Leonardo da Vinci: A Life in Drawing

This year is the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s death – to mark the occasion the Royal Collection Trust has collaborated with 12 museums and galleries to host simultaneous exhibitions of his drawings across Britain. The display features 12 drawings reflecting the full range of Leonardo’s practice including anatomy, botany, engineering, and cartography. There will also be a series of talks, tours and art workshops alongside the exhibition. December 16-22. Price included in admission The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX

It’s a Wonderful Life

Based on Frank Capra’s iconic film, the Floating Brick Theatre bring the cinematic story to life in a new adaptation from Tamas Fazakas. The show, like the film, follows the story of George Bailey who has always dreamed of escaping his small hometown of Bedford Falls and travelling the world. The show has one very important message: No man is a failure who has friends. Whether watching with friends or family, it’s a heart-warming story for all. December 16-22. Tickets from £10. Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR

Mother Goose

The panto story of Mother Goose takes the stage at the Byre, in a combination of Once Upon a Time and Shrek. It’s a cracking Christmas adventure for the whole family. The story follows Mother Goose as she fights to save Fantasia, faced with the temptations of eternal youth and beauty. You’ll have to see it to find out what she’ll do. December 18 and 19 at 7pm. Tickets from £19.50. Byre Theatre, Abbey Street, St Andrews, KY16 9LA

Grotto experience at Santa and the Snow

There’s a whole host of activities on offer at the Santa and the Snow grotto extravaganza. Shoppers can hop on the Santa Express Train taking them directly to the North Pole where they can make their own tree decoration in Santa’s workshop. Head through to Mrs Claus’ Kitchen to indulge in hot chocolate and homemade cookies. Then, experience a white Christmas by sledging in the snow play area before visiting Santa in his story room. December 16-22. Tickets from £9.95. Snow Factor, SOAR, INTU Braehead, King’s Inch Road, Glasgow, G51 4BN

RSNO Christmas Concert: The Snowman

A special screening of Christmas classic The Snowman is accompanied by the RSNO as a live orchestra, playing the songs from the film alongside a screening of the film. Teaming up with presenter Jamie MacDougall, the RSNO is hosting a Christmas event to really put you in the festive spirit. There will be a host of seasonal favourites, old and new carols and the chance to sing along. December 19 at 7.30pm. Tickets from £15. Music Hall, Union Street, Aberdeen, AB10 1QS

One Night of Queen

In 2002, Gary Mullen formed his band The Works to pay tribute to rock legends Queen and since then, the band have performed throughout the UK, US, Europe, South Africa and New Zealand to sell-out audiences as well as playing the prestigious BBC Proms in the Park twice to a crowd of 40,000 people. This December, join Gary and The Works in a spectacular live concert that recreates the look, sound and showmanship of one of the greatest rock bands of all time.December 20 from 7pm. Tickets from £22.50. Troon Concert Hall, South Beach, Troon, Ayrshire, KA10 GEG

BAaD Christmas Cinema Club

Join the BAaD this December for some special pop-up film screenings as the heated courtyard is converted into a cinema; featuring a mezzanine bar serving popcorn, craft beers, cocktails and pizza from pop up Magnificent 7. There’s a variety of movies throughout the week and there’s a drink and mince pie included in the ticket price. December 17-23. Tickets are £8. Barras Art and Design, 54 Calton Entry, Glasgow, G40 2SB

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Christmas by Candlelight

Distinguished soloists Fenella Humphreys and Warren Mailley-Smith accompanied by the Picadilly Sinfonietta will be taking over Glasgow Cathedral. The Picadilly Sinfonietta is one of the UK’s most exciting young ensembles who perform a selection of well-loved classics. Violinist Fenella Humphreys will be showcasing exceptional violin skills while award-winning concert pianist Warren Mailley-Smith will perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major. Warren has played for the Royal Family on many occasions and he recently became the first pianist to perform Chopin’s complete works from memory. Take a break from all the carols and experience some classical music this Christmas. December 21 from 7.30pm-9.30pm. Tickets from £16.76. Glasgow Cathedral, Castle Street, Glasgow, G4 0QZ

Conscience Matters

The Conscience matters exhibition at the National War Museum explores the story of conscientious objectors through objects such as paintings, poems, letters, music and speeches. During the Second World War more than 60,000 men and women chose not to fight for political, religious or moral reasons. This exhibition examines the application process and the reasons people had for opposing conscription as well as the consequences this had on their lives. December 16-22. Free. Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF

Elfingrove

From the team behind GlasGLOW, Elfingrove is a night time tour of Glasgow’s favourite museum. Enter through the doors into the Grand Hall and experience the museum as its inhabitants come to life. Over the hour-long experience, an ancient secret is finally revealed and ends in a spectacular finale. Afterwards, there's gourmet street food – with festive surprises, singing and dancing. December 9-15 from 5.30pm-10.30pm. Tickets from £8. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Argyle Street, Glasgow West End, G3 8AG