From magical light trails and festive theatre to visits with Santa and hands-on Christmas festivities, Edinburgh has plenty to keep the whole family entertained this festive season.
Whether you’re planning a special day out with little ones or looking for new traditional to enjoy together, discover some of the best family events taking place in Edinburgh this Christmas.
Add some sparkle with a light trail
enjoying the beauty of nature at night
Edinburgh really does sparkle during the festive season, and this year is no exception.
For an evening of wonder, enchantment, and spectacular colours, explore Five Sisters Zoo Illuminations and enjoy their mesmerising light display – and don’t miss their markets with crafts, gifts and festive treats. Wander through Christmas at the Botanics and experience sparkling tunnels of light, gasp at trees drenched in jewel-like colour and marvel at dancing waterside reflection.
Explore more in winter light trails in Edinburgh and Lothians
Have a royal time at the Palace of Holyroodhouse
exploring royal history.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King’s official residence in Scotland, will be decking the halls with stunning Christmas wreaths, garlands, sparkling lights and Christmas trees.
As part of their seasonal programme there are a selection of events on offer. For adults, Carols at the Palace offers visitors the chance to see the beautifully decorated State Apartments before a festive concert in the Great Gallery, a glass of wine and mince pies. While Christmas Activity Day will have arts and crafts activities and a festive music performance for all the family to enjoy.
Exploring Christmas traditions over the centuries, Descriptive Tour: A Royal Christmas is designed for visually impaired visitors.
Events run on selected dates from 19 November to 04 January 2027.
Fun for all the family at Dalkeith Country Park
a festive family day out
Around 10 miles from Edinburgh city centre, WinterFest at Dalkeith Country Park is bursting with festive activities for all the family.
The centrepiece of festivities is the eco-friendly Skating Rink. Surrounded by twinkling lights, glide across the ice or skate the night away at one of the musical Skate & Shake sessions. Gets busy with Wreath Making Workshops. Take the kids to Meet Santa where little ones can enjoy a heart-warming festive story brought to life through song by Santa’s magical singing elf, before meeting Santa up close.
WinterFest at Dalkeith Country Park is on from 27 November to 10 January 2027.
Celebrate Christmas at Dynamic Earth
embarking on a festive adventure
Set off on an Arctic adventure at Dynamic Earth this December, where families can embark on a festive journey to find Santa. Along the way, meet an elf, discover more about the polar regions and help a lost animal find its way home before enjoying a special visit with Santa.
Beyond the grotto, festive family films in the 6k Planetarium and seasonal science activities offer even more ways to enjoy the holidays together.
Christmas at Dynamic Earth runs on selected dates from 05 to 30 December 2026.
Enjoy storytime at Gladstone’s Land
getting lost in the magic of Christmas tales
Settle down, switch off and immerse yourself in the spirt of the season with Gladstone’s Land’s Christmas Readings.
Offering something for all the family, there’s the classic Charles Dickens: A Christmas Carol, while youngsters will be captivated by the likes of The Snowman and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, and Twas the Night Before Christmas.
Events run on selected dates from 01 to 22 December 2026.
Step aboard a former floating palace
both sea and land lovers.
Feel full of the festive spirit with festive cream tea, and spiced scones as Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace welcomes visitors to Christmas Aboard the Britannia.
Explore the State Apartments, where the Royal Family spent holidays and honeymoons, and entertained prime ministers and presidents. Head below decks to explore the Crew’s Quarters where the 220 Royal Yachtsmen would work, sleep and relax during their travels all over the world. Discover stories of life aboard with an audio guide, also available in a children’s version. Remember to keep an eye open for all the corgis in in their festive outfits!
Christmas Aboard the Britannia takes place from 13 November to 03 January 2027.
Join in the Edinburgh Santa Fun Run & Walk
having fun while raising vital funds for children’s charity, When You Wish Upon a Star.
Don your Santa outfit (included in entry fee) and get ready to run, jog or walk around the 2.5km circuit of West Princes Street Gardens at the Edinburgh Santa Fun Run & Walk.
Every penny you raise will help bring moments of joy to seriously ill children this Christmas. All pre-registered Santas & Elves will receive a Santa suit or Elf hat & finishers medal!
The Edinburgh Santa Fun Run & Walk takes place on 06 December 2026.
Be spellbound by MagicFest
those who love mind-boggling fun!
Edinburgh International Magic Festival, also known as MagicFest, is back for 2026 with a bumper programme of shows and events.
A thrilling mix of magical shows, events and workshops, audiences can expect captivating performances from both new and established magicians. From cutting-edge illusions and mind-reading to mesmerising sleight-of-hand and edge-of-your-seat tricks, this is one Christmas cracker not to be missed.
MagicFest runs from 19 to 30 December 2026.
Enjoy festive fun at Conifox Adventure Park
Make magical memories at the Conifox Christmas Experience, where families can step into a festive world filled with Christmas characters, seasonal activities and a visit with Santa. This year brings a brand-new Christmas Village, complete with decorated shopfronts and carol singers, alongside favourite experiences including cookie decorating with Mrs Claus, the Magic Forest, reindeer-themed adventures and a toy workshop. Children can also visit the Make-a-Teddy Factory and take home a special gift.
The 2026 Christmas Experience takes place on selected dates from 29 November to December 2026.
Learn new skills with Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy
getting into the festive spirit, while picking up some new tips.
If you’re looking to learn or improve your skills in the kitchen, why not sign-up for one of the festive dining and baking courses at Edinburgh New Town Cookery School.
Courses include the Christmas Baking Class, where you’ll learn how to make a range of crowd-pleasing bakes; tips on how to produce delicious savoury and sweet canapes with Christmas Canapés Demonstration, and Gluten Free Christmas Baking, where participants will bake a variety of gluten free bakes, including mince pies and a Christmas cake. For young bakers, Mini
Courses run on select dates throughout December 2026.
Christmas Themed Events
Looking for more Christmas themed events? Discover What’s On in Edinburgh this Christmas.
