The National Trust for Scotland's award-winning Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway is gearing up for a busy festive season which is set to showcase the skills of the local community.

The activities begin with a 'Winterfest' at Burns Cottage on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 December including an Ayrshire Makers Christmas Market with a fabulous range of gifts from skilled local craftspeople. There will be fun festive children's activities and an extra festive Burns Cottage, Santa will be in attendance too! Standard admission charges apply.

The talents of more locals will take centre stage as local schools perform a series of carol concerts. Between 11 and 19 December, there will be performances from Kincaidston. Alloway, Holmston, Belmont, Forehill, Doonfoot and Heathfield Primaries at the museum. For the full programme and performance times, visit www.nts.org.uk/christmas.

Local produce is also celebrated on the fabulous festive lunch menus served between 13 and 23 December. Ayrshire turkey and bacon are just some of the local delicacies on offer. Lunch costs �15.95 for two courses and �18.95 for three. Book by calling 0844 493 2601.

Then on 15 December at 2pm, Ayrshire musician Jay Sinclair takes to the stage with his classical guitar. This is a festive-themed performance from the Ayrshire -up-and-comer.

Property Manager Caroline Glenn said: "Robert Burns was inspired by Ayrshire, its landscape and people so when putting together our programme of festive events, we also wanted to focus on Ayrshire and what is has to offer. Our December programme celebrates the best of Ayrshire music, crafts and food and we hope to welcome many visitors from Ayrshire and beyond over the next few weeks." Along with the Auld Kirk and Brig o' Doon, the cottage where Burns was born has been combined with the Burns Monument and the new award-winning museum building to form the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. Generously supported by the Scottish Government and the Heritage Lottery Fund, the museum commemorates the life and works of Robert Burns.

The museum is open daily.