Community run events and festivals can be all shapes and sizes - and by attending you'll experience real passion and meet local people.

Many cultural events and festivals are designed to help celebrate and further local interest and to generate funds to go back into community run activities.

Seek out the local gala day, agricultural show or highland gathering and simply soak up the atmosphere – these are often run to raise money for local charities and your entry ticket alone is a welcome contribution.

But don’t stop at that as you’ll find lots of stalls where you can find out about local initiatives, buy local crafts and produce and take part in quirky competitions – which you may well win! Use festival activity to immerse yourself in the local area.

If you're planning your own event or celebration, find out what spaces the community can offer.