Our Guide to Christmas in Edinburgh 2024

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending the entire festive season here, Edinburgh offers a perfect blend of charm, tradition, and holiday magic. Here’s how to experience the best of Christmas in Scotland’s capital:

1. Explore Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets

No Christmas visit to Edinburgh is complete without strolling through the city’s famous festive markets. Held in East Princes Street Gardens, the Christmas Market is filled with stalls offering handmade crafts, gifts, and delicious seasonal food.

• European Market: Wander through stalls filled with artisan products, Christmas decorations, and unique gifts, perfect for holiday shopping.
• Food and Drink Stalls: Warm up with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate, and indulge in festive treats like German sausages, crepes, or roasted chestnuts.

2. Visit Edinburgh’s Christmas at the Dome

The Dome, one of Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks on George Street, is transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland during Christmas. The building’s exterior is adorned with giant Christmas trees and sparkling lights, and inside, it’s even more magical with elaborate decorations and festive dining experiences. It’s a must-visit spot for a festive drink, meal, or simply to admire the decorations.

3. Go Ice Skating at the George Street Ice Rink

Take a twirl on the ice at the George Street Ice Rink, a favourite Christmas activity for locals and visitors alike. Glide through the heart of the city under twinkling lights while enjoying the festive tunes. It’s a fun way to embrace the holiday spirit, whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner.

4. Climb the Edinburgh Christmas Tree Maze

For some family-friendly fun, explore the Christmas Tree Maze in East Princes Street Gardens. This festive maze is a fun way to wander through the twinkling lights and trees with kids, and there’s even a chance to meet Santa at the end! A great activity to capture the magic of Christmas through a child’s eyes.

5. See the Street of Light

Every year, George Street comes alive with the Street of Light display—a dazzling canopy of thousands of LED lights that move in time to festive music. This free attraction is one of Edinburgh’s most popular Christmas experiences, drawing crowds to watch the mesmerizing light and sound show.

6. Attend a Christmas Concert or Show

Edinburgh’s theatres and music venues put on a wide range of Christmas shows and concerts that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for classic carols, a ballet, or something more modern, there’s plenty to choose from.

• Christmas at the Usher Hall: This iconic concert venue hosts traditional carol concerts, orchestral performances, and festive sing-alongs.
• The King’s Theatre: A classic Christmas panto is a must for some lighthearted fun, with the King’s Theatre offering one of the best.
• The Royal Lyceum Theatre: Another excellent option for festive plays and seasonal performances, often showcasing well-loved Christmas tales.

7. Christmas at the Castle

Edinburgh Castle is magical at any time of the year, but during the Christmas season, it offers a special kind of charm. Visit the castle to explore its festive lights and displays, and learn about Christmas traditions from centuries past. It’s a great way to combine Edinburgh’s rich history with the holiday spirit.

8. Take a Festive Afternoon Tea

Escape the cold and indulge in a festive afternoon tea at one of Edinburgh’s elegant hotels or cafes. Enjoy seasonal treats such as mince pies, Christmas cakes, and spiced teas.

• The Balmoral: One of Edinburgh’s most luxurious hotels, The Balmoral offers a special Christmas-themed afternoon tea with a view of the city’s festive decorations.
• The Colonnades at the Signet Library: For a sophisticated setting, enjoy afternoon tea in this historic venue, complete with festive decorations and a selection of seasonal delights.

9. Enjoy a Christmas Walk up Arthur’s Seat

If you want a break from the bustling markets and holiday crowds, take a refreshing walk up Arthur’s Seat for a stunning view of the city’s Christmas lights from above. The crisp winter air, combined with the beautiful scenery, makes it a peaceful and rewarding way to spend a winter’s day in Edinburgh.

10. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Torchlight Procession

Although technically part of the New Year celebrations, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay often kicks off in late December with the Torchlight Procession. Hundreds of participants carry flaming torches through the streets of Edinburgh, creating a mesmerizing river of light as the procession makes its way to Calton Hill. It’s a spectacular sight and a perfect way to transition from Christmas to New Year celebrations.

11. Explore Festive Light Displays

Edinburgh goes all out with its Christmas light displays. Aside from George Street, other parts of the city light up during the holidays.

• The Royal Botanic Garden: Experience Christmas at the Botanics light trail, where you’ll walk through twinkling tunnels of light, illuminated sculptures, and themed displays set against the natural beauty of the garden.
• Castle of Light: Edinburgh Castle puts on a spectacular light show during the Christmas season, where its ancient walls are illuminated with stunning projections that tell stories of Scotland’s history.

12. Take a Christmas Day Swim in the Firth of Forth

For the brave-hearted, why not join in the traditional Christmas Day Swim at Portobello Beach? Every year, locals take a quick dip in the icy waters of the Firth of Forth to raise money for charity. It’s a refreshing (and chilly!) way to celebrate Christmas morning.

From twinkling markets and dazzling light displays to traditional concerts and festive dining experiences, Christmas in Edinburgh offers a magical blend of activities and experiences for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or a romantic winter escape, Edinburgh’s festive charm is bound to leave you with unforgettable memories of the holiday season.