This winter, there’s plenty going on in Leith and Newhaven to get the whole family feeling festive.
Get ready to wrap up warm and enjoy the excitement of Christmas in Leith and Newhaven. From festive craft workshops and meeting Santa, to following a sparkling festive trail, there’s lots going on to make special memories this festive season.
Yule Love Winter Trail
Coming on 26 November 2026, the Yule Love Winter Trail will see Leith Walk, Leith and Newhaven spectacular lit up in a new after-dark festive trail. The full route and details will be announced shortly.
Newhaven Winter Carnival
This winter, take part in the first Newhaven Winter Carnival. The event includes a parade, both on foot and by bike, from Coalie Park to the Heart of Newhaven and finishes with a celebration at the Heart with food and circus performances. Registration is required to take part in the parade.
Newhaven Winter Carnival takes place on 28 November 2026.
Family Festive Make
Running as part of Leith Creative Trail, Edinburgh Open Workshop is getting into the festive spirit with a special day of seasonal making, offering families the chance to make something unique in the run-up to Christmas.
Free Festive Making for Families includes making giant cardboard crackers and decorating colourful cracker crowns. The morning will also feature a visit from the Travelling Gallery, bringing its touring contemporary art exhibition to the workshop.
Sessions will run every 30 minutes. Activities are free, but advance booking is required.
Join Family Festive Make on 28 November 2026.
Light up Leith
The annual Light Up Leith living advent calendar will be lighting up the windows of homes and businesses across the area. Wander the real life advent calendar and discover a trail of decorated and illuminated windows revealed daily.
Light Up Leith runs from 01 to 24 December 2026.
Leith Christmas Lights Switch On
Come along to the Kirkgate at the Foot of Leith Walk to see the Leith Christmas Lights Switch On.
The event, which starts at 4.30pm, also includes some festive carol singing.
Leith Christmas Lights Switch On is on 03 December 2026.
Santa’s Grotto at Ocean Terminal
Santa’s Grotto will be setting up its temporary home on the 2nd floor of Ocean Terminal. Children will be able to meet the man himself and take home an age appropriate gift. Relaxed sessions with extra time will be available.
All visits must be booked in advance.
See Santa at Ocean Terminal between 03 and 24 December 2026.
Santa at the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage
For one day only, Santa is visiting the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage to spread some festive cheer.
Children can enjoy a private visit with Santa, share their Christmas wishes and take a photo together. Each child will receive a themed gift to take home. Advance booking required.
Visit Santa at the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage on 05 December 2026.
Find more festive events in Leith and Newhaven and beyond
