers, and Lands’ End is a much-loved, high quality clothing brand. Colourful, practical and packed with innovative details, Lands’ End outerwear is scientifically tested in all weather conditions to ensure your warmth, comfort and enjoyment - whatever the weather. Adults will find an extensive collection, from luxury tailored wool cashmere blend coats, to hi-tech performance outerwear including a range of down-insulated, super-light jackets and full-on weatherproof coats. Children will love playing out in outerwear designed for adventure. Mothers will appreciate the long-lasting value of the ‘Grow-A-Long’ sleeves range, designed to adjust to little ones’ growth spurts. Lands’ End truly has something for everyone and what’s more - for your first order, Lands’ End are offering £10 off on orders over £40. Simple enter FAMILY10 at the checkout for your exclusive discount. To view the collection, head to www.landsend.co.uk. Tweeters can follow @LandsEnd_UK and there’s a Facebook page too. WIN! We have £100 worth of Lands’ End gift vouchers for one lucky Families reader - it could be you! To enter the draw, simply email web@ familiesfife.co.uk with “Lands’ End Prize” in the subject line, sending us your name and address (and any message you’d like to send us!), by the closing date Friday 29 November.

HWIN

Panto tickets!

e have tickets for a lucky family to see Pinocchio at the Carnegie Hall this December. Just make sure that your family is free on Saturday 14th Dec for the 2pm matinee performance and answer the following question:

Q. What colour is the Fairy?

To enter, simply login to www.familiesfife.co.uk/offers before Friday 29th November to complete an online entry form. Good luck!

Issue 22 Families Fife | 5

Education and Childcare

Great childcare come rain or shine W

ith three separate facilities in Fife, Rainbow Nurseries have your childcare covered. Their Dalgety Bay nursery is ideal for people who work in Edinburgh due to its close proximity to the M90. Their on campus facility at St Andrews University provides excellent care for many children whose parents are either lecturers or students. The third nursery is situated in Glenrothes due to high demand for pre-school care in the area. All three locations boast easy access and loads of parking and can accommodate children from two sessions a week up to 10 sessions. All of the key staff at Rainbow have been there for many years and are all trained to the highest level possible as the owners Ian and Craig believe staff training and staff retention to be

one of the key ingredients when it comes to providing high quality childcare. When it comes to play, there are large outdoor areas at each nursery where the children are free to explore, learn and play. Regular trips from the nurseries to visit relevant and interesting local places, help give the children a variety of different experiences and add to the home from home experience. All Rainbow Nurseries are open from 7.30am to 6pm. In addition, there are also after school clubs at St Andrews and Glenrothes where a free ‘collect from school’ service operates. 

Nursery News

Rascals, Cowdenbeath

ascals have recently welcomed the Sparklearts creative team into their Cowdenbeath nursery. On Thursdays, Sparklearts work with the children on dance and drama activities to the delight of the younger and older children alike. The physical nature of the programme is fun for the children and importantly, helps build confidence and self esteem. The owners and staff of the nursery have also been working hard towards gaining the Investors In People accreditation which they have now successfully achieved making Rascals a great place to work and play.

Lauriston Nursery, Dunfermline

he Pre-schoolers and Tweenies adventured into the deep dark wood at the Alhambra Theatre in search of ‘The Gruffalo’s Child’. An ever-popular story with the children, the performance made the words even more exciting and getting to see a real life Gruffalo was lots of fun. Some children joined in with the words remembering them from the book. One child said the snake was his favourite because of his shiny and sparkly skin. Lauriston Nursery: 165 Robertson Road, Dunfermline KY12 0BL. To visit Lauriston anytime call: 01383 741900. 

Visits to any of the Rainbow nurseries can be arranged for any time of the day by visiting www.rainbowchildcarefife.co.uk to find the number for your local Rainbow. Find Rainbow on Facebook/Rainbow Nursery Fife.

FOR FIRST RATE CHILDCARE VISIT US AT...

www.rainbowchildcarefife.co.uk

Let us take good care of your little rascal

Our staff are committed to providing the highest quality child care and education in a safe, cosy, child centred and enabling environment. • Open 51 weeks per year • Monday - Friday 8am-6pm • Saturday 8am-1pm • Caring for children from 6 weeks of age • Nursery, Crèche and Afterschool

www.rascalscowdenbeath.co.uk

6 | Families Fife Issue 22

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Birth, baby and beyond Stop and play

he Play Stop is a new facility for children aged 5 and under which meets in St Andrew’s Erskine Church, Robertson Road, Dunfermline every Friday from 2.30 – 4.30pm. They have a whole host of toys including a bouncy castle, ride on toys, soft play ball pool with feature slide, drawing table, designated baby area, Jumperoo’s and soft play slide to name a few! The Play Stop operates a pay as you go system so there is no need for advance booking. Children under 6 months go free. 6 to 12 months are £1.50 and a year to 5 years are £3.00. There is also a discount system for parents and childminders with more than one child as the second child will get in for half price. The Play Stop will also hire out equipment for birthday parties, weddings and special occasions.  Phone Sarah on 07502305242 for more information.

New leisure centre means more choice for active kids

eeping kids active during the winter months can be a challenge, but there are some great indoor activities on offer which are fun and help develop new skills. Thanks to a new state-of-the-art leisure centre in Kirkcaldy – families have more choice than ever to get their youngsters more active with a range of activities and facilities on offer. The £15.3 million Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre has delivered a fantastic facility for the town, and thanks to new dryside facilities, there is a huge range of activities and programmes aimed at young people which were previously not possible at the old swimming pool. On offer are gymnastics classes for pre-school and primary-aged children, mini kickers for under 5s and primary school football coaching. In addition, juniors aged-17 and under can take advantage of Quid-a-Kid Weekends which allows young people to swim and play racquet sports for just £1. And, during the Christmas holidays the offer will be extended with free swimming and Quid-a-Kid racquet sports. With its two swimming pools, the facility has capacity to accommodate over 450 swimmers on its Scottish Swimming Learn to Swim programme. The swimming programme offers lessons to for all ages –

from babies of 4 months old up to adults – with classes designed to suit ability and confidence. Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s facilities offers kids a great way to try out sports and activities to develop a life-long interest in staying active. And, there’s plenty of offer for parents too! So, no matter where you are in the region, visit www.fifeleisure.org.uk for a full activities schedule for a guaranteed active winter. 

Claire Marshall Childminding North Road, Inverkeithing

Cosy, homely & fun learning environment Large bright playroom & large private garden Great location for commuters Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm T: 07886 669528 for further details SCSWIS & SCMA registered professional

3yoga3 stretch & relax 3

PETIT LOU Childminding

A caring, safe and fun learning environment Conveniently located near Cowdenbeath High Street

T: 0797 4349355 E: petitlouchildcare@yahoo.co.uk SCSWIS and SCMA registered

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Is your next local Jack & Jill Market on this weekend? www.jackandjillm arket.co.uk Scotland’s Quality Nearly-New Baby & Children’s Market

pregnancy & birth baby & postnatal general mixed ability

Dunfermine, Inverkeithing S. Queensferrry & Edinburgh Susannah Dean IYT, BWY, YogaBirth, IAIM 01383 413121

www.theyoga.co.uk

Issue 22 Families Fife | 7

Christmas special

Deck the halls with boughs of holly... 5 step guide to what you need to do, make, buy or try this year STEP 1

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ÊTRACK Ê SANTA Do you remember the days when a half eaten mince pie and an empty glass of milk were proof enough that Santa had been? Yes back in our day. Life has moved on and the wireless generation needs more. They need to keep in touch. Receive personal communication from the overstretched OAP, see photographic evidence that ‘he’s been’ and even keep an eye on old St Nick as he circumnavigates the globe. To ‘arrange’ a personal message from Father Christmas, go to www.portablenorthpole. com. To track Santa from 1st December go to www.noradsanta. org and see a picture of him in your home at www.icaughtsanta.com. Guaranteed to add some tech to the traditions.

STEP 2

ÊHAVE Ê A CHRISTMAS CLEAR OUT There are certain inevitable facts about Christmas. You will receive an item of clothing that neither suits nor fits you. You will not have the batteries needed for 50% of the items your children open on Christmas Day. And the amount of ‘stuff’ in your home will double overnight. With that in mind, you really need a pre-Christmas clear out. Sell what you can at a local Jack and Jill market -

it’s a great time to get rid of items and make some much needed cash and saves you a packet on postage from online second hand sites. Encourage your children to fill a box with toys they no longer play with and take it to your local charity shop. As well as clearing some space for the new arrivals, it’s a way to introduce the concept of thinking of others to your little elves.

STEP 3

ÊREAD Ê OUR AGES AND STAGES GIFT GUIDE If you are wondering what to buy your newborn niece, struggling with your best friend’s five-year-old who never sits down and feeling lost, fear not. All these classic presents have stood the test of time with the Families editors’ children with a few new favourites to boot. Read on. Babies: Stacking cups or wooden bricks, try www.elc.co.uk for good value baby toys;

soft toys; soft fabric books; the That’s Not My series by Usborne Books; a beautiful mobile; Mr Whoozit by Manhattan Toys. toddlers: Anything musical, try the ELC Piano, if you can bear the noise! Colouring and sticker books (Usborne First Sticker Books series, www.usbornebooksathome. co.uk for lots and lots of stickers). Things that move – a wooden tricycle, a pushalong car and forever popular Little Tykes Cozy Coupe. Flapbooks – Maisy, Spot, Poppy Cat all have big board books with zillions of flaps for little fingers. A toy kitchen is loved by boys and girls, complete with plastic fruit and veg that you can cut up. Messy play (Play Doh and Aquadraw are both good investment toys that will last for years).

X Pendants X Charms X X Cufflinks X Keyrings X Capture your child’s fingerprint in fine silver. Hand and foot prints, Mini Masters & Love Letters. Find me on face book Call for more details & to book

abig@smallp.co.uk or 07747 707527 o.uk www.smallp.c 8 | Families Fife Issue 22

www.familiesfife.co.uk

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Boys 5–8: Lego – it lasts and lasts, and Dads usually love it too! Playmobil again: the pirate ship is a real winner with most boys. Space and Star Wars are also popular. Or try Hot Wheels, Transformers, marble towers and Magnetix. Also for this age and older we love Bizzy Bitz. Cool, addictive, educational and fun, Bizzy Bitz is a must have this Christmas! With a simple ball and socket system, Bizzy Bitz do offer

Girls 5–8: By now you can’t go wrong with dressing-up clothes as they love putting on shows, try The Disney Store. Playmobil is another favourite, girls often like the hospital, dolls’ house, castle and circus. Craft kits are also popular with this age group, try Hama Beads, ELC for complete, easy-to-follow kits for decorating mermaids, jewellery boxes etc and Yellow Moon (www. yellowmoon.org.uk). Or what about skipping ropes and hula hoops; Barbie, often linked to the most recent film. This age group would particularly benefit from a trip to Bears and Buddies.

Bears and Buddies Workshop, Dundee

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infinite possibilities: Bizzy Bitz is the only toy in the world which can help kids create accurate models of absolutely anything and everything. This has the additional advantage that if a piece goes missing you can always build hundreds of things from your remaining pieces. Different boxes available to suit the various age groups 3-6 yrs, 6-9yrs and 9-12yrs. Go to Amazon for customer reviews and see the range on www.bizzy-bitz.com and don’t forget to check our competitions page for a chance to win some. And for sports lovers, Swingball, a cricket bat, football goal or sports kit of their favourite team always go down well. Girls 9–11: By now girls often love something which makes them feel grown up, try woolly slippers from River Island, little bags from Accessorize, or a gift card from Claire’s Accessories. DIY baking sets made up of cake decorations, cutters, apron and a book all put in a pretty tin make a lovely gift – try your local Dobbies. Scrap-booking is often also popular, you could include a voucher for a local class. Other girlie ideas include picture frames, scarves, jewellery, gift vouchers for cinema and pamper vouchers at beauty salons (nail make overs). Mind and Body Fitness and Wellbeing studio in Kirkcaldy are a very good bet here. www.mindandbodystudio.co.uk

Fun Junction Toy Stop, Perth

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Boys up to 4: Duplo in all its many forms. Characters like Ben 10, Spiderman and Power Rangers. Brio train sets. Dinosaurs – books, plastic models, model-making kits etc. Wooden farm and animals are also a perennial favourite.

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traditional play. They aim to create a magical unique experience never-to-be forgotten as your new child’s new best buddy will be her friend forever. With an endless choice of clothing and accessories your child can keep her bear buddy cosy or cool! Children also take home a personalised adoption certificate to commemorate the occasion. When visiting in-store make sure you receive your loyalty card and start saving towards a free gift. Find them in the Wellgate Shopping Centre Dundee.

Girls up to 4: Dolls (soft rag dolls, Baby Annabell that they can dress, feed etc) and the Disney Princesses seem to be popular with all little girls. Characters like Dora the Explorer, Fifi and the Flowertots, and Charlie and Lola – toys, books and DVDs are all available. A dolls’ pram or buggy. Happyland sets from ELC. A doctor’s kit and dressing-up clothes – fairies, nurses etc.

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f like many children these days, your little ones are starved of the experience of actually visiting a toy shop, why not take them along to Fun Junction Toy Stop in Perth? Your children can entertain themselves happily at the play tables while you explore the exciting range of fun toys for children of all ages getting inspiration from the looks on their faces. See the selection of toys from playmobil, Sylvannian Families, Melissa and Doug, Big Jigs, John Crane, Orchard Toys, Galt, Gibson’s, Brio, Ravensburger, Top Model, Hama Beads, Sequin Art, Corolle Dolls...just to name a few brands. Stocking fillers, no problem either as there is a large selection of fun pocket money priced toys available. Friendly, knowledgeable staff will help you search out the right toy for you or your child, and will keep you informed of any special offers, competitions or activities that Fun Junction may be planning. Be inspired. For an old fashioned shopping experience visit Fun Junction....the Toy Stop. Open Sundays 11-4pm until Christmas. See ad for details.

Remember what it was like going into a proper toy shop? Well so do we. We offer an extensive range of old favourites and many new surprises. Friendly, welcoming staff will help find the perfect toy for the child in your life. This family run shop has something for all.

W: www.funjunctiontoys.com T: 01738 444222 A: 255 High Street, Perth

Bears and soft toys offer a return to

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Issue 22 Families Fife | 9

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Christmas special Boys 9–11: If they’re a sports-obssessive it’s easy: equipment, clothes, books or DVDS on their favourite team, or moment in sporting history. Most boys also like kites, scooters, wave boards and skateboards, or cool clothes to protect elbows etc. Or if they’re musical, a drum kit or guitar (do check with the parents first!). Or how about kits to make something? (Letterbox have a good selection, or try www.sciencemuseum. org.uk). Also for the technical, Minecraft the popular electronic game now does merchandise such as torches and lamps.

there are places locally who are set up to give you a hand. Why not try the Ceramic Café in Dunfermline for creative fun and present solutions?

The Ceramic Café

Just as marathons became snickers and opal fruits are now Starburst, the much-loved

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fingerprint jewellery is unique and very special as each piece has actually been touched by your child or loved one. As well as capturing your child’s unique fingerprint in fine silver, Abi can also turn your Santa’s little helpers cute drawings and handwriting into precious silver keepsakes for you to cherish forever. Christmas is Abi’s busiest time

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Ceramic Experience in Dunfermline has had a name change. The Ceramic Café as its now known, will still offer its Older kids: Excruciating but popular at creative customers the this age are karaoke CDs/downloads. Or try same fun experience a subscription to their favourite magazine – when it comes to they love getting post and nothing beats the creating great gifts and excitement of a hot-off-the press magazine. lasting mementoes. And, inevitably, PlayStation games, Wii Sports This festive and FIFA 10 on the PC. Or an iPod, season choose from mobile phone…Skateboards are plain baubles which can be popular and some of these personalised with baby hand Want to beat the are now known as Ripstick or footprints or can be overwhelming Waveboards and require painted in seasonal style consumerism of it all? constant movement to by slightly older children. Try www.goodgifts.org for keep moving so great to Young children will love some good stocking fillers; borrow after Christmas the penguins, santas, www.traidcraftshop.co.uk to shift those sneaky reindeers whilst the for masses of Fair Trade pounds. Ukeleles and older ones will love the products for children and Hula hoops also came embossed Santa or Reindeer adults alike; or try www. out as good ideas for sulky plates and bowls, ideal for sendacowgifts.org.uk teenagers due to the difficulty Christmas nibbles. Tree shaped in performing either with a straight plates or votive candle holders which let alone sulky face! can be imaginatively decorated in Christmas designs and colours make Perennial favourite: Everyone who has thoughtful gifts for mum or gran too. one says that a trampoline really is the best thing they’ve ever bought! Buy the biggest A handmade keepsake from your garden can accommodate and make Smallprint sure you’ve got a safety net. If you really want someone dear to you know how special they are this www.rospa.com for safety advice. year, then treat them to a little Remember to say piece of magic this time. Smallprint’s Abi Green produces beautiful bespoke silver STEP 4 keepsake jewellery, designed to suit ÊGET Ê CRAFTY the needs of your recipient. With a This can mean all sorts of things but if you are range that includes pendants, charms, good at something then do it and gift it. If cufflinks, keyrings, birth tags and you’re always taking photos, make someone ingots, you will find something for a photobook. www.blurb.co.uk. Perhaps any member of you family. Smallprint you can sew and have fun with the children making sock puppets or similar? Do you like being in the kitchen? You might want to experiment with making hand made truffles or soaking clemetines in your favourite tipple? If you think laterally, you’ll be able to make presents, fill a day of the holidays and have fun doing it! And don’t worry if that sounds a little too much time and effort,

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“I found it in Families”

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10 | Families Fife Issue 22

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so get your orders in early to avoid disappointment. She covers the area from Edinburgh through Fife and up to Perth. For a full list of venues and dates log onto facebook page www.facebook.com/ SmallprintEdinburghFifePerthKinross or visit www.smallprint.com/ abigailgreen. Parties in your own home also available – great idea for a friends get together at this time of year or make an appointment at Abi’s home studio. Call 077477 07527 or e-mail abig@smallp.co.uk to book.

STEP 5

ÊWATCH Ê ONE OF OUR Editor’s picks TOP 5 CHRISTMAS MOVIES Nothing lifts the spirits on a cold winter Sunday more than settling down to a festive DVD. We’ve done a straw poll in and around Families HQ and we’ve come up with our favourite five. Find them, watch them and have a very happy family Christmas. • Elf • The Snowman • The Polar Express • How the Grinch Stole Christmas • The Nativity If you have finished this article, well done. You now share the wisdom of at least 40 mums throughout the UK who’ve survived many Christmases together with their offspring, have survived and have had a whole lot of festive fun. 

‘Tis the season to be jolly, Fa la la la la, la la la la... www.familiesfife.co.uk

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Find Santa

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Lights on and where to meet, greet and eat with Santa Sunday 17th November Ê25th Ê Mercat Reindeer Parade & Santa’s Grotto Mercat Reindeer Parade will start at 12.00pm from Thistle Street and continue around the Town Centre, arriving back at the Mercat Centre at approximately 12.45pm. Santa will be on his sleigh pulled by his reindeer and led by Kirkcaldy & District Pipe Band. They will also be joined by Santa’s special helper, some famous book characters and a Mermaid. Santa’s grotto will open at the centre at approximately 1:30pm and there will be free antler hats and face painting. The grotto will be open 7 days a week from Sunday 17th November until Christmas Eve. Opening hours will be from 12pm to 4pm Sunday to Thursday and 11am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday. Prices for the grotto will start from £4 for visit and gift with various prices for photos with Santa depending on family numbers. Sunday 17th November ÊChristmas Ê Lights Switch On – Kingdom Shopping Centre This year we have an extra special treat – with a well known celebrity switching on our Christmas Lights. The artist will be backed by the New Look team offering a Gok Wang style fashion extravaganza and the UK wide Rock Choir warming up the crowd. Thurs 21st Nov – Tues 24th Dec ÊSantas Ê Grotto Kingdom Shopping Centre, Glenrothes Make a date with Santa in his grotto, Thursday to Sunday every week before Christmas, Santa will be in his grotto the whole week before Christmas! The grotto will be located in Unicorn Square, across from Argos. The cost is £3.50 for one child to visit Santa, receive a gift and a photograph. Saturday 23rd November ÊChristmas Ê Lights Switch On 1pm-5pm Kirkcaldy, High Street Corner of Tolbooth St. Come and join in with the music, entertainment and festive carols with the official count-down to the Christmas Lights Switch on at 5pm. Join in the fun with Mr & Mrs Santa, Sid & Scrat from Ice Age and much more! Don’t forget to bring your camera! ÊMagical Ê Lantern Parade - Kirkcaldy Starts at 4.15pm on the High Street outside the Mercat, round the Town Square and back to the High Street for the count-down to Christmas Lights Switch on. If you don’t have a lantern, FREE glow sticks will be available! ÊPerth Ê Winter Festival The festival has been extended this year in

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Dunfermline Winter Festival and Christmas Lights Switch On 2013

xperience the childhood magic of Christmas in the heart of Fife as Dunfermline launches its festive season on Saturday 23rd of November. Organised by BIDS company, Dunfermline Delivers, the Winter Festival will offer a jam-packed day of family entertainment. Join in with the carol singers, loose yourself in the magic as storytellers narrate famous festive fables, watch the charming street magicians or take a spin at the winter funfair. There

is lots to take part in such as street juggling, Samba dancing and festive art & crafts for little ones. Kingdom FM’s official Christmas road show will keep the crowds entertained on the High Street and at the Glen Gates with their family stages providing hours of family games, music, entertainment and Christmas sing-along’s from 2pm. Santa, pulled by his faithful reindeers, will make a special pit stop from the North Pole to the Eastport at 4.15pm for his annual

view of Perth’s City status. It includes the Christmas Lights Festival on Saturday 23 November. Starting at 11am, the day will be packed with street performances and musical entertainment and attractions across the city centre, including ice sculpting and an ice rink (23-30 Nov), pleasure rides and a huge variety of delicious treats. This year the annual Santa Parade will be extended and feature a variety of vehicles and entertainers along with community performers. A spectacular firework display will round- off the event. ÊFestive Ê Fayre at Brewers Fayre Brewers Fayre in Dunfermline are now taking bookings for the festive season. For families who don’t wish to spend Christmas Day cooking, they offer a 3 course Christmas Day meal for £42.99 per adult and £14.99 per child with under 3s eating FREE with a paying adult. They also promise families attending their Hogmanay Party an excellent night with the Fun Factory open till 11.45pm, providing supervised soft play facilities and a disco for the children. Sit and enjoy a family meal, then let the children run off steam. Adults eat for £29.99 a head and kids eat for £19.99. There will also be a piper at the bells to complete the festive atmosphere. Also back by popular demand are the Breakfast with Santa dates. Six dates in total on 14/15/21/22/23 and 24 December at 10am –11.35am. Each child receives a small

parade of well-wishing, led by Dunfermline’s Pipe Band down the High Street to the Glen before the city switches on its magical wonderland at 5pm. Local business and retailers will join in with the festive magic with shop décorations and winter food and fashion offers making it a magical day. The Dunfermline Winter Festive will take place from 2pm until 6pm on Saturday 23rd November.  Visit: www. connectingwithyou.co.uk

gift from Scooby Doo. Extremely popular. Bookings only. Don’t forget your camera. Their regular Festive menu will also be available from 19th November to the end of December (excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day) priced from £8.99 for 2 courses and £4.99 for under 12s. Tel: 01383 840070. 

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Scoo E b Doo y Gift!

Issue 22 Families Fife | 11

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Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy

his Christmas The Little Mermaid is on at Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy from Friday the 6th December to Saturday 11th January, 2014. Taking on the role of Dame Coral Reef, proprietor of the Blistering Barnacle Tavern is panto favourite Billy Mack. With an under water twist, music, comedy, dance, hilarity and some magic to boot, Fife’s favourite pantomime at the Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy, is sure to make a splash this Christmas, in this timeless tail of a girl who longs to see the world above the sea and meet the man of her dreams. Add to this mix some world class dance from the TwoFaced Dance Company, with her team of B Boys who will simply blow

you away with their stunningly physical routines. Plus a chorus of wonderfully talented local children chosen from hundreds who auditioned – and a very first for Fife, real magic from Liam Black (Edinburgh’s Got Talent Finalist 2013).  The Little Mermaid at Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy runs from Friday 6th December 2013 until Saturday 11th January 2014. Tickets: £14.50, children and concessions £11.00. Early booking advised: Box Office: 01592 583302 or online at onfife.com

The Singing Kettle Wishing Well, Perth Concert Hall

he Singing Kettle will be at their brilliant best for this new festive show. It’s overflowing with audience participation and lots and lots of Christmassy fun. Join Anya, Kevin and Gary as they visit Kettle Village Square in search of the magic Christmas Wishing Well. Enthralling for both young and old, some lucky children will end up on stage to join in the action and there may even be a visit from a very special guest in a red suit! Remember to wear a Santa hat and bring a bucket for the well. “…a delight for kids, parents and grandparents alike. The laughter, singing and interaction is contagious” Edinburgh Evening News.  £15; family saver £56; Adult with babe in arms (under 12mths) £17 (includes booking fee). Mon 23 Dec: 12pm + 3pm Tue 24 Dec: 11am + 2pm.

12 | Families Fife Issue 22

Cinderella

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Entertainment and Shows The Little Mermaid

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Pinocchio

Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline

rom the team behind last years magical sell-out Hansel and Gretel comes one of the world’s most famous fairy tales, Pinocchio. Ben Fitzpatrick, who you may remember as Hansel from last year’s hit Christmas show, returns to Carnegie Hall to bring Pinocchio to life, in this magical well-known tale. With a lovely singing voice, Ben’s mischievous and engaging character was a huge hit with audiences in 2012 and he is sure to wow the audience again this year. Joining Pinocchio there’s a host of familiar faces and characters, from the well loved book and also on screen, including the blue fairy and cat, played by River City star Pamela Byrne, Jiminy Cricket played by Suzi Budd, and also introducing Tyler Collins as Eduardo the fox and Gordon Brandie taking on the roles of Gepetto and Stromboli. Join Pinocchio on his fantastic adventures and a thrilling quest that will test his bravery, loyalty and honesty; all the virtues he must learn to become a real boy. But will Pinocchio succeed in his quest to become a real little boy in time for Christmas?  Tickets from only £7.50. Prepare for singing, shouting, and laughing out loud to this feel-good, fun, family show. Carnegie Hall from Friday 29th November to Tuesday 24th December. Box Office:(01383) 602302, East Port, Dunfermline, KY12 7JA. Or online at www. onfife.com * BSL Sign Language Interpreted performance: Thursday 12th December, 7pm.

Perth Theatre

gly sisters have all the fun. They’ve pulled on their fancy clothes and gone to the royal party, but poor Cinderella must stay behind in her rags to tidy up after them! Her heart may be pure and true, but will Cinders ever dance at a ball? Will she meet her handsome prince and live happily ever after? Will she even get some decent shoes? One thing is for sure, she is going to need more than a Fairy Godmother to help her. So please warm up your singing voices, break out your boos and cheers and join Cinderella and friends in Perth’s beautiful

theatre for a magical festive treat. Brought to you by the same team who created last year’s fun-filled Mother Goose and packed with great songs, amazing dance routines and plenty of laughter, this enchanting ‘rags-to-riches’ tale, officially the nation’s favourite panto, is the perfect Christmas treat for all the family.  Written by Alan McHugh Directed by Rachel O’Riordan, Cinderella runs in Perth Theatre from Friday 6 December until Saturday 4 January. For tickets contact Horsecross Arts Box Office on 01738 621031 Visit www.horsecross.co.uk

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Clubs and Classes Dressing up and speaking out

ood was an important part of Autumn term at the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy – we sizzled like pizzas, bounced like jolly tomatoes, behaved like slinky cheese, cheeky mushrooms and bossy onions –we discovered a vegetarian lion, an exploding cake and shared a burger in the park. As Christmas approaches there will be more chances to dress up – and to panic as we shop last-minute, to calm down as we leave it all to the elves – and to create our own plays and situations. “Wearing costumes can help create different characters,” says the Principal, Barbara. “They embolden the children to speak out, fire their imagination and boost their confidence”. 

Nutritionist? Horticulturalist? Celebrity chef?

Classes are held weekly for 5 – 15 year olds throughout Fife and Perth. Visit www.helenogradyeastcentralscotland.co.uk

Shuffledance-athon!

Lourdes Church in Dunfermline. The day was organised by head of the Dance School Gillian Syme, to raise the money needed to buy costumes for next years show. Gillian was proud as punch of

ictured here are the boys and girls who strutted their stuff and danced their hearts out on Saturday 19th October in an hour long Danceathon with no breaks, which took place in Our Lady of

Shuffle Dance part of ‘EveryBodyDance Group’

u creative dance u street dance u jazz u zumbatomic u u u

From £4 per class, Payable in blocks From 2 years to adults

New classes in Dunfermline Burntisland Dalgety Bay & Rosyth

the children and their efforts were rewarded with a Danceathon Certificate for each participant. Gillian is pleased to annouce more classes as Shuffledance have expanded again. Due to demand for classes in Burntisland she has introduced new classes; Street Dance for P1-7 and Macho Moves, Boys only class for P1-7's to add to their 2 Preschool classes 

At Sparkle Arts we encourage children aged 1-5 to develop and learn through a fun mix of music, dance and drama. Our classes bring subjects to life to accelerate learning, whilst building confidence and improving social skills. It’s a creative education that will make little minds sparkle and teach children skills that will last a lifetime.

Go online to find out more and book a class.

sparklearts.co.uk make learning fun.

gillian@everybodydancegroup.co.uk

07800 560290 www.everybodydancegroup.co.uk

for little feet that love to dance!

e ev

t through Dram n e m a op

Classes in Perth, Kinross and Fife

the ultimate pre -school dance experience! For details of these classes contact KATE on 07734 446186, find us on Facebook Disco Duck Dunfermline with Kate or email discoduckdunfermline@yahoo.co.uk

www.disco-duck.co.uk www.familiesfife.co.uk

01382 330052

www.helenogrady.co.uk

Issue 22 Families Fife | 13

Out and About Oct/Nov 2013

Sat 26th Oct, 2nd, 9th & 16th November

Christmas Lantern Making Mercat Shopping Centre Kirkcaldy

Make a FREE Christmas lantern and take part in the magical lantern parade in the Town Centre on 23rd November. Workshops every Saturday from 26th Oct – 16th November in the Mercat Community Events Unit. Saturday 2nd November 2013 Limekilns Bonfire & Fireworks Display

Annual charity fireworks display by the 81st Fife Sea Scout Group. Hot food and refreshments available.Scout Hall Capernaum, Brucehaven Road, Limekilns KY11 3JR 7pm Family of 4 £10.00 Per Person £3.00.

we hope the kids will come along in fancy dress. Please book early. Bonfire will start at 6.30pm with fireworks shortly afterwards. For those not attending meal & disco, bonfire tickets are £2.00 and £1.00, in advance. Tuesday 5th November 2013

Jack & Jill Market Dunfermline

10.30am - 1.00pm at The Vine Conference Centre, Garvock Hill, KY11 4JU You will find 40 stalls of nearly-new baby & kids items (0-9yrs). You can’t afford to miss it and miss out! Adults £1 entry - Kids FREE. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Sunday 3rd November

FREE EVENT - Dunfermline Fireworks – see page 5 Perth Strathearn 200 Round Table organise Perth Fireworks

Free event -donations welcome – see page 5 Thursday 7th & Friday 8th November The Worm at The Lochgelly Centre

The Worm - Suitable for 3-7 year-olds www.onfife.com Friday 8th November TotFest 2013 Paperbelle The Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy 10.30am & 3.30pm

An enchanting theatre performance for children aged 2 to 5 years and their families, friends, schools and nurseries. www.onfife.com Charity ladies shopping night

Queen Anne High School in Dunfermline on 8th November from 7-9.30. All money raised will go towards Pancreatic Cancer UK Contact: 07973 310138 Saturday 9th November Craft Fair Victory Memorial Hall, St Andrews

Jack & Jill Market Glenrothes

10.30am - 1.00pm at Michael Woods Sport & Leisure Centre, Viewfield, KY6 2RD You will find 50+ stalls of nearly-new baby & kids items (0-9yrs). You can’t afford to miss it and miss out! Adults £1 entry - Kids FREE. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk Kirkcaldy Golf Club Bonfire, Fireworks and Disco

Kirkcaldy Golf Club’s annual firework display. This year we will be having a carvery meal between 3pm and 4pm (adults £9.00, children £6.00). This will be followed by games and disco until 6pm. There will be a Halloween theme, so

10 – 5pm. While children have fun at our workshop making Christmas decorations, why not relax, enjoy coffee and a mince pie and find some unusual Christmas gifts? TotFest 2013 Paperbelle The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline. See 8th November

Dunfermline Fireworks 2013

Hopetoun Bonfire & Fireworks Night

Hopetoun House, nr Edinburgh.Tickets from farm shop. Adult tickets are priced at £10, Children £6, Children aged 3 and under are free. Gates open from 4pm - Last Entry 6pm Fireworks Display approx 6.30pm, no tickets for sale at the gates for this event.

Carnegie Birthplace Museum Dunfermline

10am – 4pm www.walkaboutcrafts.com/fca.htm Christmas Festival Craft Fair at Loch Leven Community Campus. Kinross, KY13 8FQ

Admission is FREE to the public. Stalls with local artisans selling beautiful hand crafted goods. There will be a number of Christmas Craft workshops and demonstrations and a number of children’s craft activities. 10am-4pm Christmas Fair, St Bryce Kirk, St Brycedale Avenue, Kirkcaldy

10-4pm

Sunday 10th November TotFest 2013 Paperbelle The Rothes Halls Glenrothes. See 8th November

Monday 11th November Polar bears go wild Totfest 2013. The Rothes Halls Glenrothes

If you’re aged 5 or under, then here’s the show for you. Get here on your skis / snowshoes / tractor, or paddle your canoe. www.onfife.com TotFest 2013 PaperbelleThe Lochgelly Centre Lochgelly. See 8th November

Tuesday 12th November Polar bears go wild Totfest 2013The Carnegie Hall Dunfermline. See 11th November

Wed 13th & Thurs 14th November Polar bears go wild Totfest 2013 The Lochgelly Centre Lochgelly

See 11th November Friday 15th & Saturday 16th November Polar bears go wild Totfest 2013 The Adam Smith Theatre Kirkcaldy

See 11th November Saturday 16th November Take a break Christmas shopping event Perth

Grampian Hotel, York Place, Perth. Visit the Grampian Hotel on Sat 16 Nov between 12 - 4pm for a fantastic Christmas shopping event. There will be 20 stalls for shopping, tombola stall and a face painter for the children. £1 entry (children go free). For more information contact take-a-break@hotmail.co.uk Craft Fair Dysart Kirk, Dysart

10am – 3pm. www.walkaboutcrafts.com/fca.htm

Children’s Christmas Workshop Andrew

Sat 16th November – Sun 24th November Kinross-shire’s Winter Festival

A Splashtastic Family Pantomime Starring Billy Mack as Dame Coral Reef

14 | Families Fife Issue 22

Fri 6 Dec 2013 – Saturday 11 Jan 2014

Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy Tickets from £10 High Teas available Box Office: 01592 583302 onfife.com

A festival celebrating all local events in Kinrossshire during November and December. Music (Ricky Ross from Deacon Blue (16 Nov), Kinrossshire’s Got Talent (15 Nov), Festive Street Market (23 Nov), Afternoon Tea Dance (24 Nov) and a lot more events and workshops for all ages. See www.kinrosswinterfestival.co.uk Kingsgate Centre Dunfermline Carnegie Hall Christmas show promotion and character meet and greet.

Sunday 17th November Christmas Lights Switch On – Kingdom Shopping Centre. See page 5

Wed 20th & 27th Nov & Wed 4th Dec Gift Shop Christmas Late Night Shopping Falkland Palace & Garden

www.familiesfife.co.uk

familiesfife.co.uk/whatson Get in the festive Falkland spirit and enjoy a leisurely day or evening in our beautiful gift shop shopping for your family and friend’s Christmas presents, perhaps you will even find a little something for yourself?! As a special gift to you from us, enjoy 10% off on the day. Other shops in Falkland will also be open late on these dates and will be offering 10% off purchases. 10:00 – 22:00 0844 4932186 Thurs 21st Nov – Tues 24th Dec

everyone’s favourite wooden puppet - suitable for those 3+ www.onfife.com see page 11 Sat 30th Nov & Sun 1st Dec & Sat 14th Dec Christmas craft markets, King Edward Street, Perth

Come and browse over 40 stalls of beautiful handcrafted items. King Boar Catering will be offering up tasty Bratwurst and spit roast pig. Saturday 30th November

Fri 6th Dec - 4th Jan 2014 Cinderella Perth Theatre

Brought to you by the same team who created last year’s fun-filled Mother Goose and packed with great songs, amazing dance routines and plenty of laughter, this enchanting ‘rags-to-riches’ tale, officially the nation’s favourite panto, is the perfect Christmas treat for all the family. www.horsecross.co.uk Friday 6th – Saturday 7th December

Santas Grotto Kingdom Shopping Centre

Kingsgate Shopping Centre Dunfermline

Make a date with Santa in his grotto. See page 10

Catch the Alhambra panto characters and songs in the centre

Peter Pan by Cowdenbeath Community Theatre, The Lochgelly Centre

Jack & Jill Market Dunfermline

CCT will be presenting Peter Pan (script by Ron Hall) this year with plenty of songs and dances, with some of the cast actually flying making great entertainment for the kiddies. www.onfife.com

Friday 22nd - Sunday 24 November 2013 Perth’s festival of chocolate!

King Edward Street, Perth. www.perthcity.co.uk Saturday 23rd November Come and see Sid & Scrat from the Ice Age Kirkcaldy

Come and see Sid and Scrat from Ice Age with the opportunity to take photos. 1pm – 5pm in the High Street (corner of Tolbooth Street). Don’t forget to bring your camera! Magical Lantern Parade - Kirkcaldy

Starts at 4.15pm on the High Street outside the Mercat, round the Town Square and back to the High Street for the count-down to Christmas Lights Switch on. If you don’t have a lantern, FREE glow sticks will be available! Christmas Lights Switch On – Kirkcaldy

Music, entertainment and festive carols. See page 10

10.30am - 1.00pm at The Vine Conference Centre, Garvock Hill, KY11 4JU 40 stalls bursting with bargains on quality nearly-new baby & kids items (0-9yrs). Adults £1 entry - Kids FREE. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

December 2013 Sunday 1st December

www.CraftFairsUK.co.uk Kingsgate Shopping Centre

Gin in a teacup appearing in the Event Area as part of our Christmas Vintage Fayre.

This market will be set up slightly differently with half the stalls being inside Marchmont Gate & the outside only stalls under cover next to the Rothes Halls entrance. The market is free to attend and is in operation from 9am – 1pm. Sunday 24th & Monday 25th November What the Ladybird Heard. The Lochgelly Centre, Lochgelly. Delightful tale for young

children! www.onfife.com Tuesday 26th November The Edibles - Totfest 2013 The Rothes Halls, Glenrothes

Magical ingredients and especially made for children aged 3–7 years old.Featuring live music, minimal language and actual baking on stage. A winter treat not to be missed! www.onfife.com Wednesday 27th November The Edibles - Totfest 2013, The Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline. See Tuesday 27th

Friday 29th November - 24th December Pinocchio, The Carnegie Hall, Dunfermline

Brand new Christmas version of the tale of

www.familiesfife.co.uk

Fri 6th Dec – Sat 11th Jan 2014 The Little Mermaid The Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy

Christmas Charity Craft Fair 11-3pm Queensferry Hotel, North Queensferry

Hans Christian Anderson’s most popular fairy tale ever- The Little Mermaid See page 11 for details. www.onfife.com

In aid of the Tussell Trust and Dunfermline Food bank. Bring a tin to donate. Stalls, jewellery, cupcakes, cards facepainting. Fun. Tel: 07743199531

The Great Scottish Cake Off, Dunfermline High School

Monday 2nd – Sun 8th December Kingsgate Christmas Craft Fayre. Event Area

Christmas Fife Farmers Market - Glenrothes

Created specially for 3 to 5 year olds, it’s Christmas fun, but not quite as we know. www.onfife.com

Craft & Gift Fair, Toll Centre, Burntisland

Dunfermline Winter Festival 2013

An assortment of free family entertainment – See page 10

Platypus in BootsThe Lochgelly Centre

Saturday 7th December Christmas Wreath and Decorations Workshop Falkland Palace & Garden

Join our garden team to make an attractive Christmas wreath and a table decoration using greenery and cuttings from our garden. 10:00 – 17:00 0844 4932186 or email falklandpalace&garden@nts.org.uk Booking required. Sat 7th & 14th Sun 8th & 15th Dec Festive Christmas Open Weekends Falkland Palace & Garden

Experience the Christmas spirit with rooms in the Palace beautifully decorated for the season. Our enchanting historic chapel will have local choirs singing, come and listen or even join in yourself! 12:00-15:00 Tel: 0844 4932186 Thurs 5th Dec - Sun 8th Dec The Singing Kettle - Christmas Wishing WellThe Rothes Halls Glenrothes

The Singing Kettle will be at their brilliant best for this sensational new festive Show. It’s overflowing with superb audience participation, amazing costumes and lots and lots of christmassy fun. Join Anya, Kevin and Gary as they visit Kettle Village Square in search of the magic Christmas Wishing Well. www.onfife.com

Saturday 7th December

The fun cake bake with a competitive twist in aid of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland. Categories for Adults, S1-S6, and P1-P7 children. Plus: raffle, mini manicures, coffee bar and more! Judging starts at 11.30am, doors open from 11am / Entry: £3 adults / £1.50 children over 5 Includes samples of cakes entered for judging. Tel: 01383 602351 Sunday 8th December Community Showcase The Kingdom Shopping Centre, Glenrothes Local talent show www. kingdomshoppingcentre.co.uk Kingsgate Shopping Centre Dunfermline Toon Band sing Christmas Carols. Monday 16th to 24th December Kingsgate Shopping Centre Italian Food Market

Monday 23rd & Tuesday 24th December The Singing Kettle - Christmas Wishing Well The Perth Concert Hall The Singing Kettle will be at their brilliant best for this new festive show. www.horsecross.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to compile the Out and About section with accuracy, please remember to check with the venue before making plans to avoid any disappointment as Families magazine is put together weeks in advance of actual publication.

Issue 22 Families Fife | 15

A Horsecross Arts production

Written by Alan McHugh | Directed by Rachel Oâ€™Riordan

Fri 6 Dec 2013 - Sat 4 Jan 2014

tickets: 01738 621031 www.horsecross.co.uk Horsecross Arts Ltd is a charity registered in Scotland, no SC022400

16 | Families Fife Issue 22