It’s the most wonderful time of the year and we are delighted to welcome back Christedinmas to Edinburgh. Our city has a magical feel all year round but it’s made extra special with the addition of festive events, Christmas-themed theatre, festive markets, shows and more. Christmas in Edinburgh runs for seven magical weeks from 17 November 2023 – 6 January 2024 and as usual, the city comes alive with locals and visitors soaking up the atmosphere. Get ahead of the crowd and book festive accommodation in PREMIER SUITES Edinburgh, a comfortable, flexible space for a family or friends festive break this year.
East Princes Steet Christmas Market
Edinburgh has some of the most impressive Christmas markets in all of the EU and people come from all over the world to experience it for themselves. Nestled in the heart of the heart of the historic city centre, East Princes Street Gardens hosts a traditional Christmas Market. Free to enter and no booking required, the market has over 70 stalls with some of the best local and international sellers represented. You’ll find handmade gifts, jewellery, toys, cosmetics, textiles and so much more selling things you’d never find on the high street. There are plenty of tasty treats and delicious drinks to keep you going while you shop too.
East Princes Street Gardens will also be home to the Big Wheel, Scotland’s largest Ferris wheel standing at 46m tall offering a unique view of the market and the city. You find the magical Santa Train travelling through an illuminated winter wonderland with the Helter Skelter and the Starflyer ready for thrill seekers. It’s a wonderful day out for couples, friends and families and is sure to be a festive visit you won’t forget.
West Princes Street Gardens Family Funfair
West Princes Street Gardens are family central this year with a range of fun and wholesome activities for your little ones. There are a selection of funfair rides and attractions as well as delicious festive food and drink to keep everyone happy. Enjoy an illuminated walk enjoying views of Edinburgh Castle and Old Town and enjoy installations and stop-offs along the way like Edinburgh’s Nativity Scene and Gardeners’ Cottage. You’ll see the Winter Windows Schools Art Project and dozens of festive illuminations. The Ross Bandstand in the gardens boasts a festive programme with live choirs, ceilidhs, silent discos, Edinburgh Diwali: Festival of Light, Santa Paws and the Santa Fun Run. It’s the perfect place for a family day out and for some festive photos for your album.
Christmas at the Botanics
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh play host to one of the most beautiful festive events each year. The Christmas at the Botanics light trail is for people of all ages and abilities. There will be light shows, dazzling illuminated tunnels and plenty of opportunities to pick up some tasty seasonal snacks from a variety of street vendors. It’s a calmer, quieter way to celebrate Christmas with loved ones, admiring trees and plants lit up in vivid colours and projections. Christmas at the Botanics are a magnificent light display which gets bigger and better every year. Booking is required and it’s a popular event so buy your tickets soon to avoid disappointment.
Ice Skating in Edinburgh
This year, George Street will be home to the spectacular Edinburgh’s Christmas Ice Rink, a must-do on any festive schedule. This year, the rink is bigger than ever with plenty of cover so you can skate rain, hail or shine. Practice your pirouette or walk around like Bambi on ice at a family-friendly ice skating afternoon, suitable for most ages. Skaters and spectators can warm up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate from the nearby stalls, take a ride on the vintage funfair rides, and enjoy even more gift stalls on Geoge Street. Local Motive, an organisation supporting small and independent businesses, will also bring their Ethical & Scottish Christmas Fair to Castle Street from 18 November to 24 December.
Christmas in Edinburgh is truly magical and must be seen to be believed. Book accommodation at PREMIER SUITES Edinburgh on our website to enjoy our lowest available rates and exclusive access to our festive special offers. We look forward to welcoming you and your loved ones for a festive trip you won’t forget.
