Edinburgh’s festive calendar is packed with a tapestry of special experiences, from ancient traditions to modern spectacles.
Edinburgh never settles for an ordinary festive season. When winter descends, Scotland’s capital transforms into a stage for unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re wandering through illuminated history, learning new skills, dancing into the New Year, or simply soaking up the seasonal atmosphere, the city offers a winter celebration that is uniquely and unmistakably Edinburgh.
Here’s a look at some of the most remarkable celebrations lighting up the city’s festive season.
Candlelight concerts at St Giles’ Cathedral
When night falls on the Royal Mile, 12th century St Giles’ Cathedral becomes a sanctuary of shimmering candlelight. Step inside and the outside world dissolves into a warm haze of flickering flames and soaring melodies.
Running throughout the festive period, these special concerts pair classical scores and contemporary arrangements with the cathedral’s ethereal acoustics. Whether you’re a devoted music lover or simply seeking a quiet, magical escape, they offer a moment of wonder during the season’s busyness.
A skyline illuminated at Castle of Light
As winter deepens, Edinburgh Castle swaps its battle-scared position for a luminous makeover. Taking place each year from the end of November, Castle of Light transforms the ancient fortress into a living artwork, with spectacular projections and dazzling displays.
Wander the ramparts on this after-dark trail and experience immersive soundscapes and mesmerising installations. It’s a fantastic way to see one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks alive with colour, sound and imagination.
Festive masterclasses at Edinburgh New Town Cookery School
You know the festive season has arrived when the warming scent of cinnamon fills the air. For the perfect way to satisfy all sweet tooths, award-winning Edinburgh New Town Cookery School offer festive baking sessions that are part learning and part indulgence.
Under the guidance of expert tutors, you’ll craft seasonal showstoppers – think mince pies, chocolate yule log and elegant edible gifts – all while picking up insider techniques that’ll elevate your home baking long after the decorations have come down.
Winter waves at Lost Shore Surf Resort
Edinburgh may not strike you as a surfing destination, but at Lost Shore Surf Resort, the acclaimed inland surf haven boasting Europe’s largest wavepool, winter brings unexpected delights.
During the festive period, the resort introduces special festive-themed events, mixing wave-riding with cosy Christmas events. Between surf sessions, visitors can enjoy winter markets, themed activities and warming food and drink, all set against the background of rolling waves. It’s an energising twist on the classic Christmas outing.
Arctic ambience at the Polar Ice Bar
For a dash of frosty glamour, the Polar Ice Bar on the city centre’s George Street, offers an unforgettable chill-themed outing. Wrapped in jackets and gloves, guests sip cocktails served in carved ice glasses while surrounded by sculpted frozen décor.
Glittering polar-themed installations make the space feel like a slice of the Arctic, right here in the Scottish capital. It’s quirky, cool and irresistibly photogenic.
Lighting up the city with the Torchlight Procession
Taking place on 29 December and marking the start of Edinburgh’s renowned Hogmanay celebrations, The Torchlight Procession is most of the city’s most moving winter traditions.
15,000 torchbearers weave through the city in a fiery river of light, accommodated by performers, drummer, pipes and Shetland Vikings. With both a celebratory and reflective atmosphere, it’s a stirring way to usher in the year’s end.
Ring in the New Year at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party
No city does New Year quite like Edinburgh. The world famous Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party transforms Princes Street into a giant open-air celebration, complete with live music, DJ sets, performers, funfair attractions and the electric buzz of thousands of revellers from around the world.
As midnight approaches, the castle-top firework display ignites the sky in a blaze of colour, marking the transition into the New Year with a flourish worthy of Scotland’s capital.
From music and shows to food and drink and shopping, there’s lots going on in Edinburgh this festive season and beyond.
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
