The John Muir Festival opened with the spectacular launch of The Kelpies in Falkirk. Thousands thronged Helix Park, Falkirk to enjoy a variety of artworks on the theme of Scotland as 'Home' before a breathtaking performance at the gigantic horse head sculptures staged by Groupe F.

Photo credit: Alan McAteer

Official opening of the John Muir Way

First minister Alex Salmond officially opened the John Muir Way at the glebe in Dunbar on Monday 21 April. Thousands enjoyed the Festival atmosphere in the sunshine with celebratory art, music, performance and food stalls. Ramblers, runners and cyclists participated in the first leg of the relay 'A Flag For John Muir' to North Berwick.

Photo credit: Alan McAteer.

North Berwick, Seabird Centre
A Flag for John Muir.
Ramblers, runners and cyclists were invited to see the world anew through Kenny Bean's Caravan Obscura, have a chat with John Muir himself via the Mischief la Bas performers and seedbomb native flowers with Darren Wilson.

Photo: Members of the Ramblers Association at North Berwick.

Edinburgh Quay, Fountainbridge
A Flag for John Muir.
Ramblers, runners and cyclists were invited to see the world anew through Kenny Bean's Caravan Obscura, have a chat with John Muir himself via the Mischief la Bas performers and seedbomb native flowers with Darren Wilson.

Photo: The Braids Running Girls met several John Muirs at Edinburgh Quay before setting off to run a section of the John Muir Way to Corstorphine Hill.

Linlithgow Palace, 9.30am.
A Flag for John Muir.
Ramblers, runners and cyclists were invited to see the world anew through Kenny Bean's Caravan Obscura, have a chat with John Muir himself via the Mischief la Bas performers and seedbomb native flowers with Darren Wilson.

Photo: Local schoolchildren meet two John Muirs at Linlithgow Palace.

Kirkintilloch, High Street.
A Flag for John Muir.
Ramblers, runners and cyclists were invited to see the world anew through Kenny Bean's Caravan Obscura, have a chat with John Muir himself via the Mischief la Bas performers and seedbomb native flowers with Darren Wilson.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens.
3 Poets & Some Seed: Alec Finlay, Gerry Loose & Andrew Schelling.
Poems inspired by a walk planting seeds, along the John Muir Way. Gerry Loose and Alec Finlay are joined by Andrew Schelling, of the USA, renowned for his Sanskrit translations.

Photo: Flag bearers and John Muirs at Kirkintilloch.

JOHN MUIR FESTIVAL FINALE

Early bird ramblers carried a flag for John Muir from Croftamie, Wayfarers Pub and Balloch Castle.

The Helensburgh Afternoon Finale celebrated the end of the route with a fun, family procession of flags from The Hill House to Hermitage Park with music, artworks and street theatre.

Gathering at The Hill House, Helensburgh a flag procession of John Muir Flags led by Helensburgh and District Pipe Band set off for Hermitage Park where there was UZ Arts commissioned artworks, walkabout theatre, choir performance, and food stalls.

Loch Lomond shores, Balloch The Festival drew to a fitting close on the banks of Scotland's first National Park with a celebration of the life and legacy of John Muir and an evening of music, street theatre, artistic installations and much-lauded pyrotechnics.

The free and unticketed Festival finale attracted a large and appreciative crowd many of whom attended a memorable indoor concert at the Gateway Centre, Loch Lomond Shores with Scottish contemporary folk band Breabach.

Edinburgh Real Life Science Studio, Royal Botanic Garden.
3 Poets & Some Seed: Alec Finlay, Gerry Loose & Andrew Schelling
Poems inspired by a walk planting seeds, along the John Muir Way. Gerry Loose and Alec Finlay are joined by Andrew Schelling, of the USA, renowned for his Sanskrit translations. Artist's blog. Seed Collecting

21 April
Bo'ness Community Cabin, Boundary Street.
Lantern-Making and Lantern-Lit Procession
Make your own lantern during the day and join the evening lantern-lit procession through Bo’ness. Finish at the Corbie Inn for the launch of a special brew to celebrate the official opening of the John Muir Way. All ages welcome. Please see Falkirk Community Trust for more information.

21 April
Corbie Inn
John Muir Sessions with Falkirk Folk Club
As part of the Lantern-lit procession, join Falkirk Folk Club for a night of traditional music and song inspired by the power and beauty of the natural world in celebration of John Muir and the opening of the John Muir Way. Free, no booking required. Over 18s only. Please see Falkirk Folk Club for more details.

23 April
Hippodrome, 7.30pm.
Chasing Ice
Jeff Orlowski / USA 2012 / 1h20m / 12A
Screening of documentary 'Chasing Ice' as part of the John Muir Film Festival. National Geographic photographer James Balog set out to capture incontrovertible evidence of climate warming’s impact via an ambitious, multi-continent project visually documenting the increased speed of glacial melting over a matter of years. A profoundly cinematic experience featuring breathtaking time-lapse footage.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Please call 01324 506850 for tickets. Tickets £6/£4.50. Family Ticket £2 adults/2children or 1 adult/3children £16.40. See Hippodrome website for information on the screening. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

24 April
Kinneil Museum, 5.45 pm.
Kinneil Past and Present Evening Walk
Join us on a guided walk to explore Kinneil estate and Bo’ness foreshore. Learn the old forgotten secrets of the area from guides from the Inner Forth Landscape Initiative, and find out about what makes the Inner Forth one of the busiest places for migrating birds in the country from our RSPB guide. Meet at 5:45 for a 6pm start from Kinneil Museum that will take us around the estate and down to the Forth estuary, before looping round back up to the museum. The walk will last approximately two hours and hot drink will be provided at the end of the walk. Stout footwear and warm clothing are recommended. Free. Booking essential, telephone 01324 832953. Please visit Inner Forth Landscape or RSPB Events for more details.

26 April
Kinneil House, 12.30 - 4 pm
Open Day
Weekend event to coincide with the launch of the new John Muir Way, which runs through Kinneil. The event will focus on the landscape of Kinneil Estate and the influence of the powerful Hamilton family. See inside the amazing Kinneil House, hear from a costumed interpreter and go on a walk around the surrounding parklands... packed with historical features (and great flora and fauna). Kinneil Museum will be open from 12.30 pm until 4 pm and the House open noon until 3 pm (last admission 2.30pm). Event continues on the Sunday. For walk times check website or call 01506 778530. Free, no booking required.

26 April
Hippodrome, 7.30pm
Into the Wild
Sean Penn / USA 2007 / 2h28m / 15
Writer/director Sean Penn's powerful and moving adaptation of Jon Krakauer's non-fiction account of the wanderings of Chris McCandless, a young man who leaves behind his friends, family and possessions in search of a greater spiritual knowledge and communion with nature.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Please call 01324 506850 for tickets. Tickets £6/£4.50. Family Ticket £2 adults/2children or 1 adult/3children £16.40. Please see Hippodrome website for information on the screening. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

26 April
Hippodrome, 11 am
Over The Hedge
Tim Johnson & Karey Kirkpatrick / USA 2006 / 1h23m / No dialogue / U
With the voices of Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell, Wanda Sykes, William Shatner, Nick Nolte. Animated.
When greedy raccoon RJ gets caught stealing the snack stash of a ferocious bear, he's given a week to replace it all or become part of the food chain himself. With time running out, the scheming RJ fools a makeshift family of woodland creatures into helping him to steal food from the new and terrifying world of suburbia, which has recently encroached on their once-natural habitat.
This screening is part of Wild Places - John Muir Film Festival.Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Please call 01324 506850 for tickets. Tickets £2.30 as part of Reel Saturday. See Hippodrome website for information on the screening. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter. Book tickets by calling 01324506850 or visit the Hippodrome website

27 April
Hippodrome 2.30 pm
Over The Hedge (Autism Friendly)
Tim Johnson & Karey Kirkpatrick / USA 2006 / 1h23m / No dialogue / U
With the voices of Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell, Wanda Sykes, William Shatner, Nick Nolte. Animated.
When greedy raccoon RJ gets caught stealing the snack stash of a ferocious bear, he's given a week to replace it all or become part of the food chain himself. With time running out, the scheming RJ fools a makeshift family of woodland creatures into helping him to steal food from the new and terrifying world of suburbia, which has recently encroached on their once-natural habitat.
This screening is part of Wild Places - John Muir Film Festival. Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Please call 01324 506850 for tickets. See Hippodrome website for information on the screening. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter. Book tickets by calling 01324506850 or visit the Hippodrome website

Date TBC
Kinneil Foreshore & Kinneil Estate.
Family treasure hunt and geocache event will help participants discover and explore the foreshore area and the woodland and meadow habitats. The geocache points will also be spread throughout Kinneil Estate which has a medieval church, 15th century house, Roman remains, woodlands and grassland. Participants will need to supply their own phone with GPS, or GPS device. Free, no booking required. Visit the website or Facebook for more details.

23 April
Birnam Arts & Conference Centre
Screening of 'Project Wild Thing', a film by David Bond
Project Wild Thing is a movement to get kids and grown ups playing outside more, roaming freely and reconnecting with the natural world on our doorsteps.
Event organised by the Caingorms National Park Authority and in partnership with the John Muir Trust. Please see website, Facebook or Twitter for more information. The event is free and unticketed, with refreshments available.

23 & 24 April
Blackness Castle
Medieval Construction Science Show
Discover how Medieval castles were built in this cross curricular show. P4-S1 pupils will help our Medieval stonemason, Peter, in demonstrations that explore energy, forces and technology. The Learning Services team develops and provides opportunities for learners of all ages to actively engage with their heritage through activities, resources and projects. Event aimed at schools only. Session at: 9.50; 11.10; 12.40; 2.00. Free, with booking essential through Historic Scotland Education Visits scheme: 0131 652 8155/56 or hslearning@scotland.gsi.gov.uk.

16 April
Library, 170 Kirkintilloch Road, 11am.
John Muir Lantern Making Workshop
EDLC’s Easter holiday programme celebrates pioneer of conservation John Muir and all things environmental! Join us for free lantern making sessions, then show off your creations at our John Muir Lantern Procession. Free, book your place on edlct.bookings@eastdunbarton.gov.uk. Ages 4+, Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Visit EDLC's website for further information.

23 April
Palacerigg Country Park, 7pm
Nature's Peace - the Spirit of John Muir
Author Peter Wright invites audiences to imagine they are journeying along the wilder spine of Scotland. For all those who love wild places this richly colourful and evocative journey is an inspirational delight. For further information please visit Wright's website or see his Twitter or Facebook. To book a place please email peter.wright@ribbonofwildness.co.uk, an entry fee of £2 is payable at the event.

19 April, 2pm
The Walled Garden, Archerfield Estate, Dirleton EH39 5HQ

Bring the kids along to The Walled Garden on Easter Saturday afternoon between 2 and 4pm for our John Muir Festival event. There'll be a special yurt on site for face painting and nature craft activity as well as the Magical Musical Walled Garden Trail - a guided wander along our paths with the brilliant Being in Rhythm.

Tickets to include all activities and materials: £5 available on the day, subject to availability.

The Walled Garden is a new destination in East Lothian, located on the historic Archerfield Estate. Housing a brewery and a gallery shop showcasing local art and craft, as well as a restaurant serving seasonal, local produce, The Walled Garden is also committed to celebrating the Estate flora and fauna and countryside trails. For more information visit the website, Facebook or Twitter.

5 April – 21 April
John Muir’s Birthplace
Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun 1pm – 5pm
Drop in to John Muir’s Birthplace in Dunbar to design and make your own flag to celebrate the opening of the new John Muir Way. Everyone welcome, no booking required. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. John Muir’s Birthplace is free to visit and is the Dunbar terminus of the new John Muir Way, officially being opened on 21 April. Come and learn more about the man who inspired the John Muir Way and the John Muir Festival. Find out more at John Muir's Birthplace.

5 April - 3 May
Dunbar Town House
In a Natural State
An exhibition at Dunbar Town House by the Scottish artist Emma Herman-Smith. The exhibition comprises selected sculptures and prints, which capture the dynamic actions of nature in the process of growth and decay. Presented by North Light Arts, the exhibition comprises selected sculptures and prints, which capture the dynamic actions of nature in the process of growth and decay. Presented by North Light Arts, an artist-led organisation delivering innovative public arts projects and educational initiatives in and around Dunbar. Free entry. Please visit North Light Arts website or Facebook page for more information.

10 - 22 April
Dunbar Garden Centre are running a 'John Muir themed Easter bunny hunt'!
It is FREE and open to children from all ages to enter. It will be starting on Thursday 10th April and closing on Tuesday 22nd April, the hunt will only take a few minutes to complete. All the entries will be put together and a winner chosen at random on the 22nd. The winner will then be notified that their prize is ready for collection.

19 April
Dunbar Film Society, West Barns Village Hall, 3.15pm
Grizzly Man
Werner Herzog / USA 2005 / 1h44m / 15
Filmmaker Werner Herzog, perennially fascinated by obsession, here takes on the strange case of Timothy Treadwell, who spent 13 summers in Alaska living among grizzly gears and chronicling their lives on video. The animals he loved, however, were to be his downfall. Screening as part of Wild Places: John Muir Film Festival.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £4 (£10 family) pay on door only. Please see www.dunbarfilm.org.uk website for information on the screening. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter

20 April
Lochend Woods, Dunbar. 10am - 6pm
Celebrating the Launch of John Muir Way

Your Woodland is embracing the spirit of Dunbar's most famous son on Sunday 20th April. We are gearing up for a day of JM fun in the woods!

10am - Bird identification walk - with David Bates, our convenor.
11am - Easter Egg Hunt for the wee ones - with DCWG
12 - 5pm - Log Drum workshop - with Andy Penicuik.
12.30 Food/lunch, setting fire in the clay oven and the camp-fire
2.30 - 'Mad about Muir' - a promenade play in the woods, by Quids In theatre.
3.30 - planting of a sequoia tree, and wild flower.
4.30 - Woodland Barbecue - pay as you eat: venison steaks, venison burgers, wild garlic and nettle soup, baked goodies from the clay oven.
5.30pm - story telling around the camp fire.

Most events will take place at the Gathering Space near the corner of Kellie/Middlemas Road. All Welcome. Please see Dunbar Community Woodland Group for more information.

12 April and 3 May Walk with Wendy Robertson Fyfe in the spirit of John Muir.

20 & 21 April
Lauderdale Park, 10am - 4pm
Wild About East Lothian
Visit this Countryside Ranger Service event and go Wild About East Lothian – through rockpooling, storytelling, bat hunts, micro world, art and many other free environmental activities and journeys for all the family.
We will be waiting to guide you on many different themed journeys around the local area to explore the various habitats and discover the wildlife there. Advanced booking is advisable with limited places available on the day. All events are free. Some of the events on offer include:
Rockpooling: Rocks are tough, but rockpool animals are tougher still! Come along to discover and record the fascinating marine life that frequent our rocky shores, and learn about the amazing ways they manage to survive and thrive. Wellies advisable.
Seabirds: The Firth of Forth is a summer home to over half a million seabirds. Join us as we head off in search of diving gannets, crying kittiwakes and maybe even pretty puffins on this leisurely 90-minute walk along the coast.
Tracks and trails:Join us on a quest to uncover which animal placed that print or plopped that poo. Learn about feather and fur identification and hone your skills as a nature detective!
There will also be ongoing drop-in environmental activities at the hub such as:
Fungi Fun
Drop in to find out how the mushroom got its spots, make some pictures with fungi paint and try a mushroom supermarket challenge.
Willow weaving workshop Discover the art of natural weaving – no experience necessary! Come and have a go at making a willow and rush fish to take home.
Click here for full programme details.

21 - 28 April
Dunbar Harbour
Emma Herman-Smith: Beach Hut Artist Residency
Emma Herman-Smith will take up a week long Beach Hut artist residency on Dunbar 's Victoria Harbour. Emma, originally from Helensburgh, will be continuing her research into the nature of the John Muir Way and discussing her plans for her walk across Scotland in 2014. Free. Presented by North Light Arts, an artist-led organisation delivering innovative public arts projects and educational initiatives in and around Dunbar. Please visit North Light Arts northlightarts.org,uk or the Facebook page for more information.

Sunday 20 April
Dunbar Community Woodland Group
Celebrating the Launch of the John Muir Way
10am till 6pm in Lochend Woods - The Gathering Area, (by the John Muir Stone, corner of Kellie and Middlemass Roads)
10am - Bird I.D. Walk - with David bates, DCWG convenor,
11am - Easter Egg Hunt - for the wee ones, with DCWG,
12 - 5pm - Log Drums - a workshop with Andy Penicuik
'Pay As U Eat' - from 12.30 - lunch buffet, from 4.30 Barbecue
2.30pm - 'Mad About Muir' - a promenade play in the woods, by Quids In Theatre
3.30pm - Sequoia planting - linking Dunbar's Wood with John Muir's California
4.30pm - Woodland Barbecue - Venison steaks and burgers, Wild garlic and nettle soup, goodies from the clay oven.
5.30pm - Stories around the camp fire.

21 April
John Muir Birthplace Trust & West Barnes Inn, Belhaven Bay
Dunbar Writers
Dunbar Writers’ are preparing a dramatic presentation to celebrate John Muir as an ecologist and also an inspiring writer.Readings concerning John Muir, as he relates to Dunbar but also covering wider issues will be connected by a narrator. The first reading will take place at John Muir’s Birthplace, then open air readings and a reading at the West Barnes Inn at Belhaven Bay. Visit Dunbar Writers or Discover Dunbar for further information.

21 April
Dunbar Harbour, 2pm
Dragon Boat Ceremony
In recognition of the inspiration that comes from connecting to the environment, artist Emma Herman-Smith will bring the Port Edgar Dragons to Dunbar during the John Muir Festival meeting with the local skiff rowing teams. Free. Presented by North Light Arts, an artist-led organisation delivering innovative public arts projects and educational initiatives in and around Dunbar. Please visit North Light Arts website or Facebook page for more information.

21 April
John Muir Birthplace Trust
Wandering West
A soundscape project, by artist LesleyMay Miller and writer Elspeth Brown. Celebrating the ethos of John Muir, it explores the innovative fiction of John Muir conversing with two other great Scots, James Clerk Maxwell and Patrick Geddes. Starting point is the John Muir Birthplace Trust. Free, no booking necessary. All ages welcome. For further information please visit LesleyMay's website or [Elspeth Brown's website] (http://www.elspeth-brown.co.uk).

21 April - 26 April
Glebe Park, 12.30pm and Various Locations
Songline
Soulwind Songline is a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast. The Songline is starting in the Glebe Park in
Dunbar at 12.30pm to send off the walkers, cyclists and runners.

21 April
Fashion School, Old Library, Belhaven Road 10am - 4pm
Reflections Of Nature
A wonderful collaboration of work by home-grown international fashion designer Jacqui Burke. Her Autumn/Winter 2014 collection is inspired by Karele`s beautiful horses, East Lothian's rugged coastline, captured by professional local photographer Jon Savage. Please see the Fashion School for further information.

21 April
Dunbar to Helensburgh
Ramblers Scotland Relay
Ramblers Scotland groups will be staging a relay along the route. Starting in Dunbar on the 21 April, they'll be leading walks along a section of the trail each day until reaching Helensburgh on 26 April. Different groups will be leading each day, and it's a great opportunity to try out a Ramblers walk. To find out about the walks available please see the Ramblers website, Facebook page or Twitter.
All walks will be free and organised on a turn up and walk basis. Participants can be of any age, but if under 18 must be accompanied by parents or guardians and capable of completing the walk distance in the time indicated.

21 April
Dunbar, Outside Leisure Pool. All day.
Cycling: The John Muir Way
In celebration of John Muir, Belhaven Bikes of Dunbar are offering free cycle hire to visitors attending the John Muir Festival Opening Ceremony, 21 April 2014. Free bike safety checks will be available too! Book your bike in advance by emailing info@belhavenbikes.co.uk or calling 01368 860300 ; refundable deposits apply. See Belhaven Bikes for more information

21 April
Dunbar Opening Ceremony, 10.30 - 2.30pm
John Muir Trust
Join in with some fun, free missions – suitable for everyone who dares to explore the world with Muir’s spirit of adventure and curiosity. These activities will be taking place in Dunbar, North Berwick, Helensburgh and Balloch during the Festival. See website, Facebook or Twitter for more information.

21 April
Dunbar primary school children have been working on a tapestry for the opening of the John Muir Way and it will be on display on the day of the official opening of the new pathway.

Dunbar Primary school's John Muir tapestry
On display at Our Lady of the Waves Church Hall
10am - 3pm, 21 April. Admission free

22 April
Dunbar Golf Club, East Links, Dunbar EH42 1LL;
Homecoming Scotland 2014: John Muir Golf Challenge
Entries are encouraged from individual players as well as teams of 4 for this Texas Scramble. Individual entrants will be entered into teams. In addition to the links golf all players will receive a commemorative Glencairn whisky glass, tea / coffee and a hot roll before play. The cost is £35 per player. Clubs are available for hire. Prizes for top teams and individual holes.
Dunbar is the birthplace of John Muir (21st April 1838) widely recognised as the founder of America's National Parks, pioneer of conservation and founder of the Sierra Club.

'Meet John Muir' - Saturday 26th April 1-3pm
At the close of national celebrations of the life and times of this famous conservationist. Join us round the campfire at Templeton Woods Visitors Centre to hear his story.

Further information

21 April
Community Hall, High Street, 2 pm
Nature Walk
A led nature-walk (with wildlife spotting and plant identification) lasting about 1 hour, along part of the John Muir Way and past historic features such as Preston Mill, Phantassie Doocot and House, and the John Rennie Memorial. The walk will be one hour in duration and it will go along part of the John Muir Way, across the river Tyne (bridge) and past open fields and woods back to Community Hall where refreshments and toilet facilities will be available. The event is free and non-ticketed. Age range; adults and children (80 years down to 1month). There are steps but these can be by-passed, except for the bridge access. Baby buggies can be brought. Not suitable for wheelchairs due to steps and some of the surfaces involved. For more information see the website or the Dunpender Community Council Twitter

21 April
Community Hall, High Street, 2 - 5 pm
Refreshment Pit Stop
Dunpender Community Council offers hospitality in the form of tea, coffee and bacon rolls for weary walkers on the open day of the John Muir Way on April 21st. Pop into our Community Hall any time between 2-5 pm and enjoy a welcome cup of tea. Stroll around our picturesque village before undertaking the next section of the walk. East Linton is the first village along the John Muir Way and is attractively situated beside the River Tyne. The village has shops, pubs and toilet facilities, and historic Preston Mill will be open for those who wish to visit. Please visit Dunpender Community Council's website for more information.

17 April
The Filmhouse 6pm
Baraka
Ron Fricke / USA 1992 / 1h37m / PG
Screening of 1992 documentary 'Baraka,' as part of John Muir Film Festival.
From the ancient Sufi word 'baraka' (which translated means blessing, breath, or the essence of life), the director of photography, co-editor and co-writer for Koyaanisqatsi, takes on directorial and cinematographer duties in this breathtaking New Age tone poem. The evoked message suggests that over the course of evolution, humans have lost touch with the significance of nature in their lives and, as a result, have lost touch with their sense of spirituality in the modern world.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6.50. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

17 April
Water of Leith Centre, 7pm
Natures Peace - the Spirit of John Muir
Author Peter Wright invites audiences to imagine they are journeying along the wilder spine of Scotland. His description and full-colour illustrations will inspire. For all those who love wild places this richly colourful and evocative journey is an inspirational delight. To book a place please email peter.wright@ribbonofwilness.co.uk, an entry fee of £2 is payable at the event. For further information please visit Wright's website, Twitter or Facebook page

21 April
The Filmhouse, 5.45pm
Into The Wild
Sean Penn / USA 2007 / 2h28m / 15
Writer/director Sean Penn's powerful and moving adaptation of Jon Krakauer's non-fiction account of the wanderings of Chris McCandless, a young man who leaves behind his friends, family and possessions in search of a greater spiritual knowledge and communion with nature.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6.50. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

22 April
The Meadows, by the Pavillion 6.30pm
Songline
Soulwind Songline is a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast. The Songline is starting in the Glebe Park in
Dunbar at 12.30pm to send off the walkers, cyclists and runners along the Way, ending in Helensburgh on the 26th.

22 & 23 April, 8pm
Valvona & Crolla Caffe Bar, 19 Elm Row
*John Muir: Rhapsody In Green
(featuring ‘Stickeen’ – the greatest dog story ever told)
Written and performed by Mike Maran. Directed by Patrick Sandford.
John Muir, Scottish adventurer and father of the American national parks,
explores the forests and glaciers of the Pacific Northwest, saves the life of his
friend, Sam Young, on a mountain top, rescues the plucky wee terrier,
Stickeen, from a glacier crevasse – daredevil feats matched by inspirational
stories round the campfire that even the wolves gather to hear. Now Sam
Young shares these wilderness stories with you – and Stickeen keeps him
right. That dog knows a thing or two, I can tell you!
Tickets £10/£8. Call 0131 556 6066, visit valvonacrolla.co.uk or email office@valvonacrolla.co.uk to purchase tickets.

21 April
The Filmhouse, 5.45pm
Grizzly Man
Werner Herzog / USA 2005 / 1h44m / 15
Filmmaker Werner Herzog, perennially fascinated by obsession, here takes on the strange case of Timothy Treadwell, who spent 13 summers in Alaska living among grizzly gears and chronicling their lives on video. The animals he loved, however, were to be his downfall.
Screening as part of John Muir Film Festival. Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6.50. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, their Facebook page or Twitter.

27 April
Meet at The Milk Barn, Glen Farm, FK1 3AA.
John Muir Way Treasure Trail
This family treasure hunt and geocache taster event will help participants discover and explore the woodlands and trails of South Falkirk, including the John Muir Way.As a taster event, this will be designed to be as inclusive as possible. People can take part on foot, or by bike, and will be teamed with experienced geo-cachers to ensure they gain the most enjoyment from the experience. Bring your own mobile GPS device. Free, no booking required. Bespoke Falkirk

25 April
Hopkirk Building, Glasgow Botanical Gardens, 6.30pm
Nature's Peace - the Spirit of John Muir
Author Peter Wright invites audiences to imagine they are journeying along the wilder spine of Scotland. His description and full-colour illustrations will inspire. For all those who love wild places this richly colourful and evocative journey is an inspirational delight. To book a place please email peter.wright@ribbonofwilness.co.uk, an entry fee of £2 is payable at the event. For further information please visit Wright's website, Twitter or Facebook

Friday 18 April–Monday 21 April
Prestongrange Museum (Prestonpans) & John Gray Centre (Haddington)
Eggs-cellent Eco Easter Hunt
£1 per trail sheet or mask
Everyone welcome (children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult)
Drop-in event, no booking required

The Easter bunny has visited our museums at night and left behind some eggs. Families will be challenged to complete a trail sheet about John Muir which will lead them to some Easter surprises! We’ll also have Easter mask-making so children can become a lamb, chick or bunny using recycled materials.

Prestongrange Museum sits on the John Muir Way, just outside Prestonpans. Families are encouraged to visit the museum, which includes a café and children’s area, on their route!

The John Gray Centre is in Haddington, just 5 miles away from the East Linton section of the Way, and welcomes visitors who want to find out more about the area John Muir came from. Both museums are free to visit and are open throughout the John Muir Festival. See www.eastlothianmuseums.org for opening times and further details of these and other local museums in East Lothian, including John Muir’s Birthplace.

18 April
7.30-9.30pm at the Tower, old St Columba Church, Helensburgh.
Singing workshops with Soulwind Songline for a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast.

24 April
Victoria Halls, Sinclair Street, 7.30pm
From Dunbar To Yosemite
Well known entertainer and conservation champion Jimmie Macgregor, pays homage to John Muir, wilderness guardian and father of the national parks movement. Tickets £10 in advance, £12 on the door. Tickets available from Victoria Halls, or phone 01436 673275. Small fee for credit card sales.
Website

25 April
Lomond School, 7.30 pm
Into The Wild
Sean Penn / USA 2007 / 2h28m / 15
Writer/director Sean Penn's powerful and moving adaptation of Jon Krakauer's non-fiction account of the wanderings of Chris McCandless, a young man who leaves behind his friends, family and possessions in search of a greater spiritual knowledge and communion with nature. Tickets from Lomond School reception or by calling 01436 672476 or see Lomond School website. This film screening is part of Wild Places - John Muir Film Festival.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

26 April
St. Columba's Church, 12:00 (duration 50 minutes)
John Muir Songcycle
Helensburgh musicians and children will perform a new cycle of songs to texts by John Muir. Clarsachs, drumkit, flutes, a lone piper and projected photos of the John Muir Way will add Scottish flavour. Tickets on the door: Adults £10/£6, Children £2. Go to Visit Helensburgh's website or The Tower email louise.burnet@virgin.net for further information.

26 April
Hermitage Park, Sinclair Street, 2pm
History and Archaeology Walk
Local archaeologist Fiona Baker will be leading her popular history and archaeology walk in Hermitage Park for the Friends of Hermitage Park. Free, all ages welcome. Meet at the Park Gates on Sinclair Street.

26 April
Hermitage Park, Sinclair Street, 3.30pm
John Muir meets Tom Weir on Goukhill overlooking Loch Lomond
A walk to Goukhill, a truly dramatic location on the John Muir Way, overlooking Loch Lomond. Walkers start from Hermitage Park OR Kiltwalk Marquee, Loch Lomond Shores. Participants are asked to wear John Muir cowboy hats and big beards or Tom Weir toorie bunnets.
Registration at 3.30pm and the Walk commences 4pm. Free, with a suggested donation of £5. Book your Tom Weir bobble hat or John Muir hat and beard by emailing john@balmillig.co.uk. See Facebook for details.

26 April
1pm Hill House and 2.30pm Hermitage Park, Helensburgh.
Soulwind Songline is a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast.

17 April
Townhead Bridge, opposite St. Mary's Church. 6.30pm
A Beacon Of Light For John Muir
Celebrate the work and legacy of conservator and environmentalist John Muir by taking some time to enjoy an evening walk. This walk - illuminated by beautiful hand-made lanterns produced by families at workshops throughout the week – will finish at Peel Park and take in one of the best views in East Dunbartonshire; the Campsies. At the end of the procession there will be a viewing of art work made especially for the John Muir Festival by our talented smART participants.
Wear comfy shoes and a cosy jacket! Free, no booking required.

17 April
William Patrick Library, 11am - 12.15pm
John Muir Lantern-Making Workshop
This special lantern-making workshop is great fun for the whole family! Create your very own illuminated art using paper, lots of imagination and other messy stuff. Then join us on Thursday evening for our John Muir lantern procession, show off your lovely lanterns in the evening light and take a nice walk to Peel Park. Ages 4+, children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Free, but booking is essential. Please call 0141 777 3143 (Mon-Fri 10am-12pm 2pm-4pm) or email edlct.bookings@eastdunbarton.gov.uk to reserve your place.

22 April - 16 May
William Patrick Library
John Muir smART Exhibition
If you missed our special lantern procession, come along to the William
Patrick Library for a look at some of the lanterns produced by families
during our Easter Programme, and the large scale art work made especially
for the John Muir Festival by our smART young artists. Presented by East Dunbartonshire Council. Free. All ages welcome. Visit EDLC's website for more information.

26 and 27 April

East Dunbartonshire's Food & Drink Festival ‘Seasoned to Taste’ has all the ingredients to be the best yet - with a scintillating menu with something for all ages and palates.

This year's festival will celebrate the strong Scots-Italian links through food, whilst highlighting the historical, heritage and cultural connections that exist between both countries dating back to Roman times.

The Strathkelvin Railway Path (which makes up part of the John Muir Trail) will lead you into the festival's highlight in Kirkintilloch Town Centre on 26 and 27 April and includes street food, live music, entertainment, a mini-beer festival, smoothie-making and much more.

5 April
10.30am-12.30pm, Linlithgow Primary School
Workshop with Soulwind Songline for a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast.

23 April Linlithgow Palace 2.30pm
Performance with Soulwind Songline as part of a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast.

24 April
Linlithgow Peel, 9.30m
Nature and craft activities in the great outdoors. West Lothian Council, Rural Connect and Historic Scotland are working in partnership to celebrate the John Muir Festival in Linlithgow with a free, family friendly event celebrating John Muir’s legacy. All ages welcome, particularly family groups and primary school children. For more information, please visit West Lothian Council's website or their Facebook page

Youth Vision * invites you to join in a day of bushcraft and cooking in the outdoors to celebrate the life of John Muir
Where: Fernyness Wood, Longniddry, East Lothian
How to get there: Access through the Gosford Estate West Lodge Entrance on Lyars Road, Longniddry and bear left
When: 11am - 3pm Saturday 26 April
Come and sample freshly cooked pancakes as well as other camp fire cooked delights and hot and cold refreshments.
Learn some bushcraft skills for keeping yourself comfortable in the woods.
Event suitable for all ages
Free event, no need to book

• Youth Vision is a Balerno based charity, which provides opportunities for young people to make the transition to adulthood using programmes rooted in outdoor learning www.youthvisionscotland.org.uk
  Facebook: Youth Vision (Edinburgh)
  For more info contact Graham Hardie on 07872 623381 or Sara Beauregard on 07999 948491

15 April
Lillie Art Gallery, Station Road, 11am
John Muir Lantern Making Workshop
EDLC’s Easter holiday programme celebrates pioneer of conservation John Muir and all things environmental! Join us for free lantern making sessions, then show off your creations at our John Muir Lantern Procession in Kirkintilloch on the 17th. Ages 4+, children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. Free, book your place at edlct.bookings@eastdunbarton.gov.uk. Visit EDLC's website for further information.

17 - 26 April
The Pavilion at Musselburgh Racecourse
Exhibition of Photographs- The Story of the Development of Musselburgh Links 1964 - Present Day
Friends of Musselburgh Links will organize an exhibition of photographs recounting the story of the development of the reclaimed land at Musselburgh Links (part of the John Muir Way) from 1964 until the present day (ongoing) to be held in the Pavilion at Musselburgh Racecourse from 17th -26th April. This will be set up by members of the Friends group. Please see website for details.

17 April
The Brunton, 7pm
John Muir - The Last Explorers
Tim Neil / UK 2011 /60m Screening of 2012 BBC Documentary 'John Muir - The Last Explorers,' as part of John Muir Film Festival. Neil Oliver follows in the footsteps of 19th century adventurer John Muir. Set in the spectacular Yosemite Valley in California, this is the story of the father of the modern conservation movement and one of the founders of America's National Park movement.
Pre screening talk with Tom Heap: To launch the Festival Tom will talk about the importance of conservation, linking conservation work today and John Muir’s work/legacy. Tom Heap is a freelance broadcast journalist, well known for his investigative reporting on BBCs Countryfile.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

19 April
Dunbar Film Society, West Barns Village Hall, 3.15pm
Grizzly Man
Werner Herzog / USA 2005 / 1h44m / 15
Filmmaker Werner Herzog, perennially fascinated by obsession, here takes on the strange case of Timothy Treadwell, who spent 13 summers in Alaska living among grizzly gears and chronicling their lives on video. The animals he loved, however, were to be his downfall. Screening as part of Wild Places: John Muir Film Festival.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £4 (£10 family) pay on door only. Please see www.dunbarfilm.org.uk website for information on the screening. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter

22 April
The Brunton, 7.30pm
The Edge Of The World
Michael Powell / UK 1937 / 1h12m / U
Screening of Michael Powell's 1937 film 'The Edge of The World' as part of John Muir Film Festival. The film that first made Michael Powell's reputation is a love story set on the remote island of Foula. Filmed on rocks and dizzying cliffs, it's a landscape film par excellence – a rhapsodic vision of lives lived at the farthest extremes of nature and human society.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

23 April
The Brunton, 7.30pm
Baraka
Ron Fricke / USA 1992 / 1h37m / No dialogue / PG
Screening of 1992 documentary 'Baraka' as part of John Muir Film Festival.Taking the ancient Sufi word 'baraka' (which translates as blessing, breath, or the essence of life), the director of photography, co-editor and co-writer for Koyaanisqatsi takes on directorial and cinematographer duties in this breathtaking New Age tone poem that captures images from 24 countries that transcend geographical and language barriers.
Pre screening talk with Scott Donaldson from Creative Scotland: Scott will discuss the link between the Arts and environmental issues, including wilderness photos from when John Muir was alive, through to present day wilderness photography and cinematography.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

24 April
The Brunton, 7.30pm
Grizzly Man
Werner Herzog / USA 2005 / 1h44m / 15
Filmmaker Werner Herzog, perennially fascinated by obsession, here takes on the strange case of Timothy Treadwell, who spent 13 summers in Alaska living among grizzly gears and chronicling their lives on video. The animals he loved, however, were to be his downfall. Screening as part of Wild Places: John Muir Film Festival.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

24 April
The Brunton, 10.30am
John Muir - The Schools Film Premiere
Join the stars of tomorrow on the red carpet for this unique film premiere. Ticket price includes refreshments at the film’s after party. A short animated film exploring the life of John Muir in East Lothian. Created by pupils at Law, Musselburgh Burgh and Dunbar Primary Schools with local animation company D fie foe Productions. Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £5. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

25 April
The Brunton, 7pm
Into The Wild
Sean Penn / USA 2007 / 2h28m / 15 . Writer/director Sean Penn's powerful and moving adaptation of Jon Krakauer's non-fiction account of the wanderings of Chris McCandless, a young man who leaves behind his friends, family and possessions in search of a greater spiritual knowledge and communion with nature.
Pre screening talk (6.30pm) with Ron Butlin. With readings from Muir’s journals, diaries and letters to old friends he will provide a fascinating insight into Muir. With an international reputation as a prize-winning novelist, Ron Butlin is also the Edinburgh Makar (poet laureate). In 2009 he was made the first ever Honorary Writing fellow (together with Ian Rankin) at Edinburgh University. Much of his poetry, as well as many of his novels and short stories have been broadcast and translated into over ten languages. In addition to his plays for BBC radio and theatre (most recently Sweet Dreams for Oran Mor in Glasgow), he has written five operas, two of them for Scottish Opera. Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

26 April
The Brunton, 2pm
Over The Hedge (U)
Tim Johnson & Karey Kirkpatrick / USA 2006 / 1h23m
Voices: Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell,
Wanda Sykes, William Shatner, Nick Nolte. Animated.
When greedy raccoon RJ gets caught stealing the snack stash of a ferocious bear, he’s given a week to replace it all or become part of the food chain
himself. With time running out, the scheming RJ fools a makeshift family of woodland creatures into helping him to steal food from the new and terrifying
world of suburbia, which has recently encroached on their once-natural habitat.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7 (£6). For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

26 April
The Brunton, 7pm
Chasing Ice
Jeff Orlowski / USA 2012 / 1h20m / 12A
National Geographic photographer James Balog set out to capture incontrovertible evidence of climate warming’s impact via an ambitious, multi-continent project visually documenting the increased speed of glacial melting over a matter of years. A profoundly cinematic experience featuring breathtaking time-lapse footage.
Pre Screening talk with Andy Kirkpatrick: Top British mountaineer and standup comedian will talk about his expeditions. Big-wall climber and winter expedition specialist, Andy has soloed the most difficult routes in the world. He is a published writer and film-maker with a tremendous ability to captivate any audience with his unique brand of motivational story-telling. Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £7/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

21 April
Fisherrow Beach 6.30pm
Soulwind Songline is a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast.

17 - 21 April
Scottish Seabird Centre, 2 - 3pm daily
Join Professor Egghead and follow in the footsteps of conservationist John Muir in a brand new interactive, family-friendly science show to discover what it takes to survive in the wild. Are you fit enough to complete the adventure? See Facebook or Twitter for further information. Event is included within admission to the Discovery Centre; Adult £8.95; Child £4.95; Family £25 (2 adults and 2 children). Fully accessible.

19 April
East beach (outside Scottish Seabird Centre), 11am - 1pm
Community Beach Clean
In the spirit of John Muir, help keep North Berwick beaches wild and enjoyable for all! Join the Scottish Seabird Centre, East Lothian Countryside Ranger Service and North Berwick in Bloom for a fun and rewarding community beach clean. All ages welcome, with litter pickers, bags and gloves all provided. Clothing and sturdy footwear for all weathers recommended! A partnership project between the Scottish Seabird Centre, East Lothian Countryside Ranger Service and North Berwick in Bloom. All three organizations champion the enjoyment, education and conservation of East Lothian’s iconic landscapes and wildlife.

21 April
Beach at North Berwick, 7.30pm
Songline
Soulwind Songline is a community event running in parallel with the John Muir Festival. It will bring songs and communities together in song along The John Muir Way from coast to coast. There will be an event on the beach at North Berwick at 7.30pm. The Songline is starting in the John Muir Park in
Dunbar at 2pm to send off the walkers, cyclists and runners along the Way, ending in Helensburgh on the 26th. Please see listings for your town for more information.

26 April
North Berwick Law, 2pm
Walk Slow, Pedal Fast
Meeting at the Law car park, the event will consist of a slow, mindful walk led by artist Karen Gabbitas to a film installation where participants will be able to pedal a bike-powered projector in order to see a short film screening. The ground will be rocky in places and there will be some climbing involved, so strong footwear is highly recommended and clothing appropriate to weather conditions. Free outdoor event, bookable through the artist by emailing kgabbitas@btinternet.com or through Karen's website.

Friday 18 April–Monday 21 April
Prestongrange Museum (Prestonpans) & John Gray Centre (Haddington)
Eggs-cellent Eco Easter Hunt
£1 per trail sheet or mask
Everyone welcome (children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult)
Drop-in event, no booking required

The Easter bunny has visited our museums at night and left behind some eggs. Families will be challenged to complete a trail sheet about John Muir which will lead them to some Easter surprises! We’ll also have Easter mask-making so children can become a lamb, chick or bunny using recycled materials.

Prestongrange Museum sits on the John Muir Way, just outside Prestonpans. Families are encouraged to visit the museum, which includes a café and children’s area, on their route! The John Gray Centre is in Haddington, just 5 miles away from the East Linton section of the Way, and welcomes visitors who want to find out more about the area John Muir came from. Both museums are free to visit and are open throughout the John Muir Festival. See www.eastlothianmuseums.org for opening times and further details of these and other local museums in East Lothian, including John Muir’s Birthplace.

22 April
macrobert arts centre, University of Stirling, 7.30pm
The Edge of The World
Michael Powell / UK 1937 / 1h12m / U
Screening of Michael Powell's 1937 film 'The Edge of The World.' as part of the John Muir Film Festival. The film that first made Michael Powell's international reputation is a love story set on the remote island of Foula. Filmed on rocks and dizzying cliffs, it's a landscape film par excellence – a rhapsodic, at times almost anarchic vision of lives lived at the farthest extremes of nature and human society.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £6.50/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

24 April
macrobert arts centre, University of Stirling, 7.30pm
Chasing Ice
Jeff Orlowski / USA 2012 / 1h20m / 12A
Screening of documentary 'Chasing Ice' as part of the John Muir Film Festival. National Geographic photographer James Balog set out to capture incontrovertible evidence of climate warming’s impact via an ambitious, multi-continent project visually documenting the increased speed of glacial melting over a matter of years. A profoundly cinematic experience featuring breathtaking time-lapse footage.
Through a programme of films, talks and Q&A events focusing on themes of landscape and wild open spaces, the John Muir Film Festival celebrates Muir’s legacy of engagement with the natural world, and the global influence of one of Scotland’s most famous sons, founder of the modern conservation movement. Tickets £6.50/£6. For more information on the film festival visit The Brunton, Facebook or Twitter.

17 April - 1 May
John Muir Celebrations - Picture This Exhibition
Taynish National Nature Reserve, Tayvallich, Argyll

In 2013 the Argyll National Nature Reserve Rangers teamed up with acclaimed wildlife photographer Phillip Price of Loch Visions for a weekend of photography workshops. These workshops were in celebration of the first John Muir Birthday celebrations in Argyll.

Those participating in the workshops over the weekend were given an insight into the work of a wildlife photographer, how to get the best out of their camera, techniques in photography and exploration of the Natural Heritage of the area.

Now, to mark the second celebration of John Muir’s birthday, the pictures taken on that day will be displayed in the historical setting of Taynish Mill, a recently stabilized building in the majestic setting of Taynish National Nature Reserve now utilized as an open air exhibition space.

Open to the public 24/7 this special place allows the visitor to choose their own time to visit. Nestled below the great oakwoods of Taynish as they sweep down to the shores of Loch Sween, Taynish Mill is an excellent place to rest a while and take in the photography of the birthday guests from 2013.

Media are advised to contact Mags Russell should they wish to be joined by a member of the Reserve Team for background information on the Reserve and the exhibition. Mags.russell@snh.gov.uk Tel: 01546 603611 or mobile 07747 499 260. Free, all ages welcome, and open all hours.