Christmas Offers and Things to Do In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a magical city. With castles and parks, museums and shopping, the list of things to do is never-ending. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the festive season, your list of things to do in Edinburgh just got a little longer with the addition of Christmas markets, pantos and other festive events. Before you start planning your break, book the ideal accommodation in Edinburgh. PREMIER SUITES serviced apartments are located on Fountain Court Edinburgh, a short walk from tourist attractions, shopping and theatres. Our spacious, flexible accommodation in Edinburgh is ideal for families, friends, and groups so you can explore the city like a local.

Christmas Lights Switch On

One of the first events in the festive calendar is the official switching on of the Christmas Lights and Christmas tree. It kicks off the countdown until 25^th December with displays of thousands of twinkling lights and over-the-top displays. George Street is one of the major Christmas light installations and shows, Light Night. This popular event is free for everyone to enjoy and features choirs from all over Scotland. The finale of the day is a spectacular fireworks display marking the official switch-on of Edinburgh’s Christmas lights, complete with a flying visit from the man in red. They make the long dark evenings seem a little brighter. Join the city on 17^th November for this very special event.

Christmas Market in Edinburgh

We’re spoiled in Edinburgh when it comes to Christmas shopping. We have the best shopping options in Scotland, and during the festive season, we have not one, but two of the largest and most beautiful Christmas markets in the country! Christmas Markets run from 17^th November until 6^th January 2024. Following last year’s attendance of 2.5 million visitors, the festivities have been spread over 4 main locations.

• • East Princes Street Gardens is where you’ll find the traditional European Christmas market. There will be 70 market stalls, the Big Wheel, Starflyer and Helter Skelter here.

• • West Princes Street Gardens is best for families with additional funfair rides and family-friendly attractions.

• • The Scottish Christmas Fair is in George Street this year complete with an ice rink and vintage funfair rides.

• • You’ll find Santa and the Santa’s Stories group sessions at St Andrews Square and this activity may need advance booking.

Christmas Theatre in Edinburgh

We’re a creative bunch here in Edinburgh and many people travel for shows in many excellent venues. Wicked the Musical, an award-winning, world-famous production, will fly back into the Edinburgh Playhouse from Thursday 7 December 2023 for 5 weeks only, If you’re lucky enough to have booked accommodation in PREMIER SUITES Edinburgh, you may see some familiar faces off-stage! The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan arrives at Festival Theatre from 25^th November until 31^st December 2023 and promises to be a swashbuckling adventure for all ages. The Snow Queen runs in the magnificent Lyceum Theatre from 23^rd November until 31^st December 2023 and despite the name, it’s sure to warm your heart.

Hogmanay in Edinburgh

Hogmanay, one of the biggest and best New Year’s celebrations in the world, returns in 2023 and shows the world how to party into 2024. This year Pulp play a special concert in West Princes Street Gardens, there are light processions, silent discos, candlelit concerts and of course, the best street party in the UK. Celebrating its 30^th anniversary this year, Hogmanay Street Party promises to be bigger and better than ever in 2023 with live music, giant screens, street performers, pipers, drummers, funfair attractions and delicious street food & drink throughout the arena to create a fantastic atmosphere to ring in the New Year. Tickets are available and in demand, as is accommodation in Edinburgh for the best night of the year. 

The best way to celebrate Christmas and the New Year is with friends and family. Spend quality time with your loved ones in our 2-bedroom suites, because Christmas is Better When Families are Together.  Enjoy a cosy night in Edinburgh with our Festive Cheers package, complete with a chilled bottle of Processo and a late checkout. Our packages are exclusively available when you book directly on our website or with one of our friendly team.