A unique celebration of traditional storytelling, featuring some of Scotland's most gifted writers, is being organised by the University of Aberdeen's Elphinstone Institute from Saturday 1 May until Sunday 2 May.
The Traditional Storytelling Weekend is the third event of its kind and will be held at Woodend Barn, Banchory.
Organised in partnership with Woodend Arts Association, the festival has established itself as one of the most popular events on the North East events calendar.
Dr Ian Russell, Director of the Elphinstone Institute, said, "This is a wonderful opportunity to experience at first hand the narrative traditions of Scottish Travellers, and to find out more about stories from two of our most remote island communities, Lewis and Shetland."
Workshops will feature the much-loved writer and performer Sheena Blackhall whose talent and enthusiasm sees her work with schoolchildren throughout the region.
Well-respected storyteller, singer and piper Stanley Robertson also features in the line-up with his colourful repertoire of ballads and stories, while writer and poet Ian Stephen, from Stornoway, will regale audiences with his tales of the sea.
Islander Lawrence Tulloch will tell of his upbringing on a croft in Shetland and his life as a jack of all trades including lighthouse keeper, postman and tourist guide.
Best-selling author Jess Smith will recite traditional tales around the campfire, while Susie Minto brings the Doric tongue to her collection of stories. They will be joined by a host of other storytellers from across the local area.
The study of cultural traditions of the North and North East of Scotland is at the core of the Elphinstone Institution and events celebrating the customs and traditions of North East life are a key part of its work.
This year's festival has something for everyone and is ideal for those who like to hear and tell stories, and enjoy a ceilidh atmosphere, which includes songs and music.
Informal and friendly, it will be just the place to encourage less experienced storytellers as well as welcoming old hands.
The festival, supported by the Scottish Storytelling Centre and the Grampian Association of Storytellers, is directed by Dr Ian Russell and bookings can be taken by contacting the Woodend Barn on: (01330) 825431 or by calling the University's Elphinstone Institute on: (01224) 272996.