1SCOTTISH Asians For Independence (SAFI) are having a celebratory party on Friday (which happens to be my birthday. Perhaps that’s what they’re really celebrating ... ) It’s at the River Palace, 41 Tradeston St, Glasgow. There will be food and dancing and merriment. The First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon will be there, ably supported by the excellent Humza Yousaf MSP. This is always an absolutely brilliant event. £25 a head. All the details at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/scots-asians-for-independence-celebrate-the-snp-success-in-recent-elections-tickets-93836941819

2I CAN’T believe it’s been a year, but an annual favourite returns this week – it’s Strathbungo Window Wanderland. This is a riot of colour, an explosion of art and culture and fairy lights galore. Stick the date in your diary and simply wander around with a coffee or a hot chocolate from one of the food stalls. It’s a free event and lots of fun. Saturday, Strathbungo, Glasgow

6-9pm.

3PAISLEY has it all going on this week! Rocknrolla’s on Wellmeadow Street is hosting an evening with Alan McGee (pictured right) on Friday. The outspoken, maverick genius behind the mighty Creation Records has worked with some of the most significant bands of the last 30 years including Oasis, Primal Scream, My Bloody Valentine, The Jesus and Mary Chain and The Libertines to name a few. The night will consist of an intimate Q&A session and storytelling before McGee gets behind the decks to spin some of his favourite tunes. General admission – £15, VIP – £30. All the details at www.facebook.com/events/1352314848275236/

4AHOY, ahoy, Dunfermline doffs its cap to punk. This week, The Skids are playing PJ Molloys on Canmore Street, Dunfermline. Time to head down Into

The Valley for only £17. Thursday at 7pm, boom.

5THIS week me and himself will be taking time away from battling this union with snakes to go listen to DURANanDURAN, the best tribute band in the country playing live in Perth on Saturday at the 44 Bar & Late lounge, 8 till late. Tikets are £9. Join us for a boogie and a bevvy and/or save a prayer for my head on Sunday Morning. All the details at the DURANanDURAN facebook page. www.facebook.com/DURANanDURAN

6DON’T let Storms Ciara, Dennis and Ellen let you settle in for a long winter’s nap ... instead hop down to the Settle Inn in Stirling and experience the Caribbean ... well a taste of the Caribbean, at least. Reggae music and jerk chicken, banging tunes, live band and a great night out. Chase away the grey with Three Little Birds. Friday, 9pm onwards. Free.

7TODAY it’s the annual Highland Pride Winter Walk in Inverness. Grannies and aunties, weans and dugs, pals and pooches all welcome. Bring your flags and fun for a day supporting the LGBT community. Meet at Eden Court theatre at 1pm, let’s bring a rainbow of fun into a grey wet weekend.