Edinburgh Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Edinburgh and surrounding areas
Edinburgh unfolds the holiday season with dramatic Christmas lights and Christmas markets lining the Royal Mile and Princes Street. Experience Edinburgh's Christmas and the Hogmanay Street Party, and join the Torchlight Procession for spectacular seasonal moments beneath historic castle views. The city’s holiday attractions include family activities, seasonal festivals, and lively markets that pair traditional fare with contemporary events, creating a festive atmosphere framed by monuments and illuminated streets.
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Christmas Markets
21 eventsFestive transformation of Edinburgh's historic city centre
Christmas Shows
18 eventsA classic Cinderella pantomime for the holiday season.
Christmas Parties
10 eventsBreakfast with Santa and complimentary Fort Douglas access.
Christmas Lights
9 eventsDual winter wonderlands with ice rink and observation wheels.
Other Christmas Activities
24 eventsWorld-famous New Year's Eve street party and fireworks
Editor's Picks (6)
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Edinburgh's Christmas
Festive transformation of Edinburgh's historic city centre
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Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party
World-famous New Year's Eve street party and fireworks
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Glasgow's Winter Wonderland
(Glasgow)
Dual winter wonderlands with ice rink and observation wheels.
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Dundee's Traditional Christmas Offering
(Dundee)
Traditional Christmas celebration with free events
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Edinburgh Christmas Market
Historic city centre setting with castle views
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Edinburgh's Torchlight Procession
Historic Torchlight Procession through Old Town
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Also Near Edinburgh
Musselburgh
See all in Musselburgh →Dunfermline
See all in Dunfermline →Wishaw
See all in Wishaw →Stirling
- The Golden Lion Festive Program
- Santa's Grotto at Dobbies Stirling
- Dunblane Centre Christmas Craft Fayre
Edinburgh Christmas FAQ
The biggest events include the Castle of Light projection show at Edinburgh Castle, the East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market, and the Torchlight Procession that kicks off Hogmanay celebrations. These events draw large crowds and highlight the festive season in the city.
Edinburgh’s annual gift of a Norwegian spruce Christmas tree on The Mound symbolizes historic Scottish-Norwegian ties. The city also celebrates Hogmanay with unique events like the Torchlight Procession and street parties, blending local culture with festive traditions.
The city center areas around The Mound, Victoria Street, The Royal Mile, and George Street are known for their festive light displays. These neighborhoods offer a mix of public decorations and neighborhood displays to enjoy on foot.
East Princes Street Gardens and St Andrew Square are the primary locations for Christmas markets featuring local makers, artisan vendors, and festive food stalls. These central spots showcase a wide variety of crafts and seasonal treats.
Enjoy free public light displays around the city center, attend the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on The Mound, or explore festive window displays along Princes Street. Many markets and events offer free entry, making them accessible for all budgets.
Family-friendly options include visiting Santa’s Grotto at St Andrew Square, enjoying festive rides at the Christmas market, and exploring interactive light trails like Christmas at the Botanics. These activities provide fun and festive experiences for children.