This week's new events

Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival The Scarecrow in The Wizard Of Oz was a malign, dumb breed, whereas Worzel Gummidge and his variety of twist-off heads scarred a generation of young children. So, this celebration of straw-stuffed bipeds may be a good place to visit with your therapist, or perhaps your children. Everyone from politicians to pop groups and royals to stars of screen represented in straw. Wander freely round the village and seek them out, but, for the love of God, don't look into their eyes. Kettlewell, North Yorkshire, to 19 Aug Iain Aitch Time Travellers Go … Across the UK If your kids think you're old hat, treat them to some true archaism with one of English Heritage's hands-on history workshops. They can try on armour and relive medieval battles at Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire (Knights And Princesses Day), ponder ancient artefacts while channelling Julius Caesar at Birdoswald Fort near Hadrian's Wall (Roman Centurions Day) or dig for victory at Wrest Park, Luton (Archaeology Day). If the little terrors still won't sit still, send them to an air-raid drill and DIY gasmask-box session at Audley End, Essex (WWII Day) or a bloodthirsty rendition of Bram Stoker's classic at eerie Whitby Abbey (Dracula Day). Various locations, to 27 Aug Colette Bernhardt Edinburgh Book Festival Not content with snaffling the vast majority of comic and theatrical talent for the bulk of August, Edinburgh – as it has done annually since 1997 – now moves to the lit scene, this year attracting over 800 writers. There's readings, debates and writing clinics, plus for 2012 the festival has commissioned new writing on the theme of "Elsewhere" from 50 attending authors including Frank Cottrell Boyce, Ali Smith, Roddy Doyle and children's laureate Julia Donaldson. All are downloadable from the website. Various venues, to 27 Aug Stuart Goodwin Out & about Frighten Brighton , Sat Vintage horror from the 1930s to the 70s on the south coast, plus comics and merchandise on offer. Komedia See No Evil , Bristol, Mon to 19 Aug A Bristol thoroughfare is given over to top street artists at this week-long celebration, culminating in a New York-style block party next weekend. Nelson Street Robin Hood Festival , Edwinstowe, Mon to 19 Aug The green-clad outlaw is brought to life in jousting, stunt-fighting, archery sessions and much more. Sherwood Forest Scoot Fest , Stoneleigh, Fri to 19 Aug Not a mod-fest, but a gathering of teens and their CURRENTLY BLOODY EVERYWHERE metal push-and-swingalong charges. Chase And Status play live. Stoneleigh Showground, nr Coventry Pride , Manchester, Fri to 27 Aug Massive gay, lesbian and LGBT celebration kicks off with fringe events taking in music, theatre and more. Various venues