Edinburgh’s Christmas

During the festive season Edinburgh becomes a sparkling winter wonderland. Whether you want to embrace all things traditional, or seek new ways of celebrating the holidays, there’s no shortage of things to do to keep all the family merry and bright.

From 17 November 2023 until 06 January 2024, Edinburgh’s Christmas will see a wide variety of family-friendly festive activities and events taking place in the city centre. There will be four main sites to explore – East and West Princes Street Gardens, George Street and St Andrew Square.

Edinburgh Christmas Market, East Princes Street Gardens

With the soaring Scott Monument and the city’s majestic skyline as its backdrop, East Princes Street Gardens hosts the traditional Christmas Market.

Free to enter, shoppers can browse around 70 stalls featuring everything from clothing and jewellery to handmade gifts for the home. And when hunger calls, the tempting aromas from the various local and international food and drink stalls are sure to tempt you.

The market is also where Scotland’s largest ferris-wheel, the Big Wheel is found. Standing at 46m tall, it offers a unique view of the city. Thrill seekers will also be able to enjoy an exciting selection of rides including a Helter Skelter and Starflyer.

The Christmas Market is open daily (excluding 25 December) from 18 November 2023 to 06 January 2024.

Festive Family Funfair, West Princes Street Gardens

Home to the Festive Family Funfair, West Princes Street Gardens will have rides and attractions, as well as a variety of festive food and drink stalls.

There will also be plenty of opportunities for festive photos, with festive illuminations, including the Winter Windows Schools Art Project and Garden’s Cottage. Don’t miss a trip to the garden’s Ross Bandstand will be holding a variety of community-focused and family-friendly events.

West Princes Street Gardens is open daily (excluding 25 December) from 18 November 2023 to 06 January 2024.

Ice Rink, George Street and Castle Street

The popular Ice Rink returns to George Street with an undercover rink, so you can enjoy the fun no matter the weather. Toddler skating sessions and relaxed sessions (with softer lighting and sound) are available on designated dates. Afterwards, warm up with a hot drink from the food stalls.

George Street will also have traditional fairground rides and food and gift stalls, while the LocalMotive Castle Street Christmas Market (open 18 November to 24 December) is a great place to stock up on Christmas gifts.

George Street Christmas Market will be open from 18 November 2023 to 06 January 2024 (excluding Christmas Day)

Visit Santa, St Andrew Square

Santa and his elves will be setting up Santa’s Stories on St Andrew Square – ready to treat all those on the nice list with a magical storytelling experience.

The Square also welcome Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness, featuring the Kindness Tree and Gift Donation point, dedicated to helping those most at need.

Santa’s Stories is available from 18 November to 24 December. St Andrew Square will be open from 18 November 2023 to 06 January 2024 (excluding Christmas Day).

Discover other things to do in Edinburgh this Christmas:

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Winter light trails in Edinburgh, Lothians and Borders

As the nights draw in, brighten them up with a walk round an enchanting illuminated winter trail.

Shows coming to Edinburgh this Christmas

From the side-splitting comedy pantomime to festive music, there’s a dazzling line-up of shows to choose from in Edinburgh this holiday season.

Santa’s Grottos in Edinburgh

Santa Claus in coming to town, and to Edinburgh!

Top family events in Edinburgh this Christmas

From ice skating to shopping at a traditional Christmas market, explore the top family-friendly things to do in Edinburgh this Christmas.

Enjoy festive afternoon tea in Edinburgh

Indulge in the traditional pastime of afternoon tea, with a festive twist!

Explore Edinburgh’s Christmas markets

Interesting and unique markets where you can find that perfect present and get in the festive mood!